Twenty-two community organisations in the Forbes Shire have received record funding from the last round of the Department of Social Security Volunteer Equipment Grants Program.
A combined total of $102,400 has been awarded under the Federal Government program, which is aimed at supporting not- for-profit community groups to buy badly needed equipment to support their work. Applicants can apply for up to $5,000.
On Tuesday, Forbes Shire Council hosted a free sausage sizzle for funding recipients, to celebrate the record milestone and acknowledge the hard work of community groups.
More than 30 representatives from local organisations came along to enjoy some lunch and share stories about what the grant means for them.
Forbes North Public School received $5,000, part of which will go towards air conditioning for the canteen.
“The canteen runs five days a week and the lovely ladies in there need to be in a comfortable environment. It’s a work health and safety issue,” said Laurinda Ray.
The Calarie Hall Committee also received $5,000. “You don’t know what it means for us,” said Ann Fisher. “We started out years ago making egg sandwiches to fundraise. This money will help us put heating and cooling in the hall, which will be better for people who want to use it.”
The Men’s Shed, Valley FM Community Radio, Forbes Handicraft Centre, North- side Temple, the Toy Library, the Forbes Band, and the Forbes Historic Machinery Association were also among the grant re- cipients.
Andrew Rawsthorne, Grants Officer at Forbes Council said 53 funding applications (council and community) were approved to a value of $3.2 million this financial year. Another $4 million is potentially coming our way with 38 other applications pending.
Andrew is available to help local organisations with funding applications, and can be contacted at Council on 6850 2300.
By Rochelle Bright