Last week, the Longman Community Consultation Committee (LCCC) announced that it would be accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for Round 3 of the Stronger Communities Programme.
Providing a much-needed boost to community organisations in the Moreton Bay Region, the programme offers grants of up to 50% of the total cost of small capital projects, between $2500 and $20,000.
Like many organisations in Longman, University of the Third Age in Caboolture is looking to raise funds to expand and finance new projects, acknowledging the financial struggles that many organisations in the region are up against.
President Wendy Sanders said “We’ve only been going since 2011, and in that time we’ve had to rent six premises around Caboolture to deliver our classes to the community. We spent $20,000 in rent last year alone!”
“Rising costs are a huge barrier when you’re trying to make sure that your classes are affordable and accessible to everyone in the over 50’s community.”
“To generate a bit of extra income, we rely on the sale of jams, pickles and other home-made goods that our members provide.”
“Fortunately, we’ve now been provided with a lease and a space where we can permanently facilitate our classes. However, as we continue to grow over 500 members, we have to look at extending the building.”
Commenting on the programme’s broad criteria, which extends across many sectors, Ms Sanders said “The Stronger Communities Programme is a wonderful concept; it’s great to see our local Member and the Federal Government acknowledging seniors as a growing demographic.”
“Our community really needs this kind of assistance.” Ms Sanders concluded.
Susan Lamb, the Member for Longman added “This programme is broad-reaching, giving all organisations in our region, including those that represent our seniors, the chance to grow and flourish.”
Ms Lamb has urged all eligible organisations to take advantage of the programme, saying “This is not an opportunity to be missed, and I encourage all eligible organisations to get their expressions of interest in to my office as soon as possible.”
To be eligible, organisations must have an ABN and be classed as a not-for profit organisation, local government agency or body or a trustee on behalf of a property trust with responsibility for a community asset.
All EOIs will be reviewed by the LCCC, which is responsible for identifying potential organisations that are eligible to participate in the Programme, and ensure that projects will be of significant benefit to the Longman community. Members of the LCCC include:
Colleen Hughes, Seniors’ Representative – As a Bribie Island local, Colleen enjoys her life in retirement. She regularly gives back to the community through her volunteer work.
Jock Young, Veterans’ Representative – A respected member of the Bribie Island Vietnam Veterans Association, Jock dedicates his time to support and advocate for his community.
Dr Carolyn Weaver, Health Representative – With a wealth of experience in the medical industry, Carolyn is a key stakeholder in the development of the Morayfield Health Hub, working to improve the health needs of the community.
Amanda Wicks, Education Representative – As the Principal of Caboolture East State School, Amanda works with parents and students to improve educational outcomes of children in Longman.
Diane Oxenford, Environment Representative – Diane works tirelessly with the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association to preserve the local environment.
Ruy Christensen , Business Representative – As the owner of Worldwide Printing in Caboolture, Ruy looks after the communication needs of local businesses and organisations. He is also an active member of the community, regularly participating in community activities and initiatives.
Ashleigh Duss, Youth Representative – In her final year of high school, Ashleigh has been elected as the School Captain of Dakabin State High School, leading her peers to success in their senior year.
Susan Lamb, Political Representative – As the Member for Longman, Susan is responsible for guiding and leading the Committee through the process.
EOIs close on Monday 31 July – for more information and to submit an EOI, interested organisations should visit http://susanlambmp.com/Community-Grants or contact the office of Susan Lamb MP on (07) 5432 3177 or susan.lamb.mp@aph.gov.au.