Cash injection for community projects

Family day out set to raise funds for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

At the end of last year the Stand Like Stone Foundation awarded almost $70,000 in grants for 12 community projects that will help support the region.

Projects are varied and includes the Mount Gambier Fringe OutReach program, upgrading of facilities for a number of community groups, through to a mobile cool room to support disaster relief activities in the Limestone Coast.

Stand Like Stone Foundation CEO Roger Babolka said the impact of donations to the foundation continued to be realised every year with all donations invested earning income, which is then given back to the community annually through our community grants and educational scholarship programs.

“The beauty of a donation to Stand Like Stone is that 100 per cent stays local and supports this region forever, and we’re delighted to once again be able to support so many important projects and community activities for this region,” Mr Babolka said.

Fringe Mount Gambier spokesperson and artistic program manager Louise Adams said the committee were incredibly thankful to receive the Stand like

Stone funding to deliver the 2023 Fringe Outreach program.

“Fringe Outreach is an important accessibility program taking Fringe performers and art experiences out to community groups, including aged care, those living with disability, or experiencing mental health and regional foster families to name a few,” Ms Adams said.

“As a community-led and focused arts festival, it is fantastic to team up with an organisation like Stand Like Stone.”

The foundation CEO thanked everyone who applied for a grant and congratulated the successful projects.

“At the end of the day, it’s thanks to our sponsors, donors, supporters, and grant applicants that we can realise our vision of inspiring community kindness and courage,” Mr Babolka said.

2022 Successful Grant Projects

Tatiara Men’s Shed

A grant to enclose an existing lean-to on the side of the Men’s shed to protect both its members and equipment from the elements • $3609

Penola Coonawarra Music Gathering

The grant will assist with the purchase of important hygiene management equipment and supplies for the 2023 event • $5000

Penola Terra Rossa SACWA

Funds will be used to purchase an all-weather marquee to assist with and improve catering events undertaken by the CWA • $2148

Imagine Millicent

Funds will assist with the installation of a large community mural in Davenport Street Millicent • $5000

Mil Lel Memorial Park

Funds will used to replace a very old ineffective and costly heating system for the hall • $10,000

Mount Gambier City Band Hall Inc

Funding will be used to replace the original 1965 roofing on the City Band Hall (pictured) due to its poor overall condition • $10,000

Mount Gambier Cancer Support Group

Funding will support the purchase of wigs and turbans for the Mount Gambier Oncology Unit to gift to cancer clients. • $1798

Millicent United Soccer Club

This grant will enable the renovation and upgrade of the toilet facilities to ensure inclusiveness for all users of the Club’s facilities, including Club members and the wider community • $7460

Rapid Relief Team

Funding will be used to purchase a mobile cool room trailer to support delivery of catering activities during bushfires and other emergencies across the Limestone Coast • $10,000

Fringe Mount Gambier OUTreach

Funds will support the further expansion of the very successful OUTreach program from last year which takes Fringe events and activities out to the region, for those who may face barriers in accessing and participating in art and cultural events • $10,000

Millicent High School Pathways

A grant to support students at the centre in Millicent to tailor personalised and alternative education outcomes. • $807

Keith Hospital

A grant to support the Keith Hospital Future Fund. • $2403