Member for Southport, Peter Lawlor today announced more than $188,177.64 worth of Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants would be delivered to electorate community groups to provide essential services within their local area.
Mr Lawlor said it had been a tough start to the year for many not-for-profit community organisations following the floods and Cyclone Yasi.
“The whole state has been hit hard and is in the midst of recovery following devastating floods and cyclones,” Mr Lawlor said.
“Our community groups are working overtime to assist those in need, as thousands of Queenslanders reach out following the unprecedented natural disasters that have affected our State.
“These community benefit fund grants will help keep services going at a time where it’s needed most.
“These grants are another way the Bligh Government is supporting our community groups, including grassroots sporting and social clubs, P & Cs and service providers like the Endeavour Foundation and Red Cross.
“The much-needed money will go towards funding the every-day needs of community groups, like costly renovations, facility upgrades, sporting and musical equipment and support programs.
Mr Lawlor said some community groups would use the money to fund solar projects.
“In addition I am pleased to announce that $188,177.64 worth of funding has been approved for nine applicants across the electorate for solar sport and community group grants.
“Queensland community groups have embraced the opportunity to ‘go green’ and by switching to solar, sporting and community groups can make great savings on their electricity bills as well as help reduce the State’s carbon emissions.”
Community groups affected by the recent natural disasters in Queensland would be shown flexibility in their funding arrangements with the four community benefit fund programs.
The priorities of many grant applicants may have changed in the wake of these natural disasters, and variations and extensions may be required to implement the community group’s intended plans.
The funds administrator, the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation, is well aware of the situation and is on hand to accommodate those affected.
Those needing funding flexibility or support should contact OLGR on 13 QGOV (13 74 68) as a high priority.
The Gambling Community Benefit Fund uses a percentage of state revenue raised from gaming activities to offer grants of up to $35 000, more for complex applications, to assist community organisations throughout Queensland to meet the ongoing demand for their services.
To apply for a grant simply visit the OLGR website at www.olgr.qld.gov.au/grants
Applications for the next round of funding close on 31 May 2011.
See below for a full list of Gambling Community Benefit Fund recipients for Southport:
- Ashmore Community Childrens Centre
- Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association – Southport
- Headway Gold Coast
- Little Souls Taking Big Steps
- Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast
- Multiculturl Families Organisation
- Nga Tama O Te Ao
- Seachange Home Owners Association
- Southport Olympic Swimming Club
If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, please contact the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858, or visit www.olgr.qld.gov.au
