By MEGAN OGLE
THE local Vietnam Veterans Association’s social calendar is about to be a lot busier with the group receiving a grant this week to help boost social and outdoor activities.
Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss announced this week the Noosa sub-Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia will receive a $5946 grant through the Federal Government’s Veteran and Community Grants (V&CG) program.
The grant will help the Association to buy two branded marquees, four folding tables and up to 40 chairs which will allow the club to host a greater range of activities for members.
Vietnam Veterans Association member Bruce Wilson said the branded equipment will help the group to raise their public profile within the community.
“We used to borrow a gazebo when we were fund-raising or selling our merchandise and I noticed that people would always ask what we did with the funds or who we were,” Mr Wilson said.
“I approached the Government to see about getting our own gazebo so our members can feel proud to be Vets and so people in the community can recognise us when we are fund-raising or selling merch.”
The local Noosa club’s primary aim is to look after its 40 members who attend activities and outings as a way of reintegrating back into the community after suffering from various war-traumas.
The club also gives back to the local community in a big way, having recently been the driving force behind a fund-raising campaign for the Laidlaw family, raising over $25,000 for a Smart pup for the family’s son Ziggy.
Mr Truss said the group was deserving of the grant due to their continued contribution to their local community and country.
“Australia’s veterans have served their country with pride and distinction, securing peace and freedom for our nation,” Mr Truss said.
“Many veterans continue to help others and strengthen their communities. This grant is one way in which we show our respect for their service to our country and support their ongoing contributions to the community.”
