Growing stronger: Garden Club scores funding boost

BANDING TOGETHER: Irene Ingold, Yvonne Reznik, Richard Wistow and Gill Violett enjoy a bus trip to a Gold Coast garden. Image supplied
BANDING TOGETHER: Irene Ingold, Yvonne Reznik, Richard Wistow and Gill Violett enjoy a bus trip to a Gold Coast garden. Image supplied

The Tamborine Mountain Garden Club is set to upgrade its eight-year-old equipment after securing funding through Scenic Rim Regional Council’s grants program.

Council distributed more than $92,000 to 23 local not-for-profit organisations through the Scenic Rim Minor Grants Program, reinforcing its commitment to community-driven initiatives.

With a membership that includes many older residents, the club will invest in modern audio-visual technology designed to improve accessibility.

The upgrades aim to ensure members – particularly those using hearing aids – can better engage with meetings and events.

Funding will also go towards a new laptop and printer, allowing the club to continue producing physical copies of its newsletter for members who prefer to read in print.

Club president Gill Violett said the improvements would significantly enhance the experience for members.

“We’ve got a number of people who now use hearing aids. It’s really important that we have equipment that’s compatible and efficient,” she said.

“The technology has improved so much so it’s really helpful now to be able to have.”

The club has applied for two speakers – positioned at the front and back of its meeting space at the Vonda Youngman Community Centre – as well as a larger screen, updated laptop and new printer.

Gill said the upgrades would help future-proof the club.

“You know this will last us for a few years now,” she added.

Scenic Rim’s Community, Arts and Culture Portfolio Councillor Kerri Cryer said the grants program plays an important role in supporting local organisations.

“Whether it’s social events that keep people connected or sporting clubs that encourage healthy lifestyles, our not-for-profit organisations deliver a range of positive outcomes for our community across the region,” she said.

“Supporting initiatives that foster resilience, build vibrant communities and improve overall social wellbeing assists these groups and their volunteers to continue their valuable work.”

The Tamborine Mountain Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the Vonda Youngman Centre from 9.30am to 12pm.

For more information, contact Gill on 0409 775 657.

About Shontae Iafeta 35 Articles
Shontae Iafeta has been gaining real world experience while studying journalism. She has a great love for regional journalism and its significance to readers. She builds strong connections with the people she meets. Shontae believes people deserve a platform for their stories to be told, and lives by the saying, “Everyone has a story”.