31 March 2009
$5 MILLION REGIONAL BENEFITS PROGRAM APPLICATIONS EXTENDED
From the Sugarloaf Pipeline Alliance
Local community groups keen to participate in the Regional Benefits Grants Program have more time to submit their applications as the closing date has been extended to 30 June 2009.
Melbourne Water Sugarloaf Pipeline Project Director Rod Clifford said the extension was necessary as many people in the region had other priorities to deal with as a result of the recent bushfires.
“We understand that the bushfires have affected many of the community groups that were already working on grant applications. We have been in contact with a lot of them over the past few weeks and it’s clear that this program is more important than ever,” Mr Clifford said.
The Regional Benefits Advisory Committee met earlier this month to discuss the current situation, and how the program could best move forward.
RBAC Chairperson Joy Humphreys said, “The interest we have been receiving about the program in recent weeks has been enormous. Many local organisations are viewing it as an opportunity to access resources to help rebuild the community at a time when it’s needed most. They see this process as a positive way of working toward a sense of normality in what has been a difficult time.”
Three Grants Writing Workshops have been held during the past few months with more than 90 people from communities located along the pipeline route taking part. The workshops were also an opportunity for community groups to share ideas and identify common needs. Support for grant writing continues to be available through a support line and through individual assistance.
The Regional Benefits Program aims to deliver financial and in-kind contributions that will provide long-term benefits to communities along the Sugarloaf Pipeline Project’s proposed preferred corridor. Applications may include a request to restore a building, to build a playground or upgrade equipment for volunteer emergency services.
Anyone seeking assistance is encouraged to contact Claire Garth, Regional Benefits Manager on 0403 028 662, or visit sugarloafpipeline.com.au for more information.
Media Contact: Denise Hurley +61 3 9727 8405 +61 (0)437 359 400