The Hills Shire ClubGRANTS Award Presentation has shone a spotlight on the tireless work of local organisations and community groups, with more than 20 recipients celebrated at a recent ceremony hosted by Castle Hill RSL Club.
ClubGRANTS is one of the country’s largest community funding initiatives, designed to ensure registered clubs across NSW reinvest in services that support their local communities. In The Hills, CHRG has long played a significant role in this effort, providing funding, resources and hands-on assistance across areas such as veteran welfare, healthcare, aged care, disability services, youth programs, education, culture and sport.
This year’s presentation recognised organisations including RuffTRACK Limited, Stronger Together Foundation, Royal Life Saving NSW, CareFlight and Run Against Violence, each acknowledged for their standout contributions to community wellbeing and safety.
The event was attended by local dignitaries and community representatives, among them Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne, Deputy Mayor Councillor Frank De Masi and CHRG Directors and Vice Presidents Rick Cumming and Mike Yeo.
Mayor Byrne said the awards were an important reminder of the combined effort behind community support.
“It’s wonderful to celebrate with our service providers and community groups who have received grants and to thank them for the important work they do,” she said. “It’s also an opportunity to acknowledge the role our clubs play. They are more than just hospitality venues; they are truly investing in our community.”
ClubGRANTS funding is allocated under two categories: Category 1 supports welfare, health, employment and community projects aimed at disadvantaged groups; Category 2 assists initiatives in sport, recreation, cultural activities and broader in-kind community support.
Among this year’s beneficiaries was RSL LifeCare, which delivers essential services to veterans and seniors across NSW, the ACT and Queensland. Brett Adams, Manager of the Hawkesbury Veteran and Family Hub, said the support could not have come at a better time.
“A huge thanks to Castle Hill RSL Club for the amazing support shown via the Hills Shire ClubGRANTS,” he said. “These funds are critical for the newly established Hawkesbury Veteran and Family Hub to provide practical services, social connection and wellbeing support to veterans and their families in the region.”
The Gotcha4Life Foundation also received funding to extend its Mentally Fit program into primary schools. Fundraising Consultant Don Tilly emphasised the importance of giving children the tools they need early in life.
“This is about giving children the opportunity to develop strategies, find people they can talk to and understand they are not alone,” he said. “It’s vital to start in primary schools, because 50% of mental health issues emerge before the age of 14.”
The ceremony not only recognised the achievements of local service providers but also underscored the essential role clubs continue to play in building stronger, safer and more resilient communities across The Hills.
