Orbost Pony Club is among nine community organisations in Gippsland’s east to share more than $32,000 from the Federal Government.

The nine organisations are among 42 groups across Gippsland to receive much-needed funding under the $20 million Volunteer Grants program.

Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, said the organisations would receive between $1000 and $5000 each to support their volunteers.

“A total of more than $145,000 has been allocated to community-run organisations in Gippsland,” Mr Chester said.

“Of that money, more than $32,000 will be shared by groups in Gippsland’s east.

“Orbost Pony Club will receive $5000 to buy a ride-on mower and plastic chairs. Right now, club members bring in their own mower, so a mower owned by the club will help to spread the workload.

“The club is also planning to buy lightweight outdoor chairs to use on event days in the competition arenas.”

Mr Chester said volunteers devote a lot of time raising money to buy much-needed equipment and undertake a variety of activities.

“Through the Volunteer Grants program, we can give them a helping hand and make their roles as volunteers easier and more enjoyable,” he said.

“The grant money can be used to buy equipment such as computers, pay for training courses, undertake background checks, and reimburse volunteers for transport costs.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community and by continuing to help each other and work together, we are building a stronger and safer Gippsland.”

The recipients include:

Orbost Pony Club: $5000 for a ride-on mower and plastic chairs.

CFA Wairewa: $5000 for heating and cooling, furniture and white goods.

Bemm River Progress and Improvement Association: $3857 for a portable barbecue and air conditioner.

Cann River Community Centre: $5000 for outdoor furniture, first aid kit, storage, background checks, transport costs.

St John Ambulance: $1496 for computer software.

Omeo Angling Club: $3800 for mower and gardening equipment.

Lakes Entrance Men’s Shed: $2577 for equipment and tools.

Lakes Entrance Regional Historical Society: $4250 split heating/cooling system.

U3A Lakes Entrance: $1200 for a digital projector and screen.

PICTURED: Orbost Pony Club has received $5000 from the Federal Government to support its volunteer. Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, recently met up with some of the club’s young members, Marny Healey, Joanna Donald, London and Elly Austin, and Nakita and Alana Farley, with the good news.