Sunshine Coast volunteer not-for-profit groups get Christmas bonus: Fraser

14 December 2007

Sunshine Coast volunteer not-for-profit groups get Christmas bonus: Fraser

Volunteer organisations across the Sunshine Coast will share in more than $250,000 in the final 2007 round of the State Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Treasurer Andrew Fraser today announced the successful recipients of the Fund’s 55^th round of grants which include Sunshine Coast sporting and recreation groups, school organisations and community support 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.”

Grant recipients in this round include:

• Buderim Horse and Pony Club which receives $30,000 toward a new clubhouse
• Mountain Creek State School P & C which receives $30,000 for a new playground
• Noosa Arts Theatre which receives $26,538 to upgrade its sound equipment
• Endeavour Foundation Kunda Park which receives $29,940 for renovations
• Sunshine Coast Amateur Radio Club which receives $25,950 to upgrade communications equipment

Mr Fraser said following this 55^th round of grant allocations, 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 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