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Supporting your community for more than 20 years

Diverse and grassroots, from Newcastle to Bega, Sydney to Canberra, Wollongong to Melbourne, each of these projects addresses genuine need in the communities we call home. Since 1999, the IMB Bank Community Foundation is proud to have supported over 900 community groups and projects, donating over $12 million to help our communities thrive and shine.
 

Congratulations to our 2023 Recipients

Every year we are inspired by the number of inspirational projects happening in and around our local communities – this year is no different. In an environment of domestic challenges and global unrest, some in our communities are doing it tougher than ever before.

With the enormous efforts of exceptional, community-minded people we continue to see on-the-ground support for Australians when and where they need it most.

This year, we are proud to announce another 55 community-building initiatives will receive funding from the IMB Bank Community Foundation. Projects this year support survivors of domestic violence, children’s wellbeing and safety, food insecurity, mental health and wellbeing for men and women, sustainability and recycling, youth education and support for Australians living with disability.

As always, we offer our sincere thanks and congratulations to this year’s recipients. Your dedication to our communities and those most in need is a true inspiration.


IMB Bank Community Foundation 2023 Recipients

Disability Access

1ST AUSTINMER SCOUT GROUP 

Part of the renowned worldwide youth development association, the 1st Austinmer Scout Group requires funds to provide wheelchair access to the scout hall. Foundation funding will contribute to constructing a ramp and compliant access, providing welcome inclusion for all scouts.

Care Packages for Food Security and Connection

300 BLANKETS 

With a decade-long commitment to serving the homeless and strategic partnerships, 300 Blankets reaches out to the vulnerable facing homelessness in Victoria, fostering a community of acceptance and respect, combating food insecurity and loneliness. Over the next year, care packages containing nutritious foods and essentials will be delivered to those in need. The initiative not only provides sustenance but also cultivates hope and community engagement..

Learn-to-Swim for CALD Women

A SPLASH OF COLOUR SWIMMING  

A Splash of Colour Swimming is a Newcastle/Hunter-based holistic organisation empowering culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women to learn to swim. The Foundation will fund a 12-week learn-to-swim program, which includes addressing social issues specific to CALD women, including body image perception and culturally appropriate swimwear options.

Expansion of Domestic Violence Support Groups throughout Australia

ADAMAS NEXUS 

Adamas Nexus supports women who have been the recipients of domestic violence and sexual abuse; now entering its fifth year of service in the Canberra region. The group focuses on post-crisis, long term support. With Foundation funding will expand visibility, engaging service providers to facilitate meetings, and acquiring more secure spaces for face-to-face engagement, across Australia.

Wool for Angel Blankets

ANGEL GOWNS FOR AUSTRALIAN ANGEL BABIES  

This volunteer-run organisation transforms donated wedding dresses into Angel Gowns for babies who have sadly passed away. Each package contains a gown or wrap, blanket, nappies, beanie and booties and a beaded keepsake for parents. Foundation funding will provide a supply of new cream and white wool for volunteers who create the cherished garments.

Batemans Bay Nipper and Junior Lifesaving Program

BATEMANS BAY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB 

One of the many effects of the devastating 2019-20 “Black Summer” fires on the Batemans Bay community was the impact on surf lifesaving participation, in particular the nippers program. As the community has rebuilt, 2022 saw a huge increase in nipper enrolments (the highest in over 7 years). Foundation funding is restoring facilities and re-equipping the club for summers to come.

Cancer Home Care Support Equipment

BAY AND BASIN CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 

Bay and Basin support people and their families in the Shoalhaven who have been affected by cancer, offering education, equipment, transport for medical appointments and further support. Foundation funding purchases two special clinical beds and associated equipment to assist people recovering from cancer (and their support carers) to remain in a home based environment.

Battery-Operated Ram

BEGA DISTRICT VOLUNTEER RESCUE GROUP 

VRA Rescue Australia helps Australians in times of accident and natural disaster. With funding from the IMB Bank Foundation the Bega District Volunteer Rescue Group bolster their rescue vehicle capability with a Pentheon Battery Operated Ram, which will complete their suite of tools to extract people trapped in vehicles after an accident.

Defibrillators Saving Rugby League Lives

CANBERRA REGION JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE

Foundation funds provide portable defibrillators to rugby league clubs in the Canberra region in case of cardio event emergency, and training for first aid personnel at each club. This project adds a level of security and comfort, protecting players, volunteers and supporters.

Look Good Feel Better

CANCER PATIENTS FOUNDATION

Look Good Feel Better workshops help cancer patients manage the appearance-related side-effects caused by cancer treatment. Trained volunteers teach participants how to manage skin redness and dryness, how to draw on eyebrows and also how to give the illusions of eye lashes if they have lost them. A local wig provider also attends to showcase the many different headwear options like wigs, scarves and hats.

Special needs equipment accessibility

COMMUNITY WORKSHED, MORUYA

The Moruya Community Workshed is a safe and friendly environment for men and women to work together on workshop activities that benefit the community. The Foundation grant provides for a band saw and lathe designed specifically for those with restricted use of hands, or psychological barrier to use of larger equipment.

Podcast Studio

CUMBERLAND COMMUNITY RADIO 

Community Radio is valuable grassroots, high engagement format that showcases local community groups to raise funds and awareness. Cumberland Community Radio services northwestern Sydney, including Parramatta, the Hills District and Cumberland Local areas. Foundation funds will renew facilities with a full suite of podcast equipment.

CAD Operation Equipment

EUROBODALLA VOLUNTEER OPERATIONS SUPPORT

The Eurobodalla Volunteer Operations Support Fire Brigade (EVOS) provides radio communications and operational support for the NSW RFS in the RFS Far South Coast District. A new computer and mobile tablet make access the vital Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system possible, providing essential communications service for commanders in the field.

Temporary Workshop Tools, Machines Supply

EUROBODALLA WOODCRAFT GUILD

The Eurobodalla Woodies Workshop provides an opportunity for all members of the Eurobodalla community to gather together to make timber projects. All skill levels are catered for, from beginners to advanced. The Foundation grant in 2023 will fund quality woodworking tools and education for newer members on their safe use. The upshot? Community and personal wellbeing.

