April 6, 2022
Two of the Murgon district’s long-established community groups could be slashing their power bills soon, thanks to a grant program that funds the purchase of energy-efficient appliances for not-for-profit organisations.
Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien said everyone dreads electricity bills coming in, but these could be especially tough for community groups who have to fundraise for every cent.
“Replacing older appliances such as a leaking fridge that doesn’t seal with modern alternatives can make a big difference to their bottom line,” Mr O’Brien said.
“These hard-earned funds are better in the pockets of community organisations and the people they help than in the coffers of big power companies.”
The Tableland Public Hall Association recently bought an energy-efficient cooktop, fridge and freezer with a $5000 grant from the Powering Communities Program.
Hall Association president Ross Wessling said the new equipment would help reduce power costs.
“Without grants like this and community support, these halls wouldn’t exist,” Ross said.
“We have had everything from weddings to family reunions and 21st birthdays here, and it’s a real community asset.”
The Murgon Show Society also received a $5000 grant, and will use it to buy two new commercial fridges in early May.
Mr O’Brien said the Show Society’s Cattleman’s Bar kitchen had outdated appliances that needed replacement, including a fridge so noisy it had to be turned off during meetings until the Show Society began holding them in a different room.
Murgon Show Society president Alan Eagleson said upgrading the Cattleman’s Bar means the Show Society would be able to run more community events and take on extra fundraising opportunities.
“It will cut our power bill down to replace these fridges with nice modern units,” he said.
The new fridges will get their first work-out on July 9-10 when the Show Society stages a daytime rodeo and Stud Beef and Prime Cattle Show at Murgon Showgrounds.
(Photo: Wide Bay Electorate Office)
Related articles:
