Helping hand for Townsville community groups

Community groups impacted by recent flooding in Townsville will be able to receive face-to-face advice about applying for funding from Queensland’s largest one-off grants program, the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF).

A team from Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation’s (OLGR) Community Benefit Funds Unit will host appointments on March 27 and 28 to assist both past grant recipients and first-time applicants.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart encouraged local not-for-profit groups to request an appointment.

“I know of so many local groups that are the heart and soul of our community and unfortunately have been impacted by flooding,” he said.

“The Government is reaching out to assist them and I’d encourage people to grab that helping hand.”

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the program distributed about $55 million annually to communities across the state.

“This is a special year for GCBF with it hitting the 25 year mark,” she said.

“The team that will help those who need support with applications will include two members of the committee that considers GCBF grants.”

GCBF manager Julie Koplick said OLGR recognised that community groups that had received grants may have found their priorities had changed due to damage or loss of property.

“We’re inviting all flood-affected community groups that have previously been granted GCBF funding to meet with us to discuss their options in regards to submitting a variation to change the purpose of their grants as well as to request an extension to complete their project,” she said.

“We are also encouraging any other not-for-profit local organisations that would like to submit a new grant application to make an appointment to learn more about how a GCBF grant could help them and how to apply.

“Make an appointment to come down and have a chat while we’re in town – we’d love to help you.”

When: Wednesday, 27 March 10.00am – 6.00pm and Thursday, 28 March 8.00am – 6.00pm

Location: Clarion Hotel, Level 3 Conference Room, 201 Sturt Street, Townsville City

These appointments can help you with:

  • Submitting a new application to GCBF Round 101, which closes on 31 May 2019
  • Submitting a variation or extension to your current GCBF grant
  • Acquitting your current GCBF grant
  • Registering your community organisation to be eligible to apply for future GCBF grants
  • Learning more about the GCBF and how to apply.

Bookings are limited, and are now being taken for these free, 30-minute appointments.

To make a booking, contact Senior Grants Officer Siobhan Ketter on (07) 3224 4342 by 3.00pm Monday, 25 March 2019.

Ms Koplick said all community members were also invited to attend a special grants information session on Wednesday, 27 March 2019 at 6.30pm at the Clarion Hotel, to provide an overview of the GCBF program and to answer any questions.

/Public Release. View in full here.