School Greenhouse System

FOOD LADDER 

Through provision of hydroponic and climate-controlled greenhouses, Food Ladder has been empowering and educating a range of communities (including indigenous, remote, regional and more) toward sustainable, healthy food solutions. With Foundation funding Oak Flats High School will install a structurally certified greenhouse, internal hydroponic growing system, and climate control shade system, along with comprehensive education for teachers and pupils.

Walking Football

FOOTBALL SOUTH COAST

The governing body for football in the Illawarra and parts of the NSW South Coast, Football South Coast provides a range of programs for all sections of the community. Since 2022, this includes Walking Football, a form of the beautiful game for senior players and those who are unable to run due to injury or physical restriction. Foundation funding helps the program meet the expanding popularity (and costs) throughout NSW.

Frame Runners

FRAME RUNNING WOLLONGONG

Frame Running Wollongong (FRW) empowers children with disabilities or impaired balance to run, a fostering inclusivity and equality. IMB Bank Community Foundation funding will finance additional Frame Runners, designed for maximum accessibility. This transformative "Freedom to Run" experience not only promotes physical activity but also instils confidence and a sense of belonging in these children.

Revitalising Event Spaces

FRIENDS OF EUROBODALLA REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Friends of Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden develop and maintain the garden into a showcase for native plants across a vast region, with a focus on conservation, recreation, and education. IMB Bank Community Foundation support funds four versatile marquees to expand event possibilities, from educational talks to family activities. The initiative ensures the garden evolves into a dynamic hub, fostering community engagement and enjoyment throughout the year.

24/7 Helpline Upgrade

HARMAN FOUNDATION

Based in western Sydney, the Harman Foundation strives to use holistic solutions to transform the lives of people experiencing a range of trauma and living pressures. Harman Foundation’s 24/7 Helpline (1800 116 675) has been a vital connection point for over six years. During the COVID-19 surge, the Helpline weas upgraded. IMB Bank Community Foundation funds will ensure continued professional and quality support for clients in need in 2023-24.

Strengthening Community Response to Cardiac Arrest

HUNTER HEART SAFE  

Hunter Heart Safe’s volunteer healthcare team has provided free cardiac arrest response training since 2019. With over 2000 individuals trained; the team aims to improve sudden cardiac arrest outcomes in the region. Survival rates improve through prompt and effective bystander action, saving lives. IMB Bank Community Foundation funding will provide defibrillator trainers, education engagement, and more.

Support for Women with Medical-Related Hair Loss

ILLAWARRA WIG LIBRARY

The Illawarra Wig Library addresses the needs of women in the Illawarra and South Coast experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions, primarily Cancer and Alopecia. Operated by dedicated volunteers, the library recently reopened at Wollongong Hospital accompanied by an increase in demand. With Foundation support, the library will provide a further 20 wigs and 20 turbans for women dealing with the challenges of medical-related hair loss.

Recycling Hub and Education Centre

LIDS4KIDS ACT

Lids4Kids ACT is on a mission to rescue plastic bottle lids from landfill and transform them into sustainable products. Having saved 100,000,000 lids since 2019, they operate the ACT's largest recycling facility, "The Hub." This community hub includes daily sorting sessions, education workshops, and a plastic recycling micro-factory. IMB Bank Community Foundation funds will provide for an equipment upgrade, increasing efficiency and manufacture capabaility, turning more potential landfill into durable benches and tables. 

Book Fair for Suicide Prevention

LIFELINE SOUTH COAST

Lifeline South Coast, committed to suicide prevention, seeks support for their vital Big Book Fair events. Serving Illawarra, Shoalhaven, and South Coast communities, Lifeline's 24/7 crisis support handles over 30,000 calls annually. Foundation funding will contribute to expanding the volunteer base for the Book Fair’s successful operation. Purchases include volunteer uniforms for identification and safety equipment for efficient operations. The initiative is an essential part of Lifeline's objective: an Australia free of suicide.

Shine Bright Mentoring Program

LIVEFREE PROJECT

Operating in Newcastle, LIVEfree Project supports those facing domestic violence, anxiety, poverty, and neglect. The Shine Bright Mentoring program, developed with Foundation support, has achieved significant success, reaching over 500 participants. Focused on children and carers, Shine Bright provides essential skills and support to families in need. 2023's funding boost ensures the program's continuation for a brighter, safer future.

Enhancing Plotters Community Garden

LONG BEACH COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

The Long Beach Community Association (LBCA) actively engages with Eurobodalla Council on community matters. Teaming up with Maloneys Beach Residents Association, they initiated Plotters Community Garden after the 2020 bushfires. Thanks to Foundation funding, LBCA is securing the garden with fencing to protect plants from kangaroos, acquiring a tool shed, and setting up a produce table for surplus sales. This initiative fosters community learning through workshops and demonstrations, promoting food production knowledge.

Tools for Community Projects

MENANGLE MEN'S SHED

The Menangle Men's Shed provides a welcoming space for retired, unemployed, or physically disabled men to forge friendships, acquire new skills and engage in empowering projects. With support from the Foundation, the Shed will invest in new tools and equipment, including a Bobbin sander, mitre saw, table router, pedestal drill and more to facilitate the creation and repair of goods for local community use. This initiative not only enhances safety but also promotes community engagement and self-esteem among members.

Music Therapy

MORRIS CHILDREN'S FUND 

Morris Children's Fund (MCF) is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children facing severe disabilities. The Music Therapy Program, crucial for non-verbal children, cultivates social, physical, mental, and emotional development. Group sessions encourage creativity and boundary-pushing. With support from IMB Bank Community Foundation, MCF aims to ensure program sustainability by providing therapists to seven special needs schools, providing lifelong benefits, enriching the development and wellbeing of these exceptional children.

Modernising Rescue Tools

NAROOMA RESCUE SQUAD

For 44 years, Narooma Rescue Squad has been a vital responder for various rescues, specialising in road crashes and more. However, their hydraulic rescue tools are outdated. With their Foundation grant, the squad will purchase modern, environmentally friendly tools – a Battery-operated Spreader and Ram ("Jaws of Life") with lithium-ion batteries. This upgrade ensures alignment with current vehicle specifications and enhances their capabilities for efficient emergency responses.

