WATERWISE GRANTS HELP PROACTIVE GROUPS COMBAT DROUGHT

Queensland’s sporting clubs, community groups and churches can share in $3 million in grants to help get them through the worst drought on record, Water Minister Craig Wallace said today.

The second round of the Lifestyle WaterWise Grants is now open for applications.

“The grants will assist not-for-profit organisations to maintain gardens, parks and sporting fields during the drought,” Mr Wallace said.

“The program offers sporting clubs, churches and community childcare, kindergartens and pre-schools grants of up to $30,000 to implement waterwise measures.”

Mr Wallace said there had been a positive response to the first round of applications, and he expected a similar response in round two.

Almost 400 organisations received grants in the first round of the program.

“Eligible measures include improving watering systems, replacing existing water amenities like toilet cisterns, providing alternative water sources such as water tanks, and installing swimming pool covers and rollers.

“There are two levels of grants – up to $30,000 and between $3,000 and $10,000 for organisations seeking smaller grants.

“This is the Beattie Government’s way of supporting our community clubs and sporting groups through the state’s worst drought on record.”

Projects should fall under four categories:

·Improving sportsground or park watering systems;

·Replacing existing water-use devices;

·Providing alternative water sources; and

·Installing swimming pool covers and rollers

Applications for the second round close on 5 October 2007.

Lifestyle WaterWise application forms are available from www.nrw.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Caroline Kaurila, Craig Wallace’s office, on 3896 3694 or 0414 213 954.