A multi-million dollar roads package reached between the Australian and Queensland governments will help reduce congestion and time out on the road for commuters from the Bonner area, Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said today.

“I’m pleased to see the Federal and State governments have come to an agreement and have committed more than half a billion dollars in funding for major road infrastructure projects in South-East Queensland and Central Queensland,” Mr Vasta said.

“This includes long-awaited upgrades for the M1, in particular the widening of the M1 from four to five lanes from the Gateway Motorway merge past the Rochedale Road off-ramp at Eight Mile Plains.

“I have had many constituents who use the off-ramp share with me their frustrations over congestion in the area. I’m happy to be able to tell them that the vital upgrade of this section is now due to begin before the end of the year.”

Early works on the M1 Gateway Merge project are expected to commence in November 2017 with major construction to begin following the Commonwealth Games.

The newly-announced Queensland roads package also includes:

• Six-laning of the Pacific Motorway (M1) – Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes 
• Construction of the Walkerston bypass near Mackay 
• Upgrading of the Mt Lindesay Highway between Browns Plains and Beaudesert 
• Funding for the planning of the M1 – Varsity Lakes to Tugun. 

Last year I spoke here about important projects in my electorate the Coalition Government has committed to support. Today I’d like to update the Chamber about two projects that will boost sports and tourism in Brisbane’s bayside area. I’m pleased to report that work is progressing well at the Wynnum Manly Seagulls Clubhouse and the Moreton Bay Discovery Centre.

My flagship commitment last year was to the Wynnum Manly Seagulls for a much-needed upgrade of their dressing rooms. The Coalition pledged $400,000 in funding which has since come through. The Wynnum Manly Seagulls Football Club CEO, Hanan Laban, has told me the project is now ahead of schedule.

This is excellent news for local football and sporting groups in the bayside area. Hanan was kind enough to give me a tour of the project site last year. He told me footy and sports groups of all ages use their dressing room facilities. The project will open up access to many more groups, including women’s sports groups thanks to the addition of female changing stalls and facilities. 

I’m proud to have delivered for the Wynnum Manly Seagulls Football Club, a not-for-profit organisation that relies on community support to operate. The project will make the clubhouse a sporting hub for the community and bring more people to the bayside area. I can’t wait to be there for the grand opening next month.

Another project that will attract more visitors to the bayside is the extension of the Moreton Bay Discovery Centre at Manly Harbour Village. The Coalition has committed $450,000 to the centre to construct an extension that will house the Moreton Bay Discovery Museum. The deed of agreement for the project has now been signed and work is expected to be finished by the end of the year.

Chair of the Moreton Bay Discovery Centre, David Farley, tells me the Moreton Bay Discovery Museum will house displays showcasing the natural, social and cultural history of Moreton Bay. It’s a great addition to the new Wynnum Manly Visitor Information Centre and Jetty Café at William Gunn Jetty, and will help attract more tourists to the area.

I can’t wait to see these vital projects completed. I’ll continue to provide updates on these projects and others in my electorate as they progress.

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, today confirmed a Turnbull Coalition Government commitment of $185,000 announced last year for the Australian Academy of Martial Arts Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Club (AAMA).

“I’m pleased to announce that the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development has approved this funding for AAMA’s new dojo,” Mr Vasta said today.

“This grant has enabled AAMA to secure a site at Mt Gravatt for their new dojo. It’s a great boost for the club and the community. People of all ages will now have better access to karate and other health and wellness programs offered by AAMA.”

AAMA will use the Federal Community Development Grant to refurbish and further develop the former Girl Guides Hut in Carson Lane at 1873 Logan Road, Upper Mt Gravatt.

President of AAMA, Dr Lyndon Kurth said the club was delighted to have its application accepted.

“As a volunteer operated, not-for-profit, community sports club, the AAMA Karate Club has been fortunate to have the support of three levels of government: Councillor Steven Huang, State parliamentarian Ian Walker, and Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta,” Dr Kurth said.

“When the new dojo is constructed on land leased from the Brisbane City Council, the operating costs of the Club will be significantly lower. The club plans to lower its tuition fees and make its programs more accessible to the community.”

This year AAMA will be celebrating its 45th year as part of the Mt Gravatt, Wishart and Mansfield community.

Community organisations in Bonner are encouraged to apply for a grant of up to $5000 to assist the work of their volunteers.

Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, said the funding is being provided under a $10 million Volunteer Grant funding round, announced by the Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter.

“This funding is a key part of the Australian Government’s support for volunteers who give their time and energy to help build stronger, more cohesive communities,” Mr Vasta said. 

“This is a great opportunity for community organisations in Bonner to apply for a grant of between $1000 and $5000 to support the important work of their volunteers.

“Last year 12 organisations in Bonner received a Volunteer Grant, out of 5282 groups that benefitted nationally.

