By MELISSA MEEHAN
UPGRADED toilets, new carpets and curtains will give the Emerald RSL a much-needed facelift, thanks to almost $55,000 of Federal Government grants.
Federal Member for La Trobe Laura Smyth MP announced on Monday that the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, approved $54,894 for Emerald RSL which will help maintain and improve the independence and quality of life for the local veteran community.“The funding will help Emerald RSL upgrade their facilities,” Ms Smyth said.
“This announcement is a positive step forward, and I am delighted the Federal Government has been able to help Emerald RSL, which is a long‐standing advocate for servicemen and women in our community.”
Ex‐service and community organisations, veteran representative groups and private organisations that contribute to the health and welfare of the veteran community are all eligible to apply for funding through the Veterans and Community Grants program.
“I would like to congratulate Emerald RSL for receiving this grant. This grant acknowledges that Australia’s veteran community is a deserving group and that we should continue to support them now and into the future,” Ms Smyth said.
“Without organisations such as Emerald RSL, our veterans would not have access to initiatives that improve community care services and encourage social interaction through programs such as day clubs, Men’s Sheds and social excursions, among other benefits.
For more information about the Veteran and Community Grants program visit ww.dva.gov.au/grants or contact your nearest Department of Veterans’ Affairs office on 133 254 or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia.
