Tuesday, 24th September 2024   Member for Glass House Andrew Powell has announced that eleven community organisations have taken shares in $613,202.25 across the Glass House electorate, courtesy of round 121 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF).   The GCBF provides sizeable grants to Queensland not-for-profit community organisations with revenue sourced from gaming taxes.   “I’ve been pointing community groups in the direction of these grants for years now,” said Mr Powell.   “The amount of money that continues to be collected from gambling taxes remains a whole issue on its own, but while we’ve got that money we may as well put it to good use.”   The winning groups in round 121 are:   Beerwah State School P&C   $54,606 to construct a shade structure.   “We’re in Queensland about to enter what’s sure to be another sweltering summer season. Of course our kids need all the shade they can get when they’re out and about at school!”     Butterfly Residential Care   $98,719.89 to purchase equipment, medical equipment and install a cold room.   “Butterfly House do fantastic work supporting young people struggling with eating disorders. I know this grant will be so appreciated by all who rely on their facilities.”   Eudlo State School P&C   $24,690 to purchase computers.   Glass House Mountains Community Hall   $99,827.91 to upgrade the facility.   Glasshouse Country Mens Shed   $100,000 to construct and fitout a new shed.   “What a huge windfall for the Glasshouse Country Mens Shed! They’ve already poured the slab for the shed with a prior Council grant and I know they’re itching to get the shed itself up now that their GCBF grant has been approved.”     Herd Together   $11,000 to purchase horse stables and a fence.   “Herd Together is a Bellmere based facility that aims to positively impact the emotional, mental, behavioural and social challenges of all ages that have at-risk behaviours or need special support services, using equine therapy.”   “Having been out to the centre personally and heard firsthand the stories of how equine therapy has changed lives, I know this grant will be sincerely appreciated.”   Rotary Club of Maleny   $49,992 to purchase a specimen collection kit.   Suncoast Fundogs Agility Club   $1,512 to purchase equipment.   “Elimbah based Fundogs offer agility training programs that are fun for both dog and trainer. It’s a great way to get yourself and pup outside for some bonding and exercise.”   Woodford Scout Group   $68,425.45 to upgrade club amenities.   “The Woodford Scout Group continually goes from strength to strength. They’ve picked up a few of my Local Heroes Grants before and they’re certainly no strangers to the Gambling Community Benefit Fund! They’ve got to be one of the best-kitted-out dens by now”   Town & Country Stockdog Association   $10,429 to purchase obstacle and stockyard fencing equipment.   Woodford Agricultural Pastoral and Industrial Association   $94,000 to upgrade facilities on the Showgrounds.   “As always, funding from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund has proven to be invaluable for school and community groups that just can’t raise the funding for big projects alone,” concluded Mr Powell.   The next round of grants (round 122) is now open and will close at midnight on 30 November 2024. Learn more and apply now at https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants