Three volunteer groups in East Gippsland have secured grants from the Federal Government to support their response to bushfire.
Local MP Darren Chester has announced Sarsfield Recreation Reserve Committee of Management would receive $5000 to buy supplies to help with its ongoing bushfire recovery work.
“This money will be used to buy office equipment to record and manage ongoing bushfire recovery and tools to help with the clean-up and rebuild,” Mr Chester said.
“There’s also enough to help compensate volunteers for their petrol costs as they deliver care packages and equipment to those who need it. Some the funds will also be spent on kitchen equipment so those volunteers are looked after when they take a break from helping others.
“The Wairewa Fire Brigade was also successful with its grant application. The brigade will receive $3000 to buy and install a 5000 gallon water tank.
“Eagle Point Landcare Coastcare Group will receive $4990 to buy a watering trailer fitted with a 1000 litre tank to water plants and can also be used for fire-fighting.”
These three volunteer groups were among 16 across Gippsland to successfully apply for funding through the 2019-20 Volunteer Grants program. The other local recipients include:
- Bairnsdale Neighbourhood House, which will receive $5000 to buy new computer equipment
- Omeo and District Agricultural and Pastoral Society, which will also get $5000 to buy new computer equipment
- Tambo Bluff Landcare Coastcare Group, which has been approved to get $1200 to buy gardening and protective equipment, and
- Twin Rivers Men’s Shed Association, which has been granted $4750 for new storage equipment, folding tables and stackable chairs, kitchen equipment, a portable gazebo and first aid training.
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.