Community groups in northern Victoria continue to benefit from the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations Program with four new groups sharing in more than $10,000 of grant funding in the seventh round of the program.
The Inland Rail Sponsorship and Donations program provided:
- $2,000 for the Broadford Town Tennis Club to upgrade their lighting
- $2,409 for the South Wangaratta Rural Fire Brigade to replace vital equipment
- $3,468 for the North East Windsport Club to upgrade toilet facilities for disabled access
- $4,000 for Seymour FM to assist in the rebuild of their transmission tower.
Locally-based Nationals Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie said the Inland Rail Sponsorships and Donations program was one way that the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) was supporting local communities along the alignment.
“ARTC’s Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program is providing small grants up to $4,000 to local initiatives that improve the wellbeing of communities where the Inland Rail will operate,” Senator McKenzie said.
“It’s a small gesture from our national rail operator that’s making a big impact to people in regional Victoria, including for Seymour FM who will be able to rebuild their transmission tower with the
$4,000 grant.
“Community groups and associations make an enormous contribution to the social connection and wellbeing of our regions so it’s fantastic to see the range of worthwhile projects and initiatives recognised by ARTC in the latest round of the Inland Rail Sponsorships and Donations program.”
Senator for Victoria Jane Hume congratulated the successful groups and encouraged other groups in northern Victoria to apply for grants under the program.
“I’m very pleased that the South Wangaratta Rural Fire Brigade has received funding to replace vital equipment in their fire station and that the North East Windsport Club will be able to upgrade the toilet facilities for disabled access,” Senator Hume said.
“Our schools, our sporting groups and our community organisations have always been a big part of the northern Victorian community and thanks to this Program, those groups will receive a welcome boost from Inland Rail to spruce up facilities and improve communications.
“With another round of the Program open right now, I encourage more local groups and schools to familiarise themselves with the guidelines and submit an application.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack commended ARTC for investing in the regional communities that will be the home to Inland Rail.
“The Australian Government and ARTC are committed to working with local communities to maximise the opportunities that Inland Rail provides,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Inland Rail will operate for decades to come, providing opportunities for businesses to grow and supporting local employment.
“I am pleased that ARTC is investing in the culture and wellbeing of our regional communities as they plan for and deliver Inland Rail – these grants help support organisations and groups whose tireless work brings our community together.”
ARTC has supported more than 25 community groups in northern Victoria; together these groups have received grants worth over $100,000. The current round of the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program is open until Friday 30 April.
Visit https://inlandrail.artc.com.au/opportunities/sponsorships-and-donations/ to apply.