Community groups in Cook are set to receive more than $137 000 from the Queensland Government via the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, according to MP, Peter Lawlor.


“Community groups work hard year-round providing important services to people in the region and this funding will be a welcome and well-deserved boost to their efforts,” Mr Lawlor said.


“The money will go towards equipment and services identified by these groups as a priority for their region.”


Under the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, a percentage of state revenue raised from gaming activities are used to offer grants of up to $35 000 to assist community organisations.


Since its inception, more than 37 000 applications have been funded, totalling more than $461 million. 


Mr Lawlor said community groups and not-for-profit organisations could apply for funding online through the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation’s (OLGR) website.


“It’s easy to jump online and submit an application. I encourage more groups to apply online in the next funding round, which closes on 30 November 2010.”


Mr Lawlor added community groups and not-for-profit organisations could also apply for solar energy grants through the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.


“Guidelines for this are also available on the OLGR website so organisations interested in going solar should explore this option.”


To apply for community benefit fund grants, visit the OLGR website.