The community of Bengworden is planning to establish a film society to give local residents a new way to spend an evening out without travelling far from home.
Local MP Darren Chester this week announced the Federal Government would provide $5000 to purchase a projector and sound equipment for the newly renovated Bengworden Hall.
“There are around 400 people living in the Bengworden area. The Bengworden Hall and Recreation Reserve Committee wants to establish the film society at the hall to give locals a new entertainment option that’s close to home,” Mr Chester said.
“The equipment will be available to other volunteer groups, such as the CFA and Landcare, to use during community education sessions.”
The Bengworden Hall and Recreation Reserve Committee was among 16 volunteer groups in Gippsland to successfully apply for a grant through the 2019-20 Volunteer Grants program. Other local recipients include:
- Loch Sport Foreshore Committee, which will receive $5000 to buy equipment to clear dead trees and undergrowth,
- Rosedale Lions Club, which has been allocated $5000 for a new gazebo with weights, signage, a defibrillator and a generator, and
- Longford Fire Brigade, which will get $3500 to spend on a defibrillator, a laptop computer, backpacks and polo shirts.
Mr Chester said the grants went a small way to acknowledging the work and commitment of 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.”
The funding announcement coincides with National Volunteer Week, which runs from May 18 to May 24.