Education Signs

NATIVE ANIMAL EDUCATION SANCTUARY 

Native Animal Education Sanctuary in the Bega Valley focuses on conservation, education, and community. With support from IMB Bank Community Foundation, the project includes educational signs and workshops to engage the community. Funding will cover professional printing, digital design, and workshop facilitation. This enhances the sanctuary's mission of promoting education and conservation in the Bega Valley.

Breakfast Buddies Program

NEED A FEED AUSTRALIA

Need a Feed Australia is a community-driven charity, with 11 years of emergency food relief and support services. Partnering with 27 organisations, including Mission Australia Health and One Door Mental Health, they extend aid to thousands facing food insecurity. The Breakfast Buddies Program provides a monthly free BBQ breakfast in Wollongong for those struggling daily. Foundation funds will ensure sustained support for vulnerable individuals and families.

Tender Funerals Volunteer Development

OUR COMMUNITY PROJECT 

Our Community Project focuses on social and economic benefits in the Illawarra, notably through Tender Funerals. With IMB Bank Community Foundation support, the Volunteer Development Program will be expanded. Volunteers are crucial for providing personalised, affordable funerals to those in need. The grant will facilitate external group-based learning, including Mental Health First Aid training, sustained empowerment for volunteers, and community engagement in end-of-life matters.

Fit for Life Program

POLICE CITIZENS YOUTH CLUBS NSW

PCYC NSW is a charity empowering young people through police-community partnerships. Operating across 66 clubs, PCYC offers safe, fun environments for over 70,000 youth members. The Fit for Life program, an early morning intervention, targets disengaged youth. Participants join fitness sessions, life-skills workshops, and share breakfast, fostering positive relationships and resilience. With Foundation support, funds will cover a variety of costs and program equipment, impacting over 7,500 youth annually.

IT Modernisation

PORT KEMBLA AND DISTRICT MEALS ON WHEELS

Port Kembla Meals On Wheels (PKMOW) supports the elderly in the Illawarra region with meal delivery and wellbeing checks. With support from the IMB Bank Community Foundation, PKMOW aims to upgrade ICT hardware and software. This includes software to enhance administration capabilities, data storage, and access to vital programs. Improved services will have a positive impact on the clients, maintaining healthy diets and independence, and mitigating loneliness.

Stitching for Community Support

QUIRKY QUILTERS 

St. Luke's Church Belmont's Quirky Quilters, part of the Uniting Church, fosters community connections among women while creating beautiful quilts and bags for those in need. Weekly gatherings provide a space for conversation, support, and creative endeavours. The Foundation funds supplies flannelette and fleece for 400 quilts - these not only provides warmth through handmade creations but also strengthens the bonds within the community.

Safe Sleep For Bubs

RED NOSE

Red Nose is a national organisation dedicated to reducing infant and child mortality rates in Australia. Focusing on evidence-based education, they provide expertise in safe sleep practices and support for bereaved families. With support from the IMB Bank Community Foundation, Red Nose aims to address the lack of culturally appropriate safe sleep messaging for First Nations families. The initiative involves distributing 50,000 'Safe Sleep for Bubs' resources, including a culturally appropriate brochure developed with input from First Nations midwives and communities across New South Wales and the ACT.

U Turn the Wheel

ROTARY CLUB OF CAMDEN  

Rotary, a global service organisation, actively contributes to causes and disasters. Locally, the Camden chapter prioritises youth development with programs like "U Turn the Wheel." This initiative targets reducing road trauma among young drivers through comprehensive education, featuring safe driving practices, legislation, insurance insights, and perspectives from brain injury victims.

U Turn the Wheel

ROTARY CLUB OF GOULBURN

The IMB Bank Community Foundation is privileged to again support the Rotary Club of Goulburn’s "U Turn the Wheel" program, which targets Year 11 students to foster road and personal safety awareness, in the aim to curb fatalities and trauma in Goulburn, Crookwell, and Yass. Funding covers student materials, aids, transportation, and lunch for an impactful initiative shaping responsible youth in our communities.

U Turn the Wheel

ROTARY CLUB OF MOSS VALE

Another "U Turn the Wheel" program collaborating with local Rotary Clubs, the Road Safety Officer, schools, police, and emergency services for workshops targeting Year 11 students. This three-day program, emphasising attitudes and awareness on road safety, addresses key issues contributing to young driver casualties. Funding supports a range of costs, print materials, and student workbooks for impactful sessions.

Inside Out Project

SAGE Community Services 

SAGE uplifts vulnerable families in Parramatta and Cumberland through trauma-informed programs. With IMB Bank Community Foundation's support, they're creating a therapeutic space. Funding will outfit the area and establish a sensory play zone, aiding children impacted by trauma. The project promotes safety, inclusivity, and emotional regulation, fostering connections within families and the community. It's an initiative to help children "regulate from the inside out," providing a secure and enriching environment.

Saving Lives

SAPPHIRE COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Sapphire Community Projects focuses on alleviating food insecurity in the Bega Valley, rescuing surplus food and fostering community connection through a cafe and mobile pantry. The project will acquire two defibrillators, ensuring safety at the Sapphire Community Pantry and Mobile Pantry locations, along with volunteer first-aid training. With a commitment to wellbeing, the project enhances social connections and addresses gaps in local services.

C3 Cares Southern Highlands

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CENTRE  

C3 Cares, operating from C3 Coffee Hub in Bowral, addresses local needs through practical support and a message of hope. Partnering with organisations like Hands and Feet, Oz Harvest, Foodbank, and Coles Secondbite, they distribute essentials and wholesome meals to those in need. Seeking to expand their impact, the project will purchase a truck for efficient transportation of rescued food, improving their ability to provide fresh produce, pantry items, and meals to a broader community.

