Vote for a bonus for your local community group

Locals have been urged to vote now to direct a $5000 Ergon Energex Community Fund grant to the Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club.

After a visit to Sarina to meet surf club members, Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham urged the Mackay and Whitsunday region community to “buy local” and vote for the surf club in the first People’s Choice poll.

The surf club is one of 32 community groups statewide who have received grants already from the fund. The People’s Choice poll decides which group will receive a bonus $5000.

“Now’s the time to be parochial, and back your local hardworking volunteers and the great work they do,” Dr Lynham said.

“The club relies on donations to fund equipment and training to fulfil a goal of zero preventable deaths on this stretch of coastline.”

“The Club plays multiple roles in the community here, as a hub for locals from nippers to adults, to a place of refuge during cyclones and other emergencies.

“They will use the $5000 grant to upgrade cold-room equipment and have electrical wiring checked to ensure the club is ready to support locals as the central evacuation centre in times of disaster.”

Club assistant secretary and clubhouse director Jeanne Ronald said the clubhouse facilities were invaluable during Cyclone Debbie in 2017 and the fires at Sarina Beach in 2018.

“This grant will help us provide upgraded facilities that are primed and ready to cater to any unexpected emergencies,’’ Mrs Ronald said.

“This funding is a gratefully received bonus for the club as we celebrate our 90^th year.’’

The Ergon Energex Community Fund shares almost $160,000 annually to deserving applicants and their projects.

Voting for the $5000 people’s choice bonus is open now and runs until midnight, Sunday 9 June.

Vote at ergon.com.au/about-us/community/community-fund/grant-recipients

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Media enquiries: Jan Martin 0439 341 314