RATT is an inclusive organisation that runs an eclectic mix of non-sport geek subculture activities and events where everyone is welcome regardless of age, ability, gender, culture, race, health conditions and sexuality.
GVR is a registered not-for-profit organisation supporting veterans and their families based in the old Goorambat Primary School buildings.
RATT president Carla Gardner said that without financial support it could not operate.
“These grants are very important because there is no way we could have set ourselves up without access to some of the grants we have received,” she said.
“We got grants last year from Benalla Rural City Council and Tomorrow Today, which have allowed us to offer the programs we do“.
And she has big plans for where this $15,000 will go.
“One of the things we will be spending it on will be a conferencing set-up,” she said.
“So, for example, we play Dungeons & Dragons but some people might not be able to come along.
“That might be due to isolating with COVID, or having no transport to get here.
"But with the new set-up they will still be able to join in, from their own home, and play with everyone who is here.
“We can also invest in a couple of sewing machines and an overlocker for the costume group.
“And we’ll also be able to get all the source books for the various table-top games we play.
“And we are also going to get a new fridge.”
Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines recently announced the grants, with $150,000 to be distributed to 12 community groups in the electorate.
The successful projects cover the breadth and length of the electorate, and funding will go towards small capital grants for projects being undertaken by not-for-profit community groups.
Dr Haines said the grants were awarded to projects that would improve local community participation and contributed to vibrant communities.
“I’ve spoken to each recipient and I heard first-hand how these grants will bolster our fantastic community groups,” Dr Haines said.
“Clubs and associations are often the backbone of their local community, but they mostly get by on donations and volunteer contributions alone.
“I was proud to nominate each of these projects, which will make an enormous difference to the ability of our clubs to serve their communities.
“I’m looking forward to visiting each recipient to see how grants enrich the experiences of their community and members.”
If you are interested in finding out more about RATT call Carla Gardner on 0413 002 007, find the group on Facebook, or visit www.ratt.org.au
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