Federal funding boost for community groups

Member for Barker Tony Pasin recently visited the Yahl Memorial Hall and the Riding for the Disabled facility in Mount Gambier, to share the good news that each had been awarded a $1000 grant under the Federal Government’s 2023-24 Volunteer Grants Program.

The Yahl Memorial Hall grant will be used to purchase play mats to ensure children who use the hall for play group are protected from the hall’s hard floor, alongside much-needed upgrades to first aid equipment and cleaning equipment.

Meanwhile, Mount Gambier Chapter of the Riding for the Disabled Association will use the grant to provide fuel vouchers for volunteers, purchase a pole saw for essential tree maintenance, and fund a social event to thank and celebrate the contributions volunteers make to this important facility.

Mr Pasin acknowledged the critical role volunteers play in regional communities like those in Barker.

“Volunteering is the heart of regional communities, and supporting volunteer organisations like Yahl Memorial Hall and Riding for the Disabled is crucial to ensuring their ongoing impact,” Mr Pasin said. “These grants help make it easier for volunteers to continue their invaluable work, benefiting the wider community.

“These grants ensure our volunteers have the resources they need to support their communities and continue providing their essential services.”.

The Electorate of Barker received a total of $66,225 for 21 organisations as part of the 2023-2024 Volunteer Grants program, supporting not-for-profit community organisations with essential equipment, training, and resources to aid volunteers in their work.