Telco champions those raising the bar

OPTUS has recognised two locals making a difference in the community, awarding each with a $10,000 grant to continue their work.

The Raise The Bar Community Grants seek to champion the unsung heroes of regional Australia, showing relentless dedication to supporting and upholding their community.

A total of $20,000 was pledged by Optus to be awarded to one individual and one organisation for raising the bar in Ballarat.

The nomination process saw over 240 Ballarat residents submit their stories of local volunteers, heroism and generosity.

Access consultant and disability advocate Heidi Biggin was awarded $10,000 in the grant’s individual category.

“Ninety-five per cent of the advocacy work I’m doing at the moment is voluntary, so winning the $10,000 will allow me to basically stay afloat and continue my work in the community,” Ms Biggin said.

“I would love to be able to expand on some of the initiatives we’ve championed in Ballarat, to the whole state such as inputting service animal relief areas in major train stations and entertainment spaces.

“And to continue to work with businesses and councils to show how they can be better allies to people with disabilities in the community.”

The Grampians Health Wellness Centre won the organisation category for its work providing therapy and service for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

“At the Grampians Health Wellness Centre, we are dedicated to providing vital supportive care programs, free of charge, to oncology patients in the Ballarat and Grampians region,” centre wellness program manager Simone Noelker said.

“Our goal is to ensure patients receive the best care possible during their cancer experience, without the added financial burden.

“Winning the $10,000 grant from Optus will significantly boost our fundraising efforts and allow us to continue providing supportive care services. It will also enable us to expand our programs, including offering a new initiative focusing on addressing the fear of recurrence – a critical concern for many patients.”

Optus local general manager for Victoria and Tasmania Jayson Grool said the company has a commitment to strengthening local connections and the region’s future.

“The Raise The Bar Community Grants have been a fantastic way to celebrate and support the connections that make Ballarat such a dynamic and special place,” Mr Grool said.

“At Optus, we’re passionate about helping to keep Ballarat connected – whether it’s helping families stay in touch, empowering businesses with digital tools, or improving access to the latest technology across the region.”