Woodies get fund to upgrade kiln

By Jennifer Kent

The Blackall Range Woodcrafter’s Guild, also known as the ‘Woodies’, has been bringing together woodworkers from all walks of life who share a passion for the craft.

For 26 years, the group has used their free time to access timber and tools, giving back to those in need.

The ‘Woodies’ have now been recognised for their compassion and skill by Sunshine Coast Council Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston, who awarded them a discretionary grant of $2000 to upgrade their solar kiln.

At the first ever Ordinary Meeting at the Sunshine Coast City Hall, the Woodies presented a hand-made gavel set to

Council as a token of appreciation.

Cr Johnston praised the Woodies for their commitment to making a difference in people’s lives and donated hundreds of wooden toys to the Salvation Army Christmas Toy Appeal over the years.

The Blackall Range Woodcrafter’s Guild President Julie Breen stated that the guild appreciates the support they have received from the Council and the upgraded kiln has members excited to showcase their talent.

Community groups can seek Major Grant funding for projects or events that meet an identified need and provide local community benefit. The next round is open until March 13.

Community groups urged to apply for grants

COMMUNITY groups wanting to undertake projects and programs or needing upgrades to their facilities are invited to apply for a Major Grant from the Sunshine Coast Council.

The program offers grants of up to $30,000 and supports community organisations to deliver one-off projects, events and activities that align with council’s strategic priorities and demonstrate a community purpose.

Over $500,000 in funding is available in this round, which closes on March 13, 2023.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

An unsatisfying work environment suggests that many Aquarians need a change. The unease may stem from within, but it’s more likely that you’re disillusioned with what’s happening around you. You can either surrender and fall in line, or leave. Or put last year’s retraining to use - find a challenging position, with a salary to match.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

Some people just can’t help interfering in others’ affairs, and no doubt you’ve met a fair few of them in your time. What’s more, their intrusion probably tested your patience to its limits. Remember this: if you find yourself becoming a tad too curious about matters that really don’t concern you –mind your own.

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

This week gets off to a bumpy start. But if you want to keep certain contacts or friendships, you’ll have to work on your diplomacy. As much as it sticks in the throat, say nothing - even if your arguments are valid. By week’s end, karmic plus-points should return a happier state of mind - with alliances intact.

To help community groups with their funding applications, the council is offering a series of free 90-minute grant writing workshops and webinars in February.

These sessions will provide participants with the opportunity to learn about the council’s grants program and what makes a winning application.

The workshops will cover topics such as grant eligibility, co-funding requirements, project planning, and grant writing tips.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

Few can match your exuberant love of life, though you can be equally prone to stress. And when you feel low, food is a favourite refuge. The problem? The crash dieting that follows, which plays havoc with an already sensitive system. Keep this week’s pleasures safe and simple. Upside: a reunion or happy news from the past.

GEMINI

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

While others map out a clear path for the oncoming week, many Geminis seem to be blindfolded. Along with a lack of clarity comes a vulnerability to deception. Don’t rely too heavily on outlandish promises and, if you’re disappointed, leave the intoxicants alone - they’ll only blur things more.

Cancer

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

You might feel great, but others could be right in assuming that you’re heading for a bit of a fall. Hopefully, they’ll regard this uncharacteristic arrogance as a minor blemish in an otherwise loveable person. But don’t push your luck - these people are your safety net. An issue initiated a year ago could also head to its natural conclusion.

Eligible not-for-profit organisations can apply for up to $15,000 for one-off projects that meet community needs and provide community benefit.

Up to $30,000 is available for infrastructure projects that improve facilities for the community.

In addition, Environment Levy Grants of up to $5,000 are available for projects that make a positive contribution to the region’s biodiversity and waterways.

Community Portfolio Councillor David Law encouraged local groups to take advantage of the program and to help achieve the council’s vision of being “Australia’s most sustainable region: healthy, smart, creative.”

The round opens on February 1, 2023 and closes on March 13, 2023. The grant writing workshops and webinars are being held from February 13 to 24, 2023. Notifications are anticipated in mid-May 2023.

Community groups can register for the workshops and webinars on the council’s website.

Apply now to make a positive impact on your community.

LEO

JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

We don’t know which planet you’ve been bribing, but someone up there’s looking after you. Even if you manage to put a foot wrong, it’s a fair bet that there’s a cosmic minder around to steady you. Still, you deserve the extra fuss - right now, you’re proving to be a great asset in others’ lives. And they’re grateful.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

A spirited cosmos fires you with extra energy to tackle challenging tasks. Persevere, and a momentous week is likely. You’re confident in your abilities and clear in your ambitions. Initiate new projects, as goals may now be reached in a fraction of the usual time. And if you feel inclined to mix business with pleasure, why should the planets object?

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

Expect a ridiculously busy week, Libra - but you really weren’t built with this kind of workload in mind. Just don’t get locked into the momentum of a project to the point where you can’t stop for the odd breather. Keep your head together and refuse all requests to increase the pressure. You deserve a more relaxed life.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

You’re an incendiary waiting to explode, although it might take someone else to light the fuse. It’s often a case of the older we grow, the less inclined to extend the hand of unconditional friendship. But, right now, there’s every chance you’ll cement an alliance that’s built to weather the years. Stay open-minded.

Sagittarius

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

If you’ve placed someone in the centre of your ideal picture, you might find that the person doesn’t quite match the cosy frame. Love may well be blind, but you’d be silly to turn a deaf ear as well. However, before you start blaming others for your sabotaged dream, try lowering your expectations.

Capricorn

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

We all like to think we’re in total control, but life has a perverse knack of reminding us just how vulnerable we can really be. This week, you can forget about easing into that old suit of armour. Everyone knows where your heart lies, so you needn’t pretend it’s not beating. If lucky, Venus throws you some tickets for an intimate getaway.