Funding boost for local community groups

ENGIE’s Jacqui Niemand (centre), with Robert Marmont and Bob Dugal from CA4SE Hay. Image: The Riverine Grazier / Kimberly Grabham.

By Kimberly Grabham

ENGIE has awarded over $40,000 in sponsorship funding, distributed across 13 community groups and organisations in Hay, following the launch of The Plains Renewable Energy Park Community Sponsorship Program in May.

The establishment of a Native Garden and Bush Tucker Demonstration Site and supporting a men’s mental health weekend are among the inspiring and important projects to benefit from the Community Sponsorship Program.

ENGIE Head of Stakeholder Relations, Jacqui Niemand, said it was great to receive so many applications for the first round of sponsorship.

“The Plains Community Sponsorship Program is just one of the ways ENGIE is partnering with the community to deliver projects and events that bring people together and enhance what’s great about Hay,” says Mrs Niemand. Paraway Pastoral Company contributed funding to ENGIE’s Program and participated in the selection panel.

Paraway CEO, Harvey Gaynor said, “We are very pleased to support ENGIE’s Sponsorship Program and the community projects that will benefit.”

As part of the program, Hay Plains Landcare will receive funding to establish a Native Garden and Bush Tucker Demonstration Site.

Spokesperson for Hay Plains Landcare, Jenny Dwyer, said Hay Plains Landcare is committed to developing its Native Species Demonstration Site adjacent to the Hay Gaol.

“Thanks to ENGIE’s 2023 Community Sponsorship Program we have $5000 to go towards a Native Garden and Bush Tucker section, where the community will be able to learn about native garden and bush tucker species that are suited to our climate by enjoying the garden, and by being involved in activities on-site, including workshops and open days,” said Mrs Dwyer.

Another successful recipient was the Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC), where the funding will support a men’s mental health weekend.

“Hay LALC is very happy and pleased to accept this sponsorship which will help deliver a men’s mental health workshop weekend for Aboriginal men out on country later in the year.

“Thank you for the donation,” said Tara Dixon from the Hay LALC.

Hay CASE (Community Action for Suicide Elimination) also received $5000 to train more local community members in the recognition of mental health issues.

“Hay CASE is most appreciative of the financial support given by ENGIE to enable CASE to continue its important work in the education and training of local community members with regard to recognition of mental health issues in Hay,” said CASE Secretary Robert Marmont.

Mrs Niemand congratulated the applicants and said the sponsorship will go directly back into the community.

“I want to congratulate each of the recipients on their successful applications and for their contribution to their communities, which we at ENGIE are very proud to support.”

Further information about the project can be found at engie.com.au/the-plains.