The funding has been secured with the assistance of Council staff under the Australian Government’s 2022-23 Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program.
The grant will facilitate the refurbishment of the men's toilets, a much-needed update that ensures the continued service and wellbeing of our valued veteran community at the Top of the Yorke.
“Even though the Council is not financially contributing to this project, we're honoured to have provided support in the grant proposal process,” said Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope. “The support we provided is about our commitment to the health, wellbeing and dignity of our veterans and community members.”
The Bute RSL has been a central part of the local community since its establishment in 1919, operating out of a building that dates back to 1884. Located on High Street, Bute, the RSL has a proud and chequered history, symbolised by the Honour Roll in the Soldiers' Memorial Hall. Many of the brave men and women whose names grace this roll once enlisted at the Bute RSL.
The Australian Government's Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program is designed to improve the independence and quality of life of veterans. It provides funding to sustainable projects that enhance health and social wellbeing, raise awareness on important issues faced by the veteran community, and potentially expand on existing services.
This year, the Federal Government has committed more than $5.5 million in grant funding to support the veteran community.
“I’m pleased to announce that 57 organisations, including the Bute RSL, have been awarded a share in $3.5 million to support veterans and their families,” said Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh.
In addition to the Bute RSL's substantial grant for facility improvements, a host of other deserving South Australian organisations have also been awarded funding under the 2022-23 Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program.
The Willunga District sub-branch of the RSL has been granted $29,985 for the renovation of its men's toilets, mirroring the grant awarded to the Bute RSL.
The Largs Bay sub-branch RSL will use its $19,000 grant to upgrade existing electrical wiring in its facility, promoting safety and functionality.
The RSL Mannum sub-branch received a significant grant of $146,098.40 for minor building works, including fit-out, toilets, kitchen, and disabled toilets.
RSL Care South Australia has been granted $36,200 for a utility vehicle to support the Andrew Russell Veteran Living Program, offering mobility support to the organisation's activities.
In total, the Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program has distributed $432,481.40 to nine organisations in South Australia for 2022-23, including to Bute RSL.
While awaiting the finalisation of building consent documentation, planning and development for the Bute RSL refurbishment project is set to get underway soon.