Cash splash: Where government grants went in M’boro

From Speedway shade to military displays, here’s how community organisations will benefit from the latest round.

MP Llew O'Brien delivered three grants to Maryborough community organisations on Thursday June 10. Photos: Stuart Fast

Federal grants for small projects can make a big difference for the clubs and groups in the Maryborough community.

On Thursday, Wide Bay MP Llew O’Brien delivered grants to three happy recipients.

Maryborough Sporting Car Club received $15,000 from the Stronger Communities Program and club president Paul Swindells said the funds would go towards improving sun safety with new shades over the stands at the Maryborough Speedway.

(L) MP Llew O'Brien presents a $15,000 grant to Paul Swindells, president of the Maryborough Sporting Car Club for sun shade upgrades to the Maryborough Speedway. Photo: Stuart Fast

“It’s for families and kids watching the racing who can stand under the shade while watching,” he said.

“The grant’s good, it’s a big thing for the club and every dollar we get helps us improve our facilities.”

For Maryborough Men’s Shed President Gary Conyers, the $2070 grant from the National Shed Development Program will help take the Maryborough organisation into the modern era, with two new laptops and an internet connection to help with administration.

Maryborough Men's Shed President Gary Conyers with a $2070 grant from MP Llew O'Brien to the Men's Shed for new IT equipment. Photo: Stuart Fast

Mr Conyers said aside from sausage sizzles and donations, the Maryborough Men’s Shed didn’t have any funding and the federal grant received was fantastic.

The next group to receive funding was the Maryborough Military Aviation Museum, receiving $12,000 from the Saluting Their Service Program.

Aviation Museum Association President Jenny Elliot said she was honoured and excited for the museum to receive the grant.

MP Llew O'Brien presents a $12,000 grant to the Maryborough Military Aviation Museum with (L) Museum association vice president Nan Ott and president Jenny Elliot. Photo: Stuart Fast

She said the grant would go towards funding a static display of a tiger moth aircraft which was crucial to training Royal Australian Airforce personnel during World War Two.

Mr O’Brien said he was happy to support the community organisations and there was always strong interest in grants such as these.

He encouraged community groups interested in future rounds of grants to contact his office or visit the Regional Development Australia website.

Originally published as Cash splash: Where government grants went in M’boro