23 August, 2019

Eleven sporting and community groups will benefit from a total of nearly $40,000 from the latest round of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Section 365 Small Grants Program.

Gunnedah Shire Councillors have approved applications for six community organisations and five sporting organisations, for projects from a new ride-on mower for the Kelvin Hall to new accessible toilets at the Gunnedah Rugby Club.

“It was a difficult decision,” Cr Rob Hooke, who is on the selection panel, said. “There were 20 applications, and while we would like to give everyone a helping hand, we need to be realistic with the funding.

“I’m really pleased we can help 11 worthy projects across the shire that will make a difference in people’s lives.”

Councillors Colleen Fuller and David Moses, who are also on the selection panel, agreed.

“I congratulate all the volunteers on our community and sporting groups on the huge amount of work and unpaid hours they put in. It all helps make Gunnedah the vibrant shire it is with many activities and services on offer,” Cr Fuller said.

Cr Moses said the applications included some great projects.

“It’s inspiring to see the initiatives community and sporting groups have in mind for the future,” he said.

Council agreed to approve total funding of $19,742 for six community organisations:

• $5,000 for Gunnedah Family Support for delivery of the Little Footprints Parenting Program
• $5,000 for Ooranga Family Mobile Association for development of a web-based platform for creation of an Early Childhood Hub
• $3,058 for Kelvin Hall Committee for a ride-on mower for Kelvin Hall
• $3,038.67 for the Curlewis Country Women’s Association for equipment to support the club’s activities
• $2,745.33 for Gunnedah Meals on Wheels for a computer server to support registration and governance obligations
• $900 for Rotary Club of Gunnedah West to help engage a sculptor to produce a 1.25m stone sculpture of Ailsa Iceton with a bronze plaque and installation on Pensioners Hill.

Funding for the five sporting organisations totals $19,777:

• $4,491.09 for Gunnedah Netball Association for upgrades to the clubhouse and new equipment
• $4,322.73 for Gunnedah Poultry Club for safety enhancements to the Poultry Pavilion including a new gravel base flooring
• $4000 for Gunnedah & District Pony Club to purchase a custom-fitted golf buggy for the Safe Rider Program
• $3,481.59 for Gunnedah Motoring Enthusiasts for electronic hardware and software to support the Hill Climb Championship event
• $3,481.59 for Gunnedah Rugby Club to construct eight new toilet cubicles at the club.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.