RACQ Foundation has pledged $2.1 million to assist sporting clubs and community groups affected by floods in southeast Queensland. RACQ CEO David Carter said 73 organisations impacted by one of Australia’s worst flooding events earlier this year have been approved for funding under the Foundation’s two grant rounds.
“As a mutual organisation, it’s in our DNA to help our members and their communities, particularly in their time of need,” Mr Carter said. “RACQ’s support of community groups and sporting clubs is in direct recognition that they represent the social fabric of our communities. From rowing to cricket, football, bowls and pony clubs – it’s where community members come together and that’s where RACQ makes a difference.
“These grants will enable groups, many of them not-for-profit organisations run by volunteers, to pay for rebuilding costs and the replacement of much-needed equipment and amenities.
“Queenslanders have shown extraordinary camaraderie and resilience in the face of heartbreaking challenges not only this year, but in the past several years, as drought, cyclones, storms, and floods have ravaged the State.
“We’re committed to being there our members, their families and communities now and through the long recovery and rebuilding process.”
These grants are in addition to a $50,000 donation RACQ made to Lifeline Queensland in March to help flood-affected community members.
Ipswich Knights Soccer Club president Troy Beahan said they’re grateful for RACQ Foundation’s financial support to help rebuild the fences around playing fields.
“Our fields and clubhouse were inundated by the recent floods just as the season was getting underway,” Mr Beahan said.
“Without the support of organisations like RACQ we’d struggle to get back on our feet but with this generous contribution our players will be able to return to the fields earlier than expected.
“We’re excited to see these works completed and get back to focusing on growing our program and welcoming more kids to the ‘world game.”
Round 2 of RACQ Foundation’s Community Grant Program is open until 7 October.
If you are a Queensland sporting club, community group, charity or an organisation with a charitable purpose and have been impacted by severe weather events this year, you can apply for an RACQ Foundation Community Grant.
