Volunteer groups get a boost

THIRTY-SIX central Victorian community organisations have received Federal Government funding to help support their volunteers.

The volunteer grants of $1000 to $5000 totalled almost $140,000 in the region, with recipients including the Veterans Motorcycle Club, Bendigo Family and Financial Services and Eaglehawk Community House.

The Veterans Motorcycle Club’s Jay Lindley said the money would be put to good use establishing a Coalition Veterans Country Retreat known as Central Station.

“With the increasing need for to returned service personnel and their families, providing a place that is welcoming and comfortable is of the highest importance,” he said.

At the Eaglehawk Community House, Tracey Moss said the grant would have multiple benefits.

“These funds will allow us to deliver more training to our volunteers and will support them in continuing our food relief program,” she said.

Similar efforts will be supported at BFFS to enable the continuation of a food and care package distribution program for their clients in need of assistance, according to general manager Jenny Elvey.

Other successful groups include the Bendigo Queer Arts Festival, Lifeline Central Victoria and Mallee, and more.

Federal Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters, said volunteers played an important role in the community, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our volunteers and their organisations do a great job in creating a sense of belonging and social inclusion, and building stronger local communities,” she said.

“Over the past 18 months, they have made sure that vulnerable members of the community are cared for.

“They show incredible commitment towards their organisations and take pride in their work.”