Community organisations across the Mirani Electorate are set to receive a significant boost, with $231,011.65 in total funding awarded through the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF). Eight local groups were successful in securing grants to purchase much-needed equipment to enhance their operations and support their members.
This latest funding round received more than 2,000 applications across Queensland—the highest number in the GCBF’s 31-year history. Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the grants came at a critical time when many organisations were struggling to fundraise due to cost-of-living pressures.
“Community organisations are having a tough time raising money as families tighten their belts, so having these grants available for groups that do so much for our communities is a vital lifeline,” Mr Kelly said.
“Whether it’s the laundry facility for the Eungella Community Association, a new mower for Kalapa Hall, or a new solar system and air conditioning for the Gargett Branch of the Country Women’s Association, these grants will enable these organisations to provide better services to their community.
“This round enabled groups to apply for up to $35,000 in funding, but with the next round enabling organisations to apply for over $100,000, it’s certainly a much easier way than volunteers having to man sausage sizzles and bake sales to bring in the money for those larger purchases,” he said.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, Deb Frecklington, said the record-breaking interest in the latest round demonstrated the importance of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund to communities across Queensland. Round 124 of the Fund—the upcoming “Super Round”—will offer grants of up to $100,000 and will open on 9 June, closing on 18 July 2025.
“These grants are a huge benefit across Queensland’s towns, rural centres and cities, and they can be a lifeline for organisations that are doing it tough,” the Attorney-General said.
“You only need to look at the list of recipients in Round 122 to see the difference these grants make to the people and places that make our State strong.”
The Eungella Community Development Association received $34,994.75 to help establish a commercial laundry in Eungella.
“We’re really thankful to the Crisafulli Government to help get this grant through,” said Nick Rivers, from the Eungella Community Development Association.
“The money is going to be used for a commercial laundry, so locals, tourists and other visitors can wash their clothes when they’re up here and help give the association a more consistent stream of revenue. The laundry will be located next to our community showers so people can wash their clothes and shower all in the one location.”
Des Bryce-Burgess, from the Pioneer Valley Sporting Association, welcomed the $35,000 in funding for air conditioning, signage and fencing at the club.
“This money will help provide growth for the club. The air con will make the club more comfortable and make the experience for diners and guests better,” Mr Bryce-Burgess said.
“The signage will help promote the club and make us more known within the community.”
Following the impacts of recent natural disasters, the upcoming GCBF Super Round has been rescheduled to ensure impacted organisations have the time and capacity to apply. For more details and a full list of recipients from Round 122, visit: www.justice.qld.gov.au/grants
Full list of recipients in the Mirani Electorate:
Recipient Organisation Purpose Recommended Amount
Carmila State School Parents and Citizens Association Purchase bus $35,000.00
Eungella Community Development Association Incorporated Construct laundry facility $34,994.75
Kalapa Hall and Sports Committee Inc. Purchase mower $23,000.00
Mirani State School Parents and Citizens Association Upgrade playground equipment $35,000.00
Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Inc. Install air conditioning, signage and fence $35,000.00
Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association Inc. – QF24 Thirsty Sound Purchase vehicle $35,000.00
Queensland Country Women’s Association – Gargett Branch Install solar system and air conditioner $24,680.00
ABHA Capricorn Coast Circuit Inc. Purchase timer and scoreboard $8,336.90
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP pictured in Eungella, where local groups like the Eungella Community Development Association are benefiting from Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants to support vital community infrastructure. Photo supplied
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