Orange City Council recently granted more than 20 community groups and 10 proposed events, funding to help them continue to provide services and entertainment for the Orange community.
At Tuesday night's Council meeting Council voted to award more than $30,000 to community groups and $24,000 for a range of local events.
Orange Mayor Reg Kidd said he was proud Council could play a part in keeping these worthy causes going strong into the future.
The Canobolas Pipe Band received a donations for performances throughout the year
"The groups are the fabric of our community," Cr Kidd said.
"They enhance our everyday lives and especially the lives of those who need a little extra help.
"It's good that the broader community can now see which groups are getting some funding, what the funding is for and how much we're giving but in many cases it's not a financial donation.
"Often it's allowing groups to use facilities for free or waiving or reimbursing rates payments.
"There's always more requests than we can manage but I think we've reached a good balance."
Community groups which received funding include:
- Orange Preschool Kindergarten- $2,000 as a rates reimbursement
- City of Orange Eisteddfod – $600 for prize giving
- Orange community broadcasters – $2,000 for equipment purchase
- Bowen Community Technology Centre – $2,000 for an education project
- Orange Public School P&C - $1,000 for Orange Open gardens
- Orange Bush Nippers – $2,000 as hire-fee reductions at Orange Aquatic Centre
- Lifeline Central West – $2,000 for Lifeline services
- Australian Breastfeeding Association – $1,150 for equipment purchase and meetings
- Orange and District Early Education Program – $2,000
- Canobolas Pipe Band – $1,500 for performances throughout the year
- Spring Hill Recreation Trust – $488.98 for equipment purchase
Cr Kidd said the funded events would provide a variety of entertainment for Orange residents as well as boost the economy by bringing in people from outside the region.
"When it comes to festivals and events, applicants for funding have to show what the event contributes to the Orange economy and the community," Cr Kidd said.
"These events tick many boxes and I believe we have chosen to support a wide-range of community and family-friendly activities."
Highlights include:
- Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival -$5,000
- The Australian National Field Days – $5,000
- Orange Easter Camel Races – $2,400
- Redhead Hunt4HD Ginger Pride Festival – $3,500
- Mumfest – $3,000
- Orange Wine Festival – $5,000
The next round of assistance is open and community groups or events wishing to apply for funding should head to Orange City Council's website.
Camels race at the Orange Easter Camel Races