Recovery Sanctuary

SOUTHERN WOMEN'S GROUP

The Women's Resource Centre in Bega Valley supports women with information, education and advocacy. Through workshops and essential items, they empower women who have been marginalised through a range of circumstances. The project aims to establish a trauma-informed 'Recovery Sanctuary'. The sanctuary will be a healing space, fostering recovery, mental wellbeing, and resilience through workshops and activities. Funding will cover landscaping, carpentry workshops, sound healing sessions, and project administration fees.

Little First Aiders

ST JOHN AMBULANCE AUSTRALIA ACT  

St John Ambulance ACT, serving Canberra since 1927, is dedicated to community wellbeing through first aid services and education. Their initiative, "Little First Aiders," expands first aid education for children. The online platform offers interactive modules for different age groups, promoting vital life-saving skills. Foundation funding will cover a range of costs, ensuring accessible and engaging first aid education for primary school students.

Security at Women’s Crisis Centres

SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION AND HOMELESSNESS SERVICES SHOALHAVEN ILLAWARRA (SAHSSI)

SAHSSI is a not-for-profit homelessness service, aiding women and children affected by abuse in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. In the past year, they supported 1445 women facing domestic violence. To bolster security at crisis accommodations in Dapto and Nowra, their Foundation grant will fund advanced video systems This project ensures the safety of residents and staff, creating a secure environment for successful transitions and facilitating police intervention when needed.

TeenSafe Program

SURFAIR MOTOR SPORTS CLUB

Teensafe, a safe driver education initiative for L and P plate teen drivers, stands out by providing hands-on training in the club's fleet of cars. Conducted at Moruya Speedway, the one-day course, typically during school holidays, ensures practical experience with trained instructors. Foundation funding will support the maintenance of the vehicle fleet and cover a range of costs, plus instruction to promote safe driving habits among young drivers.

Communication Infrastructure

TOWAMBA RURAL FIRE BRIGADE

Dedicated to serving its community in NSW, the Towamba Rural Fire Brigade aims to establish a base station for crucial communication during firefighting operations. The base station will ensure seamless coordination between firefighters in the field and those at the shed. Additionally, Towamba radio 88FM will be utilised for community updates. The grant will facilitate the purchase and installation of this vital base station in the Fire Shed office.

Learning in Retirement

U3A WOLLONGONG

U3A Wollongong aims to improve learning opportunities for retired individuals through the development of learning packages. These packages, utilised by the U3A Tech Team, will train members in research, design and presentation skills, encouraging an engaging learning environment. Foundation funds have secured IT equipment, including a computer, printer, software, and a portable media player.

Heart Health Tour

VICTOR CHANG CARDIAC RESEARCH INSTITUTE

The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute (VCCRI) endeavours to combat heart disease, guided by the legacy of Dr Victor Chang. Now in its 12th year of Foundation funding, the Heart Health Tour, a portable service, offers free testing for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, coupled with education on heart-healthy habits. In 2024 the tour will have 14-stops across NSW, and the ACT, prioritising community locations.

Workplace Upgrade

VOLUNTEER MARINE RESCUE NSW

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW plays a critical role in water safety and emergency response. Marine Rescue Narooma requires ergonomic furniture, particularly 24-hour or Control Room Chairs, tailored for Radio Operators. This investment not only prioritises the health and wellbeing of volunteers during extended shifts but also enhances their focus and efficiency during critical emergency operations. Foundation support ensures a safer and more effective working environment for those dedicated to saving lives on the water.

New Side-by-Side Vehicle

WANDA SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

Wanda Surf Life Saving Club is committed to beach safety and an inclusive surf club culture. A new Side by Side Vehicle (SSV) is instrumental for rapid emergency responses, carrying essential lifesaving equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. The current SSV, exposed to harsh coastal conditions, is over four years old and needs replacement. Foundation funds will directly contribute to coastal safety, and assist in the inclusivity programs for the diverse volunteer lifesavers at Wanda.

Comfort for Those in Need

WARM BLANKETS FOR EVERYONE

Warm Blankets for Everyone (WBFE) is a charitable organisation, dedicated to crafting warm blankets from recycled materials for vulnerable individuals in the community. With over 100 volunteers, WBFE distributes around 2,250 blankets annually through local charities. Foundation funds purchase polar fleece for backing, a critical component for creating these comforting blankets.

Caring for Kids

WESTON CREEK MEN'S SHED

Weston Creek Men's Shed nurtures social bonds and purposeful activities for men, promoting wellbeing in a friendly environment. Affiliated with the Australian Men's Shed Association, their "Caring for Kids" project creates wooden items—toys, furniture, and nesting boxes. Donated to local preschools and schools, these crafted pieces bring joy while supporting community institutions. IMB Bank Community Foundation funding provides essential materials like timber, screws, glue, sandpaper and paint.

The Knitting Bank

WRAP WITH LOVE

Not-for-profit group Wrap With Love relies on donated yarn to create knitted wraps for those in need. Their "Knitting Bank" project aims to make yarn accessible to all, especially limited-income pensioners. The Foundation grant purchases quality acrylic yarn, ensuring financial constraints don't hinder Wrap With Love’s valuable support for communities both locally and internationally.

Building for Community Support

YASS VALLEY MEN'S SHED

The Yass Valley Men's Shed, established to support men facing challenges, seeks to expand its impact with a new workshop. Currently engaged in diverse local projects, the shed's existing space is limiting its potential. A newer, larger workshop with full electrical capability will enhance safety and working conditions for the growing community group.

We Can Start Again

ZONTA CLUB OF BERRY  

Zonta Club of Berry, an advocate for women's rights, partners with SAHSSI to assist women transitioning from domestic violence refuges. Currently providing home starter baskets, they will improve support by including school backpacks for children facing challenging school transitions. Foundation funding will a supply provide baskets for a year and children's backpack. Zonta Club of Berry’s provision of these essential items facilitates a smoother start to their new lives.

 

 

 

 

  2022 IMB Community Foundation Projects

Mobile Library Outreach

The Footpath Library

Anyone who loves to read knows that books can be a friend, an escape, an opportunity to learn something new, to reconnect with a story from your past, to not feel alone. The Footpath Library provides a weekly service in Sydney encouraging reading and connection through books for people experiencing homelessness. Sarah Garnett, founder of The Footpath Library, says that many of her clients say that a book is more important to them than a meal. In addition to high quality books, the weekly service provides pens, notepads, reading glasses and tea and coffee to encourage social connection. 

