Community organisations have risen to the occasion during the COVID-19 health emergency and proven once again the vital nature of the services and support they provide, Don Punch MLA, Member for Bunbury said.

“The essential nature of community organisations is being recognised by Lotterywest and the relief funding it is providing, and I am very pleased to see some of those funds flowing to Bunbury”, said Mr Punch.

“Three Bunbury based organisations, Advocacy WA, the Dolphin Discovery Centre and Doors Wide Open are amongst the most recent beneficiaries of Lotterywest relief funding and between them are sharing almost $250 000 of support.

“The Dolphin Discovery Centre has been awarded $150 917 to help it address the financial impacts of COVID-19 and this substantial funding is reflective of just how important this local icon has become to the social, cultural and economic life of our community.

“Doors Wide Open are being supported to continue the vital services they provide to people experiencing substance abuse as well as the family members and loved ones of people living with addiction through a grant of $26 824.

“Advocacy WA work hard to protect and defend the interests of some of the most vulnerable people in our community so I was very pleased to see the organisation has received $70 280 to continue its work through this challenging time.

“For many people in our community the period of the COVID-19 emergency has been characterised by isolation, fear and uncertainty and in this environment the value of our community sector to support people who may not have their own networks to rely on is undeniable.

“The decision of the McGowan Government to direct Lotterywest funding to the community, arts and not for profit sectors has meant hard working organisations, many of whom rely on volunteers, have been supported and respected for the work they do making our communities places we love to live.”