David Littlerpoud MP David Littlerpoud

Paddling for a good cause in Longreach and giving students exposure to industry

February 26, 2020

Longreach’s Outback Paddle Regatta Festival is one of two projects being boosted, thanks to $50,000 secured through Round 15 of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT) initiative, Maranoa MP David Littleproud said.

“Longreach has been doing it tough with drought for years but I’m pleased to see the Outback Paddle Regatta Festival getting it’s due because it brings the community together for a good time,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Providing an avenue for the community to get involved and develop the festival helps to put the region on the tourist map and sends out a signal that no matter the weather, Longreach is here to stay.

“In addition, Longreach State High School’s 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, Barcaldine, Winton and Aramac high schools with the help of $25,482 through TTTT.”

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