Grants Boost Grassroots Groups Across Mirani Electorate

Community spirit is thriving in the Mirani electorate, thanks to a welcome injection of funding aimed at strengthening local services, improving facilities, and supporting regional resilience.

Nine community groups across the electorate have shared in more than $216,000 through Round 123 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) – a vital initiative that supports not-for-profit organisations delivering meaningful outcomes in their local areas.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, congratulated the recipients and acknowledged the critical role each group plays in the fabric of regional life.

“Community groups are the hearts of our communities and give so much to the people in their areas,” Mr Kelly said.

“These grants are incredibly important to give a helping hand to our community groups to provide
opportunities to their communities.”

“This round saw groups in Mirani receive funds for equipment, facility upgrades, and support to help them run community events.

“Amongst the recipients, Sarina Rugby League Club will be able to install irrigation and purchase additional equipment.

"I’m especially excited to see Sarina Landcare receive funding for a shade structure, one that I saw a need for when I visited the site earlier this year.”

Saskia von Fahland, Coordinator for Sarina Landcare welcomed the funding with $29,300 being provided to build a shade structure over the nursery.

“The project will enhance the Community Nursery’s efficiency, and provide additional workspace for volunteers and staff.

“This will lead to increase volunteer capacity and the ability to grow more native plants for our region.”

Glenda Matsen, President of the Ilbilbie Hall Management Committee, who received $30,209 to install awnings over their walkways said that it will improve wet weather access to the hall.

“This will help the elderly especially, during the wet weather as there’s currently no dry access.

“The whole community will benefit from it, and help preserve the ramp because it is deteriorate as a result of the weather and sun on it.”

Applications for the next Super Round of the GCBF, offering grants of up to $100,000, are now open and close 18 July 2025.

Recipients in Mirani were:

o Homebush State Parents and Citizens Association - Received $6,273.85 to host Homebush Hoedown.
o Ilbilbie Hall Management Association - Received $30,209.00 to install awnings over walkways.
o Mackay Cycling Club - Received $8,502.98 to purchase a trailer and medical equipment.
o Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc - Received $34,944.00 to purchase equipment and install a shipping container.
o Sarina Junior Rugby League Club - Received $25,887.00 to install irrigation and purchase equipment.
o Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association Inc. - Received $29,300.00 to install a shade structure.
o The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited - Received $17,066.00 to construct a gazebo.
o The Queensland Country Women’s Association - Received $29,200.00 to paint the hall and repair the fence.
o Westwood Progress Association Inc. - Received $35,000.00 to install an accessible bathroom and upgrade the facility.

To view the full list of Round 123 recipients, and find out more about current GCBF rounds, visit:
www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

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More than $216,000 in grants has been awarded to nine community groups across the Mirani electorate to support vital projects including facility upgrades, equipment purchases, and local event delivery. Photos supplied

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