24 November, 2021
Western Downs Regional Council is backing local community groups to build a cleaner and greener future for the region with more than $62,000 allocated as part of this year’s Recycle Market Enviro Grants Program.
Five community groups have received funding under the program, which is about promoting sustainability across the Western Downs.
Council Spokesperson for Planning, Environment and Agribusiness Councillor Andrew Smith said the grants program was a fantastic outcome for the region which promotes the importance of being environmentally friendly.
“We are committed to empowering our local communities to develop new initiatives for their towns and the Recycle Market Enviro Grants Program is about supporting ideas that promote a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious future for the region,” Cr Smith said.
“This program is made possible thanks to our residents upcycling second-hand goods at our Recycle Market Shops at Dalby, Chinchilla, and Miles Waste and Recycling Centres.
“Forty percent of the money raised at our tip shops is reinvested into this Program, which is delivered in partnership with Council’s waste and recycling contractor Iolar Operational Services.
“This is a great example of government, industry and community working together for the greater good of the region, and it’s great to see so many fantastic initiatives put forward as part of this year’s program.”
Moonie State School Parents and Citizen’s Association member Benita Bensch said receiving the Enviro Grants funding would make a real difference to the children of Moonie State School, and the wider community.
“This grant will help fund stage one of a community garden at the Moonie State School, which will be open to not only the children, but the whole of the Moonie community,” Ms Bensch said.
“Our vision is a community garden which will promote health and wellbeing and provide an educational experience to everyone who comes to enjoy it. When completed we aim to have a kitchen garden, bush tucker garden, sensory garden, calming water feature and outdoor meeting spaces.
“The support of Council and Iolar Operational Services is hugely important in allowing us to undertake this project, and I encourage other community groups around the region to take advantage of funding opportunities when they are available – the application process is not arduous, and the outcome is worth it to be able to forge ahead with a project that will benefit your community.”
Moonie State School Principal JB Mohr said that having a quality physical environment is paramount to quality teaching and learning.
“This community garden project will contribute to the children’s wellbeing, creativity and developing independence. It will serve to connect the educational programs inside the school gates to the active contributions, interests and skills of all our children and families,” Mr Mohr said.
2021 Enviro Grants Recipients
- Chinchilla District Landcare Group Inc – $19,500 to tackle Mother of Millions in the Stockyard Creek/ Rocky Creek Catchment
- Jandowae Primary P&C Association – $1,664 for a shade sail for Prep and Grade 1 and bore cover
- Meandarra Bowls Club Inc – $11,000 for solar panels
- Moonie State School Parents and Citizens’ Association – $20,000 for the Moonie Community Garden Stage 1
- Myall Park Botanic Garden Ltd – $9,987 for solar panels on the gallery roof
