Community organisations across the Redlands are celebrating a major funding boost with multiple local groups securing a share of nearly $19.5 million in the latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
The Victoria Point Girl Guides, Coochiemudlo Island Surf Life Saving Club Inc. and The Russell Island Bowls Club Inc. are among the standout recipients, with funding also flowing to a broad mix of grassroots organisations across the Redlands, islands and Capalaba area.
The State Government is delivering approximately $19.5 million in Round 125 of the program, with almost 800 community organisations statewide receiving grants of up to $35,000 each.
In the Redlands, the Victoria Point Girl Guides secured $34,975 to repair and upgrade their Girl Guide Hut, boosting its capacity to deliver programs for young women and the wider community.
Coochiemudlo Island Surf Life Saving Club Inc. received $24,719 to build a secure outdoor storage room, purchase equipment and establish a dedicated indoor training area, while The Russell Island Bowls Club Inc. was awarded $23,880 to purchase new indoor and outdoor furniture to cater for a growing membership base.
Other local recipients include Coochiemudlo Mens Shed Inc., Guides Queensland, Redland Bridge Club Inc., Redlands Rugby League Club Inc., Shoreline Association for Neighbourhood Development Inc., Bayside Beekeepers’ Association and Cleveland Scouts Group.
In the Capalaba area, additional funding recipients include Redlands Church of Christ Inc., Coolnwynpin State School Parents and Citizens Association and Capalaba District Meals on Wheels Inc., further extending the reach of the grants across the local community.
The Gambling Community Benefit Fund supports not-for-profit organisations to deliver vital services and activities, including facility upgrades, equipment purchases and community programs.
More than $60 million is distributed each year through the fund, making it Queensland’s largest one-off community grants program.
Since its inception in 1994, the fund has delivered more than $1.3 billion to community groups across the state.
Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the grants would deliver meaningful outcomes for local organisations.
“The Gambling Community Benefit Fund goes straight back into our communities and I’m proud that this round is supporting so many dedicated organisations across the state,” the Attorney-General said.
“Grant funding can be life-changing for community groups facing challenges and I congratulate the successful applicants of Round 125.
“In a state as large and diverse as Queensland, the work of volunteers and not-for-profits organisations is vital, especially in regional, rural and remote communities.
“The Crisafulli Government remains committed to backing our communities and delivering funding for projects that matter most to Queenslanders.”
Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said the funding was a strong outcome locally, particularly for the Victoria Point Girl Guides.
“The Gambling Community Benefit Fund is all about backing grassroots organisations, and this investment will help create a safer, more functional space for programs that build confidence, leadership and connection,” Mrs Young said.
“In the Redlands, we know how important community organisations like the Girl Guides are, they provide a place where young people can grow, learn new skills and form lifelong friendships.
“I’m proud to support funding that strengthens our local facilities and empowers groups like the Victoria Point Girl Guides to expand their reach and continue the incredible work they do in our community.”
Girl Guides District Manager Tamara Penfold said the Victoria Point branch greatly appreciated the support.
“This funding will enable us to undertake much-needed kitchen and flooring renovations that would not have been possible without this support,” Ms Penfold said.
“These improvements will enhance our facilities, creating a safer, more functional and welcoming space for our members, allowing girls to develop practical life skills.”
Round 125 attracted more than 1,500 applications from across Queensland, highlighting strong demand for community funding, with successful projects spanning sporting clubs, volunteer organisations and local service groups.
