IPSWICH community groups affected by recent severe weather events have only until this Friday to apply for an RACQ Foundation grant.
RACQ Foundation spokesperson Emma Green said charities, community groups and sporting clubs throughout Ipswich could apply for funding of up to $50,000, or up to $100,000 in exceptional circumstances, to help them recover from cyclones, floods, bushfires and drought.
“Community organisations are the backbone of the area and when they’re struggling, the whole community suffers,” Ms Green said.
“The devastation caused by natural disasters, both financially and emotionally, can be long lasting, and funding through the RACQ Foundation is one of the ways we help communities recover.”
Community groups are still rebuilding more than seven months on from the devastating south east Queensland floods.
Since the disaster, RACQ Foundation has pledged $2.1 million to assist those affected to pay for rebuilding costs and the replacement equipment and amenities.
Jindalee Bowls Club received funding to purchase items for a temporary clubhouse including a lockable fridge, dishwashers, cash register, storage and the replacement of the office computer, printer, and copier.
“It is clear how this has increased the morale and happiness within the Club,” Club Chairman, Paul Kearnan said.
RACQ volunteers recently visited the South Brisbane District Cricket Club to help restore the grounds.
The Club also received funding for the removal of existing flood-damaged sight screen structures and the replacement of two mobile sight screens.
Vice President Alex Robynson said the cricket grounds are important to families in the community.
“At times it’s more than just a cricket club, it’s a place for people to come together and a beautiful place to watch cricket as well,” Mr Robynson said.
“We get contacted all the time by former and life members asking how the club is going, so clearly it stays with families for a long time.
“During the floods, the water came up and above our clubhouse and about three quarters of the way up the sight screen.
“The fields and the fence were all under water, and the shed and nets were all damaged.
“It was a big effort to get back up and running. Souths can’t thank the RACQ Foundation enough.”
