Pony clubs, rodeos focus of new gambling grants amid EI outbreak

Pony clubs and rodeo associations across Queensland will share in more than $287,000 from the latest round of Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants to help ease the impact of equine influenza, Treasurer Andrew Fraser announced today.

"This funding is just part of the $8,321,564 that 478 not-for-profit groups all over Queensland will be receiving from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund." Mr Fraser said.
"The Fund has been a reliable source of one-off grants for not-for-profit groups in local communities since 1994.
"One of the most satisfying aspects of the Fund is seeing the wide reach of the groups it benefits, from small communities in the north and west of the state, to metropolitan communities in South East Queensland.
"In this round, a variety of pony clubs from all over the state have received grants - from upgrading arenas to purchasing trailers and equipment, the government is committed to ensuring that not only the racing and thoroughbred industries but also recreational clubs involving horses are well supported during the equine influenza outbreak.
"I asked the committee to give priority consideration to any not for profit community groups, such as pony clubs, which may have applied.
"Additionally, another funding round – the final round of the year – will be decided at the beginning of December and announced before Christmas and similarly the Committee will also give consideration to those community pony clubs which have applied."

Grant recipients in this round include:
·Pomona and District Horse and Pony Club Inc Purchase equestrian equipment, fridge and BBQ $7,579

·Beenleigh Special School Parents & Citizens Association Purchase Liberty Swing $25,600

·Cairns String Orchestra Inc Purchase photocopier and printer $4,840

·Motor Neurone Disease Association of Queensland Inc Purchase patient aids, copier and upgrade kitchen $26,964

·Queensland Blue Light Association – Yarraman Mobile Entertainment Recreational Vehicle $28,590

The Fund has now provided about $351 million to over 31,500 community projects since its inception.
Levies generated from Golden Casket lotteries, wagering, keno, and gaming machines are redistributed through the Fund, ensuring all Queenslanders derive tangible benefits from gambling revenue.
The Fund awards grants of up to $30,000 to Queensland not-for-profit organisations to enhance their capacity to deliver services in their local community.

For more information on the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, or to obtain a funding application package, visit www.gcbf.qld.gov.au, or call (07) 3247 4284 or 1800 633 619 (freecall outside Brisbane).

Treasurer
The Honourable Andrew Fraser Friday, October 26, 2007