Frame Runners 

Frame Running Wollongong

A group of proactive parents and healthcare workers that give children with physical disabilities like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida and more a chance to run – with the help of Frame Runners. Building on the project funds received from IMB Bank in 2021, Foundation funding will help procure a further 22 frame runners, to allow school-aged children to participate in athletics carnivals. 

Light and Hope

Harman Foundation 

Established in 2013, the Harman Foundation is a not-for-profit that supports those who are experiencing or passing through a difficult period, including domestic and family violence (D&FV), relationship fractures, grief, long term illnesses and economic hardship through natural disasters or health issues. IMB Bank Community Foundation funding will contribute to the funding of Her House, a shelter for women and their children seeking refuge from D&FV in Western Sydney. 

House Cleaning Assistance Program

Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation

This Newcastle-based not-for-profit has been community funder for over 20 years, providing essential services and highest-quality support to people and families of the broader Hunter region as they journey through breast cancer. Among the range of programs HBCF run is a house cleaning service, to take the everyday labour out of the equation during a physically and emotionally taxing time. The Foundation grant will augment the program.

Wigs for Illawarra Women

Illawarra Wig Library

For more than 20 years, the Illawarra Wig Library has remained an integral part of Wollongong Hospital, helping people who experience hair loss due to medical conditions or treatment. Loss of hair is a devastating blow for many women undergoing cancer therapies. A wig or turban is offered free of cost, and IMB Bank Community Foundation funding will enable the renewal of and provide travel to the library when required.

Community Recycling Education Centre

Lids4Kids Australia

Did you know that plastic items smaller than a credit card cannot be recycled. Upon learning that fact in 2019, Lids4Kids has helped repurpose over 30 tonnes of lids. With help from the IMB Bank Community Foundation, Lids4Kids will begin work to establish a Community Recycling Education Centre and Volunteer Workshop. Volunteers, school groups, people living with disabilities and other community groups are already part of the process and this expansion as Lids4Kids becomes self-sustainable.

Lifeline South Coast Community Ambassador

Lifeline South Coast

Lifeline South coast contributes to making Australia free from suicide, empowering communities in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and South Coast by providing counselling, training, and community engagement. Building on existing knowledge and expertise, the Foundation funded project will train and embed skilled, supported volunteers in local communities to increase awareness and understanding about suicide, and create meaningful change.

Mobile Cool Room 

Lions Club of East Maitland 

In true Lion’s Club style, the East Maitland branch run barbecues year-round to raise funds for various charities and community causes, including a room at Ronald McDonald House, local care and vision support groups, diabetes care, child mobility and more. Courtesy of Foundation funding, the volunteers of East Maitland branch will now have a mobile cool room to increase barbecuing – and fundraising – capacity.

Lions BBQ Trailer

Lions Club of Wollongong

Chartered in 1957, the Wollongong Lions have provided unbroken service to the community and have raised money for many beneficiaries including medial research and national disaster appeals. A new extensive canopy on the mobile barbecue unit keeps both cooks and clients shaded while the Lions work the grill, and the patrons enjoy the results. 

Shine Bright Program

LIVEfree Project

LIVEfree Project works with Newcastle families who have or are experiencing domestic violence from their moment of crisis throughout their recovery journey. Many families are experiencing poverty, mental illness and trauma, and need support for practical needs. The Shine Bright Program is a weekly education program for at-risk students and their care givers, implementing early intervention strategies for community connect and involvement. The pilot program has achieved great outcomes, and Foundation funding will augment the offer to the community.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Macarthur Sunrise Rotary Club

Established in 19995, Dolly Parton’s eponymous Imagination Library has mailed millions of books to economically disadvantaged children around the world. Through the Macarthur Sunrise Rotary Club, children and their families in the Campbelltown and Wollondilly areas receive a book a month from the Imagination Library. The number of families in the program will increase by 50% thanks to IMB Bank Community Foundation funding in 2022.

The Man Walk

The Man Walk Australia

The Man Walk is passionate about men’s physical, social, and mental wellbeing. A weekly 45-minute stroll provides an opportunity for men to engage in regular physical activity, social interaction and mateship. Or as they call it ‘Walk. Talk. Support.’ Since its beginning in 2018, The Man Walk has grown to encompass 80 walks across Australia (and overseas). The Man Walk will use funding to establish walks in new areas, creating stronger communities by connecting more people.

Year Round Collective

The Nappy Collective

For families who are experiencing disadvantage – fleeing violence, seeking asylum or experiencing extreme financial hardship – buying nappies can come at the cost of other essentials. About 280,000 children in Australia don’t have enough nappies to stay clean and healthy. The Nappy Collective mobilises volunteers to collect and distribute nappies to those in need across the nation, delivering over 4.2million nappies since 2014. Foundation funding will expand the project in the Newcastle-Hunter. 

Women’s Inclusion

Narooma Men’s Shed

With a long history of providing on-the-tools support for various community initiatives and projects, the Narooma Men’s Shed are welcoming women – particularly those who are single and care for a property on their own – to learn skills and safety with power tools so that they can undertake some home repairs. A new set of Makita tools gives women the opportunity to enjoy the Shed’s community, including with likeminded women.

Security Camera for Vulnerable Communities

NSW Police Force

Free security cameras are provided to domestic violence victims, repeat victims of crime, and the elderly. This project was first funded by the IMB Bank Community Foundation in 2021 and proved a great success, including a custodial sentence for a perpetrator breaking an apprehended Violence order, and vandals damaging property. Further the project provides recipient of the cameras with a tangible sense of security and control over to whom they open their front door.

Community Meals and Food Security Program

One Meal – It Makes a Difference

With a mission to provide healthy food and related services to homeless, disadvantaged, and vulnerable people across greater Sydney, One Meal delivers over 2500 meals across Sydney. Foundation funding will expand the program to those in need of food support in the southern Sutherland Shire by equipping a van with the technical requirements for food transport. This support eases food-related anxiety for the most vulnerable.

