The Sussex Inlet Marine Rescue NSW unit is one of nine community organisations across Gilmore that will share in more than $112,000 in grants as part of the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Programme.
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has delivered a $17,962 grant to Sussex Inlet Marine Rescue to upgrade its radio room.
“The grant will allow the aging radio room to be re-fitted and radios, computers and phones to be replaced with current, state-of-the art communications equipment,” Mrs Phillips said after visiting the unit on Monday.
“With an influx of new members, and existing members keen to become radio operators, it is vital that the service has a dedicated space and equipment that is fit for purpose.
“The Sussex Inlet Marine Rescue volunteers do such an incredible job keeping local and visiting boaters safe all year-round, but particularly over the summer holidays when the population swells.
“With around 70 active members giving their time to our community, I was really pleased to be able to help out with a grant for the upgrade in appreciation of the wonderful work they do in Sussex Inlet and beyond.”
The Sussex Inlet Chamber of Commerce has also received a $15,000 boost from the Stronger Communities Program, to equip the Ellmoos Community Event Centre with an energy efficient heating and cooling system, as well as solar panels to help reduce running costs.
To the north of the electorate, a $15,000 grant will assist the Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club’s upgrade of the female, gender-neutral and parent room amenities, while the Jamberoo Youth Hall will also receive $15,000 to install solar panels and air conditioning.
Mrs Phillips said she was pleased to support the Albatross Musical Theatre Company with a $15,000 grant to replace audio visual equipment to enhance their “wonderful local performances”.
The Bomaderry Scout Hall will receive an injection of $3,448 to replace aging lights with high efficiency LED lighting which will help lower running costs and reduce the group’s carbon footprint.
In the south of the electorate, the Milton-Ulladulla Panthers Football Club will receive $6,200 for first aid kits and a stretcher for the 10 female teams, while the Moruya Soccer Club will install defibrillators thanks to a $6,490 grant.
Volunteers and visitors to Tomakin’s Rally For Recovery op-shop will soon enjoy a new accessible shed, thanks to a $18,500 grant from the Stronger Communities Programme.
Mrs Phillips said she was delighted to help those groups that continue to enhance the local community.
“These organisations support and engage people in our communities, whether that is through sport, music, social activities or keeping us safe,” Mrs Phillips said.
“The Stronger Communities grants deliver small infrastructure projects and equipment that support local organisations and encourage participation.
“I congratulate the nine recipients and thank all the volunteers that give their time and skills to help create vibrant communities on the South Coast.”
Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips with Sussex Inlet Marine Rescue volunteers in their radio room which will soon be upgraded and refitted with state-of-the-art communication equipment thanks to a Stronger Communities grant.
