The Morrison Government will provide a funding injection for 16 local community groups and organisations in the Nicholls electorate to support the work of local volunteers.
Among local groups to receive a share of the almost $65,000 in funding are Echuca Neighbourhood House, Nagambie Golf Club, Broadford Cemetery Trust, and Nathalia District Community Association.
Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the funding would go a long way to support organisations and their volunteers through what has been a tough year.
“The bushfires had a devastating impact on many of our people and communities across the country and we are now living through a global pandemic,” Minister Ruston said.
“Volunteers freely give their time and skills to support others and will play a key role in communities over the next few months. This funding recognises the sacrifices they make to help deliver vital services to those who need it most.”
Member for Nicholls Damian Drum said 16 local organisations would receive funding to support the work of their volunteers.
“While the work of our volunteers may be unpaid, it is not unrecognised,” Mr Drum said.
“From fighting bushfires, delivering food to vulnerable Australians in isolation and helping with weekend sport, they are all local champions.
“Their contribution is vital to ensuring that we continue to support families, provide employment pathways for young people and strengthen community resilience.”
Mr Drum said the funding injection coincides with National Volunteer Week being celebrated this week.
“It’s vital we acknowledge the important contribution of our local volunteers in Nicholls,” he said.
Nationally, volunteering has an estimated annual economic and social contribution of $290 billion.
National Volunteer Week runs from May 18-24. You can get involved in the online activities by visiting the Volunteering Australia website.
Funding recipients in Nicholls:
Greater Shepparton Winter Night Shelter – $5000
Tongala and District Memorial Aged Care Service – $5000
Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre – $5000
Nathalia District Community Association Inc – $5000
Caroline Chisholm Society – $5000
Echuca Neighbourhood House – $5000
Tallygaroopna Men’s Club – $4990
Crossenvale Community House – $4930
Stanhope and District Men’s Shed – $4520
Moira Miniature Rail Inc – $4500
Nagambie Golf Club – $4240
Broadford Cemetery Trust – $3200
St John Ambulance Australia – Goulburn Valley and Campaspe Division – $3000
Heartbeat Victoria Goulburn Valley Branch – $2640
Shepparton Swimming Club – $1840
Kyabram Blue Light – $1000