Pambula Men’s Shed purchased welding equipment to train members in metalwork and carry out metalwork activities.
Local community groups are encouraged to apply for funding under the ClubGRANTS program when it officially opens on Tuesday 1 March and can submit an Expression of Interest now.
Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to $10,000 for projects and services that contribute to the wellbeing of local communities.
“Past ClubGRANT recipients include Pambula Men’s Shed, which purchased welding equipment to train members in metalwork and carry out metalwork activities in an on-site welding shipping container and Tulgeen Industries purchased a ride-on mower to maintain its large Bermagui facility,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.
“University of the Third Age (U3A) Sapphire Coast bought a laptop for their Seniors’ Computer Group to upskill older members in computer technology so they could confidently use essential services such as online shopping and banking and get connected with friends and family.
“To help increase COVID-19 safety compliance, the Sapphire Coast Horse Trail Riders’ Club purchased handwash stations, soap and paper towel dispensers, and no touch rubbish bins. The club also bought two additional UHF radios so the lead rider, trail boss, first aid officer and drag rider could stay connected and provide additional safety in an emergency.
“A ClubGRANT funded a thermal imagery camera for the Towamba Rural Fire Brigade, to help firefighters navigate dark smoke-filled settings during a bushfire crisis and Merimbula Vinnies provided toys, hampers, and cinema and grocery vouchers to bushfire-affected individuals and families in Eden and surrounding communities at Christmas.
“Funding provided to the Eden Community Access Centre was used to construct the Westside Community garden shed, to keep gardening equipment and produce secure and encourage talks and barbecue’s on-site.”
Chairperson of the Bega Valley ClubGRANTS Committee, Grant Taylor of the Bermagui Country Club said $101,392 in funding was shared by 29 recipients last year.
“We understand how important these grants are for the many not-for-profit community groups, sporting organisations and charities in the Bega Valley, and we know from experience it is money well spent,” he said.
Funding for the Bega Valley Shire is provided by five registered clubs – Bermagui Country Club, Club Bega, Club Sapphire Merimbula, Eden Fishermen’s Recreation Club and the Merimbula RSL.
ClubGRANTS, managed by Bega Valley Shire Council, is a shared State Government and club industry program, funded by a gaming machine tax on registered clubs with gaming machine profits in excess of $1 million.
Applications under the ClubsGRANTS Category 1 funding scheme are open until 2 May.
If you are interested in receiving information about upcoming community grants, register your details.
