Seventeen Gippsland not-for-profit community organisations will benefit from more than $63,000 in funding as part of the Federal Government’s 2023-24 Volunteer Grants program.
Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will assist successful community organisations in supporting the efforts of their volunteers, enabling the inclusion of vulnerable people and promoting awareness to increase participation in volunteering.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the grants serve as a small recognition of the dedication and effort put in by the local volunteers.
“While the work of our volunteers may be unpaid, it is not unrecognised,” Mr Chester said.
“From fighting bushfires and caring for the environment to supporting people in our community and running local events, the value of the work done by our volunteers is immeasurable.
“Through the Volunteer Grants program, we can give them a helping hand and make their roles as volunteers easier and more enjoyable.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community, and by continuing to help each other and work together, we are building a stronger and safer Gippsland.”
Lakeside Rockers Gippsland, Maffra Dramatic Society, Sale Men’s Shed Incorporated, Devon North Men’s Shed Incorporated, Tarra Valley Community Group Incorporated and Tinamba Public Hall are among the community organisations announced as successful 2023-24 Volunteer Grants recipients.
In the leadup to National Volunteer Week, Mr Chester met with members from Lakeside Rockers Gippsland, which received $3000 in funding and will support the community group in purchasing a range of equipment.
“Sale-based social dance group Lakeside Rockers currently relies on volunteer members to supply and utilise their own personal equipment, such as marquees, when performing in the local community,” Mr Chester said.
“Thanks to funding from the Volunteer Grants program, Lakeside Rockers will be able to purchase items such as a marquee, an urn, trestle tables, and eskies. These resources will enable the group to expand their demonstrations to new locations and assist volunteers in enriching the club’s culture and community involvement.
“Volunteers devote a lot of time raising money to buy much-needed equipment and undertake a variety of activities. Through the Volunteer Grants program, we can give them a helping hand and make their roles as volunteers easier and more enjoyable.”
