A $2,000 ‘find’ for Glen Innes Gems Club is sure to put a shine on the organisation’s operations for the next 12 months, with members Kathleen Batten, left, Peter Chaffey, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Philip Bolin.
Monday, 11 July 2022
A $2,000 ‘find’ for Glen Innes Gems Club is sure to put a shine on the organisation’s operations for the next 12 months, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing the State Government funding to help with operational costs, post COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr Marshall said lockdowns had significantly impacted the club’s ability to fundraise through memberships, training days and events.
“The Glen Innes Gems Club committee has put a power of work into establishing a permanent home on East Avenue over the last three years,” Mr Marshall said.
“Unfortunately, during that same period the COVID-19 lockdown stifled any opportunity for members to use their new rooms to generate income for its upkeep.
“Hearing of the organisation’s need, I took the liberty of writing to the Deputy Premier, seeking funds to ease the immediate burden.
“Pleasingly, $2,000 was made available which will be put towards insurance coverage and other expenses.
“Glen Innes Gems Club has some of the most passionate and experienced fossickers in our region, and it has been a privilege to assist this age-old art to continue.”
Glen Innes Gems Club President Chris Wallbridge was grateful for the assistance.
“This funding is invaluable to our club at this time, pandemic impacts have spread far” Mr Wallbridge said.
“Prior to the pandemic, we were reasonably financial, however with no income during the lockdown and the drain on our reserves to cover overheads, we have struggled to stay afloat.
“With the economy reopening we have a strong plan for a viable future, which focusses on club activities and the delivery of classes to the community.
“We thank Adam for securing us this funding which has greatly eased immediate financial pressures and will allow us to pursue our goals as a club.”