“These grants can be used by organisations for anything that helps with costs incurred by their volunteers, such as first aid training, background security checks or transport for volunteers who may have a disability, as well as the purchase of much-needed equipment.”

Wynnum Arts Council Inc. used their 2015 grant to purchase equipment, including a first aid kit for first responders, a computer system and colour printer, a data projector and screen, an exhibition banner and more.

“These items will enable our volunteers to effectively deliver our programme of workshops and events for our community. Our volunteers also work with other local community groups to assist with the delivery of their programmes by supplementing their resources. The collaborations with our neighbours at the Wynnum Community Centre enables each organisation to enhance the activities specific to their requirements,” said Wynnum Manly Arts Council Treasurer, Coralie Peterson.

“Volunteer grants are very much appreciated and the Government’s support must be acknowledged.”

The St Agnes Catholic Primary School Parents and Friends Association used their 2015 grant to purchase replacement chairs for their school hall and a much-needed mobile public announcement system, while the St Agnes Netball Club used their grant to provide its volunteers with the opportunity to gain the latest netball training techniques.

“The St Agnes Parents and Friends Association appreciates the volunteer grant funds, which have been of enormous help to the school. These funds have helped cover the cost of new equipment and the training costs of our St Agnes Netball Club volunteers,” said Frances Fernandez of the St Agnes P&F Association.

In opening the Volunteer Grants 2016, Minister Porter said this funding is part of the Commonwealth Government’s $28 million Strengthening Communities programme that supports the capacity of communities to address local issues. 

“Funding priority will be given to organisations working in disadvantaged communities or those affected by natural disasters,” Minister Porter said.

“I particularly encourage regional and Indigenous organisations to apply.”

Applications for Volunteer Grants close 20 December 2016. For further information go to dss.gov.au/grants.

Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Grants 2016 Hotline on free call 1800 020 283 or email grants@dss.gov.au.

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said veterans and their families in the Manly-Lota area would benefit from Australian Government grant funding for a local project.

Mr Vasta said the Returned and Services League of Australia’s Manly-Lota Sub-Branch had been awarded $37,800 to install air-conditioning at its community hall in Manly under the Veteran and Community Grants program.

“By providing funding to local organisations for special projects, the Government is helping improve the lives of veterans, their families and local communities,” Mr Vasta said.

“The dedication and hard work of organisations such as Manly-Lota RSL ensure veterans and their families receive services, support and opportunities to play a bigger role in our community.
  
“Manly-Lota RSL has a well-deserved reputation for its commitment to improving the lives of those who have served our nation and these grants are another way we honour the service and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in defence of our country.”

President of Manly-Lota RSL, Doug Jones welcomed the announcement.

“Air-conditioning for the hall will not only benefit the older ex-diggers, but also other citizens who use the hall. There are 27 community organisations that currently use the hall,” Mr Jones said.

“Temperatures can get quite hot inside the hall, so this will make it more comfortable for the people inside particularly the elderly.”

Ex-service and community organisations, veteran groups and private organisations that contribute to the health and welfare of the veteran community are eligible to apply for funding through the DVA Veteran and Community Grants program.

For more information about the Veteran and Community Grants program or to apply, visit the DVA website www.dva.gov.au/consultation-and-grants/grants or contact your nearest DVA office on 133 254 or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia.  

Hemmant Flexible Learning Centre will soon have two new General Learning Areas and associated walkways after Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP today announced a $298,312 Australian Government grant through the Capital Grants Program.

Mr Vasta congratulated Hemmant Flexible Learning Centre on being selected for the grant and said it would be in addition to the record levels of funding the Turnbull Government is investing in schools.

“These funds will ensure students at Hemmant Flexible Learning Centre have the infrastructure necessary to help them get the most out of their time at school,” Mr Vasta said.

Principal of Hemmant Flexible Learning Centre, Paul Flanders said he was pleased with the announcement.

“These additional educational facilities at Hemmant Flexible Learning Centre will be of great benefit to the young people who attend the school,” Mr Flanders said.

“These new rooms will allow for more differentiated and specialised delivery of curriculum to cater for the diverse needs of our student population.”

Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said the Capital Grants Program provides funding for non-government schools to improve capital infrastructure where they otherwise may not have access to sufficient resources. 

“The Turnbull Government is committed to improving the quality of our school education and ensuring students have access to the resources they need so they are equipped with the skills to succeed in an increasingly competitive world,” Minister Birmingham said.

“The Turnbull Government believes in an education system that puts students first. That’s why in addition to our Capital Grants Program, our record levels of schools funding will be allocated according to need and tied to a range of evidence-based initiatives. These initiatives will focus on outcomes in literacy, numeracy and STEM subjects, helping lift teacher quality and better preparing our children for life after school.” 