Volunteer Disability Education and Resources

Pegasus 

Pegasus, also known as Riding for the Disabled, has a long history of providing physical, social and emotional support for people living with disability through engagement with horses. Over 100 volunteers work to deliver three separate programs. The Volunteer Disability Education and Resources project will engage with technical experts to help volunteers understand the range of participant diagnoses to provide a more informed, more supportive and more engaging experience for clients.

The Treehouse Cafe

Phoenix Community Project

Many young adults living with disability would love to work in a cafe, however may not have an opportunity to learn the necessary skills. The Treehouse Café is an eco-friendly training facility that provides opportunities for neurodivergent young adults to learn essential skills on their own terms, at their own speed. Funding from the IMB Bank Community Foundation will transform the café to enable training and open pathways for young people. 

Securing Job Seekers Futures

Project Displaced

When Covid left many Australians facing unemployment, Project Displaced was there to help. What began as a job search tool has now grown to become a community-based job search, career coaching and mental health support service. Project Displaced has helped more than 5,000 Australians, and with funding for a new website aim to help thousands more. 

RAISE

Project Youth

Project Youth provides wrap-around support for young people facing complex trauma and significant disadvantage, recognising that young people often need support in more than one area of their lives to heal and recover. RAISE (Recovery and Independent Self-Care and Emotional regulation) packs help support young people in continuing their recovery when not working directly with a qualified counsellor. 

Find Your Way

Radio for the Print Handicapped of NSW

Operating in Sydney for more than 40 years, Radio for the Print Handicapped provides print reading services to ensure those with print disability, low levels of literacy or social disadvantage have access to published material. Content includes reading of newspapers, magazine and books as well as other created content. The Find Your Way project aims to engage volunteers from the Illawarra to create content specific to Illawarra communities.

Wollongong Rainbow Club

Rainbow Club Australia

Learning to swim and be safe around water is an essential life skill, particularly when you live on the coast. After operating in Sydney for 50 years, Rainbow Club has opened in Wollongong to meet increasing demand for learn-to-swim programs for children living with disability. With up to 70% of participants on the Autism Spectrum, Rainbow Club requires a one-on-one approach to teaching. Foundation funding will be used to further educate qualified swim teachers to a specialised style of teaching for Rainbow Club participants.

External Awning

Rally for Recovery

Since 2001, Rally for Recovery have been working to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation. Over that time Rally has raised $2.65m for the SCHF and has also been able to donate $40,000 to the Moruya Hospital. A shop selling second hand goods to the local community is an integral part of fundraising however, operations have been impacted by recent weather events. Thanks to Foundation funding an external awning will ensure business can continue rain, hail or shine.

U Turn the Wheel

Rotary Club of Camden

With the aim of helping new and emerging drivers understand the importance of road safety, Rotary Club of Camden’s U Turn the Wheel project engages experts in a range of related fields to present to students in Camden communities. Students not only hear about vehicle maintenance and insurance but also hear directly from victims of serious road trauma. In its 10 years of operation, the program has seen a significant reduction in fatalities of young people in the Camden LGA. 

 

U Turn the Wheel

Rotary Club of Goulburn

Since 1999, the Rotary Club of Goulburn has offered U Turn the Wheel to year 11 students, with the key objective of reducing road trauma and fatality for young people in its local communities. Over a series of six sessions within one school day, students are engaged with exercises in risk taking and behaviour management as well as discussing the impacts of drugs, alcohol and peer pressure on road safety. 

U Turn the Wheel

Rotary Club of Moss Vale

Road safety program U Turn the Wheel was developed 25 years ago to help Year 11 students learn strategies to help reduce road trauma in this age group. One of the first school road safety programs in Australia U Turn the Wheel was includes sessions on road safety, enforcement and road injury information. Developed by Moss Vale Rotary 25 years ago, U Turn the Wheel continues to be an important part of high school education for older teens.

Seats and Cycles for Social Connections

Scullin Community Group

Established in 2018, the Sculling Community Group aims to build stronger community connections between residents and with neighbouring communities. A significant amount of work has gone into creating functional and warm community spaces for recipients to gather. Seats and Cycles for social connections is the next step in this journey, not only providing seating in a community space, but also a bike hub and repair shop where people can perform simple repairs and teach each other new skills.

Building a Sound Start

The Shepherd Centre for Deaf Children

For over 50, The Shepherd Centre has employed transdisciplinary services to help develop listening and spoken language, social and skills, literacy and emotional resilience for children and young people with hearing loss. The grant from the 2022 round of Foundation funding will equip a new clinic in Oran Park, in NSW’s fastest growing region: southwest Sydney. 

Concert Bands Music Charts

The Shire Bands

Music is surely food for the soul, but sheet music for a full ensemble isn’t free. For The Shire Bands, a volunteer organisation in Sydney’s south that welcomes adult learners and come-back players in a variety of ensembles, new sheet music packages offer variety to the players (who are mostly seniors) and the audiences for whom they play for free. Foundation funding in 2022 will help build repertoire and community connection. 

Solving Challenges and Reaching Goals

Solve-TAD

When it comes to living with disability every person faces a unique challenge. Since 1975 the team at Solve-TAD have used their individual expertise in engineering and trades to provide more than 50,000 personalised solutions and technology for people living with disability. With life-changing results. This year’s funding will deliver a series of online tutorials designed to improve the capacity and capability of 230 volunteers, equipping them with additional skills to help people with disabilities to reach their goals. 

Custom Built Trailer

South West Community Transport

South West Community Services provides safe, door-to-door transportation for the elderly, NDIS clients and their carers. While currently equipped to deliver their passengers to activities including medical appointments, shopping and social outings, limited space for storage restricts passenger numbers. A custom-built trailer will allow South West Community Transport to provide extra services given the increased capacity to store items including walking frames, wheelchairs and medical aids. This transportation service helps up to 6,000 people live independently while combating social isolation.

