Kicking up dust on the Alpha racetrack and exposing Barcaldine, Aramac students to industry

February 26, 2020

The Alpha Jockey Club will undergo a facelift, thanks to $18,079 secured through the Foudnation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT) program, Maranoa MP David Littleproud said.

“Races are a lifeline in any rural community and I’m glad that the Alpha Jockey Club has received funding through the TTTT program for furniture, equipment and storage facilities to support its racetrack meetings and other events,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Drought really puts the pressure on everyone in the community and this upgrade will incentivise people to get involved as punters, in fashions on the field and most importantly to get together and enjoy a good time.

“In addition, Barcaldine and Aramac high school trade students will have the opportunity to visit the city and learn about the hospitality and tourism industries.

“The trip will expand students’ minds about the world of food and tourism – important experiences for our youth to have when it comes to figuring out what career avenue you want to pursue.

“The students will travel with their peers from Blackall, Longreach and Winton high schools with the help of $25,482 through TTTT.

“This is a shot in the arm for the people of Barcaldine who really have been tackling the tough times.”

In total, Maranoa communities secured $294,686 through Round 15 of the TTTT grant program.

The Federal Government is providing a total of $15 million, through the Tackling Tough Times Together initiative – also supported by philanthropy and business – to New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

The majority of projects funded in this round seek to reduce volunteer fatigue and boost the operations of local not-for-profit organisations in drought communities.

The Federal Government is backing drought-affected communities by providing more than $8 billion in drought assistance and concessional loans to support those experiencing hardship.

More information on the Tackling Tough Times Together program and the latest round of recipients can be found at https://www.frrr.org.au/grants/TTTTor by visiting https://www.regional.gov.au/regional/programs/.

ENDS