The Australian Government is continuing to back the drought-affected Lockyer Valley, with $22,089 to support the upgrade of the Glenore Grove Public Hall. The project was one of many across drought affected regional Australia, sharing in over $1.1 million in Federal funding under the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together program.
Federal Member for Wright, Scott Buchholz announced the funding for the Glenore Grove Public Hall and said the Morrison Government was pleased to partner with the foundation, to support their work in keeping drought hit communities together.
“This drought has been long, it has been tough, but it has also demonstrated the strong spirit of our community here in the Lockyer Valley.
“Our government understands the tough nature of this drought and the hardship of it on our people and communities in the Lockyer, that is why projects such as the Glenore Grove Public Hall upgrade are so important.
“This funding doesn’t just bring economic activity to the region – it builds social infrastructure that will have a long-term benefit to the community, beyond the drought.
“Building and improving community hubs such as the Glenore Grove Public Hall, which is home to many events and activities, increases community participation.
State Member for Lockyer, Jim McDonald said it was great to see funding flow to local groups.
“It’s great to see one of our hardworking local groups rewarded for their efforts.”
“The Glenore Grove Public Hall is in desperate need of an upgrade and this will increase community participation and allow many of our other local community groups to reap the benefit.”
“Thanks to Scott Buchholz, our Federal MP, for advocating so strongly for our community.”
Mr Buchholz said there was another side to the drought.
“It will rain again. However, until it does our government is there for farmers, there for drought hit communities,” Mr Buchholz said.
“We’ve delivered two rounds of Drought Communities Funding to the Lockyer Valley Regional Council, to get on with local projects, to support land holders and drive economic activity.
“Further to that, we’ve unlocked $3,000 in direct cash payments, for farmers, farm workers and suppliers – to put food on the table, help pay the bills and provide some wriggle room.
“The community grants through FRRR are just one component in our comprehensive drought response,” Mr Buchholz said.
“I look forward to seeing the hall upgrades be completed in the near future!” Mr Buchholz said.
Glenore Grove Public Hall committee President, Arnold Howard welcomed the funding.
“We’ve all been working hard, saving hard earned money from events and fund-raisers for many, many years.
“Our committee is excited to get on with the upgrade of the community hall, and we are waiting for approval from Council.
“The coronavirus has hindered our fundraising efforts and this $22,089 will go a long way in supporting the project, which is just over $90,000.” Mr Arnold said.
More information on the Tackling Tough Times Together program and the latest round of recipients can be found on the Foundation’s website at www.frrr.org.au/grants/TTTT or by visiting the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website at www.regional.gov.au/regional/programs.
The upgrade of the Glenore Grove Public Hall will enable bigger and better community events, with improved toilet facilities, accessibility and storage.
Ends.
Media note: File photo attached.