Shelves for Food

Survivor’s R Us

Founded in 2017, Survivor’s R Us supports the fight against domestic violence, homelessness, and unemployment. They do this by offering men, women and children access to counselling services and low-cost food supplies while also running an op shop to provide access to pre-loved goods. To keep up with demand Survivor’s R Us have expanded their premises. Funding from the IMB Bank Community Foundation will supply shelving to increase storage capacity for the food bank.

TeenSafe Safe Driver Training

Surfair Motor Sports Club

Over 30 years, Teensafe Safe Driver Training has regularly operated practical, behind-the-wheel safe driving courses for L and P plate drivers. Run at the Moruya Surfair Speedway, the project uses a fleet of cars and trained volunteers to deliver hands-on educational experiences every school holidays. Teensafe aims to build a better future for the community by having safer drivers on the roads. 

Sensory Spaces for Children

Sylvanvale

Sylvanvale’s Mikarie Child Care Centre is unique in that it provides high quality childcare and education to children with and without disabilities in one setting. With funding from the IMB Bank Community Foundation, Sylvanvale will create sensory spaces in each of the three age-based rooms at Mikarie. Sensory spaces provide children with the sensory input they need to self-regulate, so they can be better prepared for learning and interacting with others.

Building a Sound Start

The Shepherd Centre for Deaf Children

For over 50 years, the Shepherd Centre has employed transdisciplinary services to help develop listening and spoken language, social skills, literacy and emotional resilience for children and young people with hearing loss. The grant from the 2022 round of Foundation funding will equip a new clinic in Oran Park, in NSW’s fastest growing region: southwest Sydney. 

Standing Out in Camden

Turning Point Camden

Whether it be emergency food relief, domestic violence or homelessness support, advocacy, document assistance or simply access to a phone or computer, when times are challenging for people in the local community, Turning Point Camden welfare drop-in centre is there to help. The volunteer team will be easily identifiable at the many fundraising and community engagement events, thanks to new uniforms funded by the Foundation. 

Heart Health Check

Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute

Since 2012 the IMB Bank Community Foundation has worked with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to conduct free heart health checks for Australians, joining the fight against cardiovascular disease, Australia’s number one killer. Heart Health Checks help identify risk factors for heart health that can be modified with lifestyle and behaviour changes: blood pressure, blood sugar and total cholesterol. 2022’s round of funding will see the Tour travel through NSW and the ACT. 

AquaAerobics Program Development

WaterWombats AQUATIC DISABILITY SERVICES

WaterWombats delivers multidisciplinary health programs for people with disabilities or vulnerabilities. Occupational therapy, exercise physiology, psychology and early education all play a part in the aquatic swim, safety and therapy program. The Foundation-funded AquaAerobics program will provide small group water-based exercise for children with a disability, filling a gap in the ACT disability sector.

Trauma and Rescue Prop

Wollongong VRA

The Wollongong Volunteer Rescue Association Squad have been serving the Illawarra since 1973. Keeping on top of the latest first aid and trauma procedures requires up-to-date equipment, including dummies and props – and training. Foundation funding will keep the group’s equipment current with best practice, creating the best possible scenario to save lives.

  2021 IMB Community Foundation Projects

Iceolation 

300 Blankets

Iceolation provides essential food and supplies to members of the community experiencing issues with food security, mostly those at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness. The ongoing impacts of COVID have led to increased isolation and additional requests for food assistance. This project will reduce social isolation and loneliness by connecting volunteers with homeless persons and families. 

A Helping Hand for New Mums 

3Bridges Community

Being a new mum can be difficult at the best of times, never mind when you are facing additional challenges. A Helping Hand for New Mums supports new mothers who are vulnerable due to isolation from family or friends, a history of domestic violence, multiple births, mental health issues or disability in the family. In-home support aims to promote maternal and infant bonding, increase mothering confidence, reduce isolation with an increased access to services and connections for mothers in their local community.

Art Central Recovery 

Arts Council of Eurobodalla

Art Central is committed to providing an environment designed to enhance creative expression and encourage social inclusion and innovative community participation. With over 280 members, Art Central provides weekly classes: Art, Pottery, Aboriginal Art and Art Therapy to name a few. Funding will support the purchase of a potting wheel to support the expansion of pottery classes.

Back-up Defibrillation Machine 

Bega District Volunteer Rescue Group

The VRA in Bega are primary responders to road crash rescue and all other rescue operations as instructed by the NSW Police. The Bega VRA have been nominated to provide back-up support for the local ambulance service when the ambulance officers are out of town or busy. The project will ensure VRA can support people who have a cardiac arrest by providing CPR first aid as required and potentially save lives. 

Make our Shed Dust Free 

Bega Men’s Shed

The purpose of the Men’s Shed is to provide avenues for retired men, many who have useful skills, such as carpentry, wood turning and metal work and more, to use their talents completing projects that benefit sections of the community who may struggle to have assistance provided. Purchase of a dust extraction system will improve health and safety of members involved in construction of projects utilising wood.

Extending Working Space post-COVID 

Belconnen Community Men’s Shed

Operating in an area that shows a higher proportion of older disadvantaged people, the Belconnen Men’s Shed has around 80 members. With COVID restrictions impacting the mental health of many, membership enquiries have increased significantly beyond the safe capacity of the shed. This project, undertaken primarily by Shed members, will extend the working space to allow another 40 members to join.

Upgrading Garden 

Belconnen Senior Citizens Club

The Belconnen Senior Citizens Club provides a meeting place for older Australians to learn new activities and to socialise with a range of cultures and individuals. A garden upgrade under the supervision of a horticulturalist will engage members in replacing all existing plants with frost hardy and drought tolerant varieties. 

Flammable Goods Storage 

Bowral Men’s Shed

The Bowral Men’s Shed supports senior men from Bowral and surrounding areas, providing equipment, materials, skills, and guidance to members and carrying out projects to support the local community and charities. Most repairs and projects require the use of flammable paints, solvents and fuels. A flammable goods storage cabinet will allow the shed to increase efficiencies by purchasing these items in economic quantities and to safely store supplies.