Further information on the Capital Grants Program can be found on the Department of Education and Training website at www.education.gov.au.

I rise today to speak on what’s in store for the Bonner community in the year ahead. All across Bonner I’ve listened to what locals want. I’m committed to delivering to them what matters most.

My flagship commitment is to the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, one of the bayside’s most iconic institutions. The club will have their dressing sheds and gymnasium fixed, giving them and the bayside sporting community the playing facilities they deserve. Other local sporting clubs that will receive vital upgrades to their facilities include:

• Mt Gravatt Youth and Recreation Club;
• Bayside PCYC;
• AAMA Karate-Do Club;
• Manly Bowls Club;
• Mt Gravatt Bowls Club; as well as
• Wynnum Bugs, to help them cover the costs of installing solar.

Mt Gravatt Men’s Shed will also receive funding to install a new solar PV system. I’ve always been proud to support local men’s sheds and their important work for the community. Wynnum and Manly Districts Men’s Shed will also receive assistance to help them install and fit out their new place at Wynnum North.

Wynnum-Manly Meals on Wheels is another organisation that does a great service to the community. They will receive funding to go toward new kitchen facilities at their Kitchen and Community Centre at Wakerley. I want to thank President Ken Edwards for his hard work on this. The new Centre is going to be a huge boost for Wakerley and surrounding areas. I can’t wait to be there on opening day.

Other local community groups that will continue to thrive under this Coalition Government include:

• Eastside Community Church;
• 215 Squadron AAFC;
• St Agnes Catholic Primary School, and
• The Moreton Bay Discovery Centre.

Under the Coalition, Bonner will receive more support through grassroots funding of community organisations than ever before.

I will continue to support my community by supporting this Government’s agenda to grow jobs and deliver real results for our local economy.

A re-elected Turnbull Coalition Government will provide Manly Bowls Club with $1.15 million in funding to go toward the installation of a shade structure for the club’s second green, which will be enclosed so that it can also be air conditioned.

Making the announcement today, Liberal National Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said the project would provide a significant boost to the bowls club and its members.

“This project will help the club build a more welcoming, protective environment for its bowls members, encouraging more people in the community young and old to take up this wonderful sport,” Mr Vasta said.

“Manly Bowls Club has been an important part of the local community for 62 years. I’m proud to support the club and its membership with funding for this worthy project.”

Secretary to the Board of Manly Bowls Club, Trevor Musche welcomed the funding announcement.

“We are finding with the harsh Queensland weather, our older participants are expressing greater preference to play in shaded area and that makes sense with the high risk of skin cancer in Queensland’s climate,” Mr Musche said.

“We are also trying to grow youth participation and we want to provide an environment which is different to other clubs and sporting codes, where we are looking after their health as well as trying to capture their mind and interest.”

“We have no doubt through the completion of this project our membership will grow significantly as more people wish to participate in a safe, friendly environment.”

A re-elected Turnbull Government will help community groups in Bonner to lower their power bills and play their part in reducing Australia’s emissions by providing $100,000 towards the cost of installing solar.

“The Solar Communities program will provide funding for groups across Australia to install rooftop solar PV, solar hot water and battery storage systems for community owned buildings,” Mr Vasta said.

Gateway Church in Carindale will receive $15,000 to assist with the cost of installing solar.

“Gateway Church provides a vital space for residents in Carindale and surrounding areas to practise their faith, while also offering valuable learning programs to young people,” Mr Vasta said.

The Coalition recognises the important role community and household solar plays in Australia’s transition to a low emissions economy with an increase in renewable energy.

“Community organisations such as churches, sporting clubs and scouts will also be able to apply for funding of up to $15,000,” Minister Hunt said.

“Around 350 community groups are expected to benefit from the expanded program, with $5 million available.”

“Unlike Labor, the Coalition is committed to tackling climate change without hiking up power bills for community groups, families and businesses and putting Australian jobs at risk,” Mr Vasta said.

“Bill Shorten’s carbon tax is a tax on electricity and will hurt community groups across Australia.”

By contrast, the Coalition is committed to supporting community groups with our expanded
Solar Communities program.

“Under the Turnbull Government, half a million households and businesses have already made the switch to solar,” Minister Hunt said.

Australia has the highest proportion of households with solar panels in the world – about 15 per cent.

The Australian Government’s Renewable Energy Target provides for an average rebate for a solar system of $3000, or about 30 per cent of the installation cost.

We have also established a $250 million Community Housing Program to help lower costs for low income families and residents through the construction of up to 1,000 new energy efficiency homes.

We have established a $1 billion Clean Energy Innovation Fund to support the latest technology which will transform our renewable energy use over the coming decade.

Only the Coalition is committed to tackling climate change without a job-destroying carbon tax.