More funding to tackle tough times in the Southern Downs

August 18, 2021

Building the capacity of community groups will be a key goal in the Southern Downs thanks to $48,238 secured through the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT) program, Maranoa MP David Littleproud announced today.

“It’s great to see funds flowing directly to grassroots, community-led initiatives across Maranoa through Round 21 of the TTTT program,” Mr Littleproud said.

“These much-needed funds will help our communities to bounce back from the effects of drought and provide immediate support as we continue to weather the impacts of the pandemic.

“I’m pleased to see the Maryvale Community Hall Inc has been awarded $29,580 to freshening up the community hub. This project will help to reduce isolation through rejuvenating a meeting space that supports community connectedness for drought affected residents.

“Additionally, the Southern Downs Steam Railway Association will receive $18,658 to install rainwater storage within the precinct.”

In Maranoa, a total $228,279 was secured across 10 projects under the latest round of the TTTT program.

Minister Littleproud said the Australian Government is continuing to back drought-affected communities, with 32 individual projects nationwide sharing in a total $1.08 million in federal funding under the latest round of the TTTT program.

“The Tackling Tough Times Together program has a range of benefits, including facilitating strong social cohesion, reducing volunteer fatigue and stimulating the local economy, which in-turn create capable communities and skilful leaders within our regions,” Minister Littleproud said.

“The Government is pleased to support the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s critical work of supporting drought-affected communities, as the regions continue with their recovery from the impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and effects of natural disasters.”

“The Tackling Tough Times Together program is a rolling grants program and I encourage drought-affected communities to apply for the next open round of funding.”

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