Pat’s Weekly Column – April 12 2021

There would not be many of us who haven’t been touched by the wonderful work of our local community volunteers, and there are so many examples right across our region of individuals and groups selflessly giving of their time, knowledge and experience to help others… often with little thanks in return.

Whether that be our local charities, community hubs, sporting groups and support services, around every corner there are people doing wonderful things that help make us the inclusive, connected and compassionate community that we are.

These groups truly are the heart and soul of what makes the mid-north coast such a wonderful place to live, which is something that I’m constantly reminded of as I’m out and about seeing us working together to help those who’ve been impacted by the devastating floods.

This community spirit is certainly ingrained in our DNA and is one of the reasons why I made the decision to throw my hat in the ring to represent you as your federal member… a decision that I will never regret.

There have been many challenges for us all in recent times, and I’m pleased to let you know that financial assistance for community groups and volunteers is available.

The federal government has several grant opportunities open now, one to help with the cost of energy bills, and the other to assist community volunteers. The details are on my website patconaghan.com.au. Be quick however, as the volunteer grants close this Thursday 15 April.

Grant opportunities do pop up regularly, so I encourage you to have a look at Grant Connect grants.gov.au where you can see and search all the grants that are available and might be relevant for you… and grants that may be coming up.

Community groups certainly are the heart and soul of our community, and as your federal member I’m here for you and to represent you, so please let me know at any time if I can be of assistance.

Pat.