Grant for flight simulator
19 January 2021
JUST over $127,000 of grant funding has been distributed amongst fifteen community groups and non profit organisations in the last twelve months, thanks to the Sapphire Wind Farm Community Fund.
In two rounds each year, the committee distributes funds to local non-profits for the purchase of small equipment and infrastructure, renovation and rehabilitation projects, and assistance with new programs and events.
Recipient of the fund in round 2 of 2020, the 319 Squadron Australian Airforce Cadets of Inverell, used their $11,000 worth of funding to purchase hardware to build a flight simulator for the recruits.
Squadron Executive Officer, Warwick Bedford, outlined how the funds have helped benefit their organisation.
“Thanks to Sapphire Wind Farm, the Cadets are building a flight simulator at our base in Inverell. It will be the only simulator in the New England area and will be used by cadet squadrons in Moree, Armidale and Tamworth.”
“The simulator has generated enthusiasm and great interest within the cadet community and we are greatly appreciative of the funding by Sapphire Wind Farm.”
Mr Bedford says that the Simulator will enhance the aviation program, but not interfere with the goal for the cadets to become community-minded members.
“Once we complete building the simulator, it will enhance our aviation program, which inspires our cadets to pursue a career in aviation by giving them the practical experience.”
“Australian Air Force Cadets targets 12 to 18 year old boys and girls and will always provide opportunities for the cadets to grow into community minded young adults.”
The seven organisations that received funding under the last round of the Fund are:
> Swan Vale Tennis Club – clubhouse construction works – $48,418.19
> Inverell Equestrian Council – construction of storage shed – $16,532
> 319 Squadron Australian Airforce Cadets, Inverell – hardware to build a flight simulator – $11,000
> Inverell Pipe Band – upgrade band equipment, kilts and Scottish Hall – $9,042
> Inverell Showjumping and Dressage Group – portable dressage arena and jump wings – $5,868
> Inverell Rugby Union Club – grandstand seating upgrade – $5,274
> Inverell Rifle Range (R67992) Reserve Land Manager – kitchen refurbishments in clubhouse – $1,685
Applications for round 1 of the Sapphire Wind Farm Community Fund are now open and close at 4pm on Friday, 12 March 2021.
The fund’s eligibility guidelines and application forms are available at https://inverell.nsw.gov.au/building-and-development/wind-farms/sapphire-wind-farmcommunity-fund/ or by calling Council (02) 6728 8288.
Image: Pictured are Executive Officer, Warwick Bedford, and Commanding Officer, Donna McWhirter, with the members of Inverell’s 319 Squadron Australian Airforce Cadets.
For further information contact:
Fiona Adams | Inverell Shire Council | PO Box 138, Inverell NSW 2360 | 02 67288288 | Fiona.Adams@inverell.nsw.gov.au
