Funding for local volunteers

Moorabool’s volunteer-run groups are being encouraged to apply for a Federal Government grant, with thousands on offer to help them out.

Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible not-for-profit community organisations, under the Government’s Volunteer Grants program.

The funding is available to purchase eligible small equipment items for use by volunteers, volunteers’ fuel costs, cover the cost of training courses for volunteers, or to conduct activities to increase participation in volunteering opportunities and more.

One local group that has already benefitted from the program is the Bacchus Marsh Bowling Club, which received $4,325 to provide volunteer first aid and RSA training, and purchase IT equipment and bowls equipment.

Bacchus Marsh Bowling Club President Phil Minniti said the funding had been crucial in helping the club’s volunteers do their fantastic work.

“For more than 100 years, the Bacchus Marsh Bowling Club has been a part of the community. Our volunteers keep our club going, and this grant meant we could support our volunteers in the great work they do,” Mr Minniti said.

Federal Member for Hawke Sam Rae encouraged locals to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) before the deadline at 5pm on Monday 4 September.

“Local volunteer-based organisations in Hawke should submit an Expression of Interest to make sure our community can make the most of the funding,” he said.

EOIs for groups in the Hawke electorate can be lodged on Sam Rae MP’s website at samraeforhawke.com.au/volunteer-grants-23-24/.

To request a paper EOI form or for more information, contact Sam Rae MP’s office by calling 9070 1960, or emailing [email protected].