Community groups in Diggers Rest have received funding from the federal government to support their volunteers under the Volunteer Grants program.
Hawke MP Sam Rae announced on May 17, that 35 community groups in Hawke received funding, including the Sunbury Basketball Association (SBA) and DREAM Group in Diggers Rest.
SBA received $1000 to fund fuel and transportation costs for volunteers, while DREAM received $1500 for IT equipment.
DREAM group member John Verdon said the team is extraordinarily grateful and really excited about receiving the funding.
“[The funding helped] us purchase some IT equipment… [including] a computer, mouse and keyboard,” Mr Verdon said.
“This means the group can operate independently and not be reliant on personal equipment… [which] can lead to delicate conflict of interests.
“It allows us to stand on our own two feet… It’ll be a resource for the whole group.”
Other funded projects include equipment purchases, training costs, fuel and travel costs for volunteers, events promoting volunteerism and more.
The federal government said local volunteers put in countless hours to make the community a better place to live, whether it’s through sporting clubs, neighbourhood houses or community groups.
“Our local volunteers do so much for us. This funding is all about giving back, to help them continue their good work,” Mr Rae said.
