Community organisations in Tumbarumba are being urged to consider their projects for potential grant support, as the 2023 Hyne Community Trust prepares to open for applications in June. Since its establishment in 2007, the Trust has proudly supported community initiatives in the Tumbarumba region, providing lasting benefits to the area.
The Tumbarumba Golf Club: A Great Community Initiative
In a recent visit to the Tumbarumba Golf Club, Trust Director Katie Fowden praised the club’s successful use of two grants for roof replacement and solar panel installation.
Fowden said, “A new roof to replace a leaking one, engineered to hold and install solar panels are delivering additional use of space previously unusable, economic savings for reinvestment for the club while reducing the club’s carbon footprint.”
She also highlighted the club’s growing role as a community hub, hosting a range of events and activities, as well as its commitment to sustainability and reinvestment.
Long-standing club members and volunteers, Michael and Alison Pearce, emphasised the importance of the golf club’s location, upgraded amenities, and potential for growth.
“From Bingo to crochet, footy tipping, charity fundraisers and open mic nights attracting over 200 attendees, more and more community groups value this space,” they said.
“My wife and I have been enjoying everything this golf club has to offer for over 20 years and are passionate about volunteering our time to keep making further improvements for non-golfers to also enjoy the space.” Mr Pearce said.
With savings from energy bills and increased income from users, the club has been able to fund additional improvements, such as new carpeting, video conferencing technology, and preliminary plans for a veranda.
Additionally, the club has begun to use its surroundings as an overflow caravan site during Tumbafest and other events, supporting the local economy.
Revamped Training Room Supports ‘Resilient Towns Initiative’
A room in the Golf Club, once damaged by a leaking roof, has been repurposed into a functional training space, thanks to Hyne Community Trust funding. This space now plays an integral role in delivering the NSW Government’s ‘Resilient Towns Initiative’.
Chris Blake, Community Projects Officer, explained that the free community training courses offered in the renovated room, such as ‘White Card’, First Aid, Responsible Control Gambling, and Responsible Service of Alcohol, have significantly enhanced the community’s capabilities.
Blake stressed that the Hyne Community Trust grants were an enabler for the club, providing a ‘hand up’ rather than a handout, ensuring lasting benefits for the broader Tumbarumba community.
“The Hyne Community Trust grants were an enabler for the club. It is a ‘hand up’, not a handout as we are committed to ensuring lasting benefits are delivered for the broader betterment of Tumbarumba.”
Chris Blake, Community Grants Officer
Application Process and Guidelines
To date, the Trust has provided almost $600,000 in grants to the area.
Community groups interested in applying for a Hyne Community Trust grant this month must review the guidelines available and consider how their application will offer long-lasting benefits to the community.
Projects must be valued at over $10,000 to meet the criteria. The 2023 round of grants closes at the end of June, with successful applicants to be notified in July 2023.
For more information, email tumbatrust@hyne.com.au.
- To find out more about the Tumbarumba Golf Club project, visit the Hyne Timber website.
