The Australian Government is continuing to back regional communities, with six projects in Grey to receive a share of more than $1 million in federal funding under the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s award-winning Tackling Tough Times Together program.
Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said the Government was pleased to support the Foundation’s critical work of supporting regional communities, as the regions continue with their recovery from the impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and effects of natural disasters.
“The Tackling Tough Times Together program has a range of benefits, including facilitating strong social cohesion, reducing volunteer fatigue and stimulating the local economy, which in-turn create capable communities and skilful leaders within our regions,” he said.
In Grey projects to be funded under this latest round of grants include –
$87,600 for Brinkworth Community Bus which aims to reduce social isolation by purchasing a community bus to facilitate strong social cohesion and connection.
$5500 for the Wudinna Play Gym which will support opportunities for development and learning with a play gym in Wudinna.
$33,336 Peterborough Art Centre- Garden Redevelopment to strengthen economic recovery and renewal through improvements to the Peterborough Art Centre – Garden Redevelopment.
$42,000 Fringe in the Flinders to support economic growth and community connection through the Fringe in the Flinders event in Quorn.
$10,000 Minnipa and Districts Swimming Pool Incorporated support the longevity of the Minnipa community pool with infrastructure works.
$25,000 Warramboo Community Club Playground Replacement encourage children’s learning and development though play by installing playground equipment at the Warramboo Community Club.
“Under previous rounds of this funding we have had some fantastic community projects in Grey and I am very pleased to see these strong innovative communities utilise Tackling Tough Times Together funds to improve lives and strengthen ties.
Drought, Grants and Publicity Support Officer at Flinders Ranges Council Kathy Diener said council welcomed the funding which will support its committment to supporting its local community and economy by implementing projects that will reduce social isolation, encourage community connectedness and participation, while generating increased visitation to the area and associated local spending.
“The Fringe in the Flinders project will be a two-day event to be held in Quorn during the Adelaide Fringe Festival in February / March 2022 and supported by Adelaide Fringe On Tour,” she said.
“The project offers significant potential benefit to local businesses and the region’s economy, as it will bring a number of performers and organisers associated with the shows to the area, as well as locals and visitors who will come to attend the event.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said this latest injection of Government support for 32 individual projects nationwide came at a critical time.
“This funding is being delivered directly to grassroots, community-led initiatives to benefit local communities that have been hardest-hit, providing immediate support as we continue to weather the impacts of the pandemic,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“The Australian Government’s $15 million commitment to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together program is already supporting hundreds of projects run by local groups.”
More information on the Tackling Tough Times Together program and the latest round of recipients can be found on the Foundation’s website at https://frrr.org.au/TTTT or by visiting the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications’ website at www.regional.gov.au/regional/programs.
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 02 62774967
August 18, 2021