Eighty-two grants were announced for the Parkes electorate and 2700 in total.

Among the grant recipients in Gunnedah were: The Gatepost Support Services Inc ($4500) for first aid and safety training; The Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society Inc ($4983) for computer equipment; Rotary Club of Gunnedah West ($1300) for computer equipment; Gunnedah and District Historical Society Inc ($1490) for computer equipment; Linda Lee of Gunnedah Services and Bowling Club ($4000) for computer equipment;  Gunnedah Meals on Wheels Assocation ($4000) for reimbursement of fuel costs; and Rotary Club of Gunnedah ($1800) for computer equipment. 

A number of community organisations in Gunnedah’s surrounding villages were also successful with the grant applications, including Buritja Aboriginal Corporation Breeza who received $5000 for computer equipment and administration costs, Carroll Progress Association, $3706, for heating and cooling and kitchen upgrades, and Emerald Hill Progress Association received $2800 for heating and cooling.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the government’s investment in local communities is delivering vital support to small community organisations and its volunteers.

“The grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 enable these organisations to better support their volunteers by purchasing much-needed equipment, training and transport,” Mr Coulton said.

“Next week, from May 8, is National Volunteer Week, when we acknowledge the important work of our volunteers and their organisations in building stronger communities.

“The energy, expertise and time our volunteers give to our community supports those most in need and represents what Australian communities are all about – giving a helping hand.

“I’m glad to see that our local organisations will have this support to continue their valuable work,” he said.