Punters help community groups

5/7/04
Charities and local groups today hit the jackpot when $100,000 of unclaimed winnings at Burswood Casino was distributed to them.
Racing and Gaming Minister Nick Griffiths announced six organisations would receive the money under the 2004 Gaming Community Trust Program.
"The money credited to the trust fund is derived from unclaimed winnings at Burswood Casino, mostly from the game of Keno," Mr Griffiths said.
"The trust invited applications from registered charities, community-based organisations and local governments for funding to undertake projects or initiatives that would benefit the Western Australian community."
The Minister said the trust had received more than 100 applications of a high standard for a number of worthy projects which, collectively, sought funding in excess of $10million.
"Unfortunately, this amount was well in excess of the financial resources available to the trust," he said.
The funding includes up to:

• $12,000 to Green Skills Inc to purchase a movable worm-farming unit for the On Farm Worm Farming project. The project provides strategic support to the development of a self-sustaining and employment-creating enterprise within two years;

• $34,300 to TS. Vancouver Naval Cadets to purchase a vessel to conduct water and boating training for the youth of Albany; and

• $17,780 to the Shire of Mt Magnet to construct a recreational shelter at the 'Wongi Ground' to provide cover, seating and drinking fountains for users of the skate park, basketball courts and oval.

"It is vital that we ensure this money is diverted to important initiatives that will benefit the whole community," Mr Griffiths said.
Minister's office: 9222 8950