More funding to help Southern Downs tackle drought

February 26, 2021

Reducing volunteer fatigue and increasing capacity of community groups will be key goals on the Southern Downs, thanks to $29,018 secured through the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together program, Maranoa MP David Littleproud announced today.

“It’s pleasing to see the Stanthorpe Agricultural Society has been granted $19,140 to purchase a utility vehicle to support community events held at the Stanthorpe Showgrounds,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Volunteers are critical to the success of community events and agricultural shows in our region, and this purchase will help to reduce fatigue for hard working volunteers and deliver more efficient events in the Stanthorpe community.

“Warwick Girl Guides will also benefit from the latest round of grants with a $9,878 funding injection to replace and refresh the floor coverings in the first Warwick Girl Guides hut.

Across Maranoa, more than $347,110 will be invested under this latest round of grants, supporting 10 projects that will create stronger local economies, reduce volunteer fatigue and reduce social isolation in our rural communities.

“The Australian Government’s $15 million commitment to the FRRR Tackling Tough Times Together program supports hundreds of projects run by local groups in drought-affected regional communities,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The program has a range of benefits, including reducing social isolation, stimulating the local economy and supporting social and educational participation for disadvantaged youth.

“I urge all community groups in Maranoa to apply for funding under the Tackling Tough Times Together program to bring their much-needed initiatives to life.”

Under Round 19 of the program, the Federal Government has committed over $1.1 million to support 24 individual projects nationwide.

More information on the Tackling Tough Times Together program and the latest round of recipients can be found on the Foundation’s website at www.frrr.org.au/grants/TTTT  or by visiting the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website at www.regional.gov.au/regional/programs.