Gold Coast volunteer groups get Christmas bonus: Fraser

14 December 2007

Gold Coast volunteer groups get Christmas bonus: Fraser

Volunteer not-for-profit groups across the Gold Coast region will share in $192,000 in the latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Treasurer Andrew Fraser today announced the recipients of the 55^th round of the Fund, which include Gold Coast sporting organisations and arts and Parents and Citizens groups.

“It’s great that these organisations will be able to start celebrating the holidays early this year with this great boost to their finances,” Mr Fraser said.

“The impact that these groups have in their neighbourhood is both practical and long lasting.

“The efforts of the many volunteers and members who work hard all year round to build their local communities are invaluable and I hope that during the Christmas season they take the opportunity to reflect on their achievements.

“Grants are distributed to encourage and enhance the capacity of not-for-profit groups, not only on the Gold Coast but right across the state.

“The focus of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund is to make a difference to Queensland’s communities by strengthening the capacity of not-for-profit groups to provide services, facilities and opportunities to Queenslanders.”

Grant recipients in this round include:

• Elanora State School P & C which receives $30,000 to air condition its new performing arts centre
• Life Education which receives $26,439 to purchase a new vehicle
• Surfers Paradise Outrigger Canoe Club which receives $27,835 for new equipment

Following this latest grants round, the Fund has now provided about $359.6 million to almost 32,000 community projects since its inception in 1994.

Levies generated from Golden Casket lotteries, wagering, keno, and gaming machines are redistributed through the Fund, ensuring that the whole State on balance derives tangible benefits from gambling revenue.

The Fund awards one-off grants of up to $30,000 to Queensland not-for-profit organisations to enhance their capacity to deliver services in their local community. The majority of incorporated not-for-profit groups in Queensland are eligible to apply and applications from both large and small organisations are encouraged.

For more information on the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, or to obtain a funding application package, visit www.gcbf.qld.gov.au, or call (07) 3247 4284 or 1800 633 619 (freecall outside Brisbane).

Media Contact: Treasurer’s Office 3224 5982