The Hills Shire ClubGRANTS Award Presentation was recently held at Castle Hill RSL Club, recognising the incredible efforts of local organisations and community groups working to make a difference across The Hills.
ClubGRANTS is one of Australia’s most extensive community funding programs, established to ensure Registered Clubs in NSW contribute to services in their local areas.
Over many years, CHRG has played a key role in supporting The Hills community by providing essential funding, resources and assistance across diverse areas. These include veteran welfare, healthcare, child and family support, aged care, disability and youth services, education, cultural and sporting programs.
The Hills Shire ClubGRANTS Award Presentation recognised over 20 organisations for their outstanding contributions to the community. Among those recognised were RuffTRACK Limited, Stronger Together Foundation, Royal Life Saving NSW, CareFlight and Run Against Violence, each making an extraordinary impact in their field.
Local leaders and community representatives attended the presentation, including Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne, Deputy Mayor Councillor Frank De Masi and CHRG Directors, Vice Presidents Rick Cumming and Mike Yeo.
Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne highlighted the importance of recognising both the community groups and the clubs that support them. “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. 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.”
The program is divided into two categories, Category 1 supports welfare, health, employment and community projects for disadvantaged groups, while Category 2 assists with sport, recreation, cultural activities and in-kind community support.
Among the organisations supported was RSL LifeCare, which provides care and services to veterans and seniors across NSW, ACT and QLD. Brett Adams, Hawkesbury Veteran and Family Hub Manager, expressed his gratitude “A huge thanks to Castle Hill RSL Club for the amazing support shown via the Hills Shire ClubGRANTS. 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 deliver its Mentally Fit program in primary schools. Fundraising Consultant, Don Tilly, stressed the importance of early intervention. “This is about giving children the opportunity to develop strategies, find people they can talk to and understand they are not alone. It’s vital to start in primary schools, because 50% of mental health issues emerge before the age of 14.”
The event not only celebrated the work of local service providers but also highlighted the crucial role that clubs continue to play in building stronger, safer and more resilient communities.
