Listening, working for you!
It's been busy month between Groom and Canberra!
Here's what has been happening👇
1. Volunteer Grants
During National Volunteer week, I was pleased to announce $62,225 in funding for our local community groups to continue their invaluable work, especially at a crucial time when many of our local families, businesses, not for profit and community organisations are doing it tough.
This round we focused on Cost of Living and I was pleased to support many groups doing great work locally. It was fantastic to catch up with two recipients, Hope for our Children and St Vincent de Paul, to hear about the difference these funds will make.
2. Shadow Minister Visits
It has been a pleasure to host many Shadow Ministers in Groom recently, to show them around our wonderful community.
This month we welcomed Shadow Treasurer, Angus Taylor, as well as Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Dan Tehan, and Senator Kerrynne Liddle, Shadow Minister for Child Protection and the Prevention of Family Violence.
It was a great opportunity for our local businesses, community organisations, and residents to speak directly about what matters to them as the Coalition continues to develop our policies. Thank you to all of our wonderful local organisations for their invaluable insights on their current challenges and priorities for the future. A Coalition government will get things done for our community.
4. Politics in the Pub
It's always a pleasure to host 'Politics in the Pub' at Fitzy's.
Thank you to everyone who came down to discuss a range of topics, and let me know which issues mattered to them.
3. David Hack Classic 2024
A great day out with the family at the David Hack Classic 2024.
It was fantastic to catch up with the many organisers and exhibitors that made this such a wonderful event, and see such a great turnout of locals coming to enjoy the displays.
4. Budget Week
We needed a budget that helped fight against inflation, tackle the housing crisis and address cost of living – instead we had a ‘pre-election Labor budget’.
The people of Groom had some really simple requests: lower cost of living, investment in roads, rail and health services, but the budget failed this test. A disappointing budget for our national economy and local community.
We we've seen billions in extra spending and cuts to the regions, with most new spending going to the big cities or southern states, ahead of the election. For example, we saw $1 billion for a Quantum computer, $1 billion for solar panels, $2 million for WiFi on Sydney trains – nothing for our roads, Inland Rail, Passenger Rail or health services.
Unfortunately the third budget of the Albanese government was not about the national interest, but instead it was focused on the wrong priorities.
5. Mobile Offices
Wonderful to catch so many people at the number of Mobile Offices I hosted this month.
From Wilsonton to Rangeville, thank you to everyone who turned up to say g'day and share their thoughts, concerns and ideas.
6. Base Services
This month, Base Services launched their Homeless for a Week campaign.
We all know how hard Nat and Tiff work to support our community. This year, they’re asking for our help to raise enough money for a new facility to address the growing needs and numbers of individuals and families facing homelessness in Toowoomba.
If you’re able, please consider donating at www.homelessforaweek.com.au
7. Bluecare Facility Upgrades Opening
It was fantastic to attend the opening of the BlueCare Toowoomba facility upgrades.
With $8.9 million invested by the former Coalition government, this vital project benefits residents, staff and families by providing renovated rooms, enhanced community areas, and renewed recreational spaces.
It has been so exciting to watch this project take shape and come to life.
As always, please let me know if I can assist you with anything.
I'll be back in Canberra next week, to continue working for our community and advocating for our region.
Kind regards,
Garth Hamilton MP
Federal Member for Groom
