THE Blanchetown RSL branch has been awarded a $30,000 Federal Government grant, which will go towards the installation of solar panels and various other upgrades.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin visited the sub-branch last week to congratulate the club on its successful grant application.
Blanchetown RSL president Kym Parry said the club was “very pleased” to receive the grant and looked forward to the improvements the funding would make possible.
“I suppose throughout the COVID-19 period our biggest cost was power, and while you have no income and power bills of over $1000 a quarter for a small RSL it’s pretty difficult,” he said.
“And we couldn’t afford solar panels, which the grant will help cover, so it will save us a headache in the regard.”
The funding will also be used to install air-conditioning, to replace and insulate the interior panelling of the clubhouse and to purchase
a defibrillator.
Mr Parry said the upgrades would make a significant improvement to the facility.
“All the building’s inside panels, we wanted to change them out with gyprock and brighten the place up, and do a renovation inside,” he said.
“It will make the place a bit more pleasurable inside for all the members and veterans.”
The RSL was able to open its doors back up over the long weekend, and Mr Parry said it was “fantastic” to welcome people back.
He said the club was appreciative of the grant.
“We’re grateful to the government and the Department of Veteran Affairs,” Mr Parry said.
“Tony (Pasin) is a great help to us as well and he came and visited us to celebrate us receiving the grant.”
Mr Pasin said he was “thrilled” to see the Blanchetown RSL receive much-needed funding.
“I congratulate the Blanchetown RSL for their successful application to the Federal Government’s Veteran and Community Grants Program,” he said.
“The Blanchetown RSL is an important part of the local community in particular because of its commitment to recognising and supporting those who have served and sacrificed for our nation.”
Member for Baker Tony Pasin said the grant would directly benefit Veterans, their families and the broader community.
He said ex-service and community organisations, Veteran groups and private organisations that contribute to the health and welfare of the veteran community are encouraged to apply for funding through the DVA Veteran and Community Grants program.
“The dedication and hard work of organisations such as the Blanchetown RSL ensure veterans and their families receive essential services, support and opportunities allowing them to continue active roles in their local communities,” he said.
Further Veteran and Community Grants are now available through the Australian Government’s Community Grants Hub.