Money for action

By Meg Kennedy

A local drug action group has received a boost to help the Moorabool community combat alcohol and drug addiction.
Moorabool Drug Action Group (MDAG) will receive $10,000 worth of funding from the Federal Government to continue their important work in combatting addiction in the Moorabool area.
MDAG was one of 72 local drug action teams to receive funding across the country, announced in late February by Minister for Regional Services Bridget McKenzie.
MDAG member and Youth Resource Officer Senior Constable Jim Ross said the funding will go towards “employing a part-time worker to co-ordinate services, so we can help assist, co-ordinate and deliver better.”
As part of their grant, MDAG spent time working with representatives of Australian Drug Foundation (ADF) on Friday, 15 March (pictured) to develop a Community Action Plan.
“It was a privilege to spend time with Moorabool Drug Action Group and hear about the unique strengths of the local community,” said Janelle Gibson, Alcohol and Drug Foundation Senior Community Development Officer.
“There’s a broader aspect [to combating drug and alcohol addiction] …it’s about creating a healthier mindset for the community,” said Snr Const Ross.
Moorabool Drug Action Group is comprised of multiple partners, including Moorabool Shire Council, Sports Central Ballarat, Department of Justice, Bacchus Marsh Medical Clinic, Moorabool News, Bacchus Marsh College, Victoria Police and Djerriwarrh Health Services.
For more information on MDAG, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MooraboolDrugActionGroup/, or contact Moorabool Shire Council at 5366 7100.