Community Garden Trailer 

Canberra City Care

Canberra City Care maintains a very productive community garden that provides a range of vegetable, fruit and herbs to support those in need. Every week Canberra Community Care supports more than 300 disadvantaged households in Canberra. A trailer for the community garden will support work and increase efficiencies across all aspects of the garden. 

Look Good, Feel Better 

Cancer Patients Foundation

Look Good Feel Better workshops help cancer patients manage the appearance-related side-effects caused by cancer treatment. Trained volunteers teach participants how to manage skin redness and dryness, how to draw on eyebrows and also how to give the illusions of eye lashes if they have lost them. A local wig provider also attends to showcase the many different headwear options like wigs, scarves and hats.

CareSouth Health Hubs 

CareSouth

CareSouth Health Hubs provide twice-yearly dental, optical and hearing checks, as well as speech and occupational therapy assessments for disadvantaged families in Nowra, Goulburn, Berkeley, Deniliquin and Sanctuary Point, making it easier for parents and carers to access a range of free health checks in one location. 

Storage Loft and Staircase

Community Workshed Incorporation

The Community Workshed is a non-profit, non-commercial organisation open to all men and women with the aim to provide a safe and friendly environment where people can interact and work on meaningful projects. This project will provide access to a loft to enable storage of work projects.

COVID Crisis Cots and Car Seats 

Dandelion Support Network

Dandelion Support Network believes all babies and children should have access to nursery items essential for their safety, wellbeing and development. Operating from Caringbah, Dandelion provides vital support to vulnerable families throughout Greater Sydney and the Illawarra. Funding will purchase cots, car seats and essential items to support families across Sydney facing disadvantage caused by COVID. 

Deadly Young Warriors 

Deadly Connections Community and Justice Services 

Deadly Connections aims to break the cycle of disadvantage and trauma to directly address the over-representation of Aboriginal people in the child protection and justice systems. Deadly Young Warriors is designed to strengthen Aboriginal children's connection to culture, improve school engagement, provide accessible, pro-social activities, develop social and emotional skills, provide mentoring and positive role modelling as well as links to support for children and their families.

DSA Sydney "Hands On" Days 

Disabled Surfers Association of Australia 

The Disabled Surfers Association aims to put “smiles on dials” by offering safe and fun inclusion surf access opportunities for people of all abilities. DSA Sydney “Hands-On” days allow people with a range of physical challenges and disabilities from across Sydney to safely access the surf alongside volunteers supporting them in the water. 

Woodies Workshop 

Eurobodalla Woodcraft Guild

The Woodies Workshop provides an opportunity for all members of the community to gather together to make timber projects. All skill levels are catered for, from beginners to advanced. As a result of the 2019 bushfires, the Woodies Workshop and its entire contents were destroyed. Funding will support the purchase of new equipment as part of the rebuilding process. 

BLC Mowing and Mateship Service 

Berkely Life Centre

This project will provide a mowing service to the elderly, disabled and/or infirmed people in the Berkeley community as well as provide an opportunity for people on Work Development Orders to attend and work to pay off fines they have received. It will also offer an opportunity for talking, sharing and mentoring.

Healing Communities through Play 

Far South Coast Family Support Service

Play Therapy is the most effective mode of therapy for children who have not yet reached the developmental stage to benefit from traditional counselling (usually 2-10 years old). Play therapy aims to improve children's resilience, reduce or eliminate distress symptoms and support behaviour and wellbeing. This project will provide the first trained Play Therapist to support children in the Bega Valley who are experiencing trauma. 

Frame Running Wollongong 

Frame Running Wollongong

Frame Running Wollongong (FRW) is a unique community sporting service that aims to enrich the lives of children with a disability by participating in the sport Frame Running. Funding will purchase frames and equipment to support children with disabilities that affect mobility and balance to enjoy inclusive sporting games, social interaction and the freedom of movement.

Goats Creek Longboarder Gazebos 

Goats Creek Longboarders

Goats Creek Longboarders was formed in 2006 to enhance and maintain the camaraderie and social interaction between longboard surfers at Port Kembla beach. Members participate in low key, friendly and fun longboard surfing competition events and associated social activities. The Longboarders aim to offer interaction and physical activity to maintain health and wellbeing and act as role models for young people in Port Kembla. Two gazebos will assist the Club when running events and activities in the Illawarra.

Skills Building in Mental Health 

Heaps Decent 

Creative engagement is an excellent catalyst for self-expression and provides a means by which young people can tackle their thoughts and feelings. Heaps Decent works to empower children and young people to express themselves through music and multi-media projects. With many participants experiencing mental health challenges, Heaps Decent will use funding to train program volunteers in Youth Mental Health First Aid.

Connecting Hearts In Need 

HeartKids 

Every day in Australia eight children are born with a form of childhood acquired heart disease affecting three families every hour. Connecting Hearts in Need will establish eight regional hubs in NSW and ACT to support families living with congenital heart disease to overcome disconnection and isolation due to COVID-19.

Community Language Schools Learn Financials 

Hunter Parents and Teachers Association of Community Languages Schools 

Hunter Parents and Teachers Association of Community Languages Schools support local CALD organisations to deliver language and culture programs. 850 children access community learning in 20+ languages, through 28 not-for-profit organisations. This project will support over 300 CALD community language school committees to deliver training videos and webinars in multiple languages to teach fundamental knowledge of financial literacy. 

The Flame Tree Project 

Illawarra Flame Tree Project 

The Flame Tree Project is an annual music and cultural program for Illawarra students, providing music education and literacy in an engaging and uplifting environment. Original compositions are developed through collaboration between students and contemporary Australian composers, with the subsequent performance reflecting the beauty of the Illawarra, its rich culture and proud history. Funding will support the purchase of equipment and resources to support online delivery of the program.

Community Education Program 

Illawarra Suicide Prevention and Awareness Network (iSPAN)

iSPAN links community with information about suicide prevention, education and mental health/wellbeing, ensuring Illawarra communities are well informed, supported and equipped to seek help and/or assist individuals in crisis in order to prevent suicide. Funding will cover community psychological first aid training and new online bereavement and prevention resources.

Wigs and Turbans for Illawarra Women 

Illawarra Wig Library

Helping people who experience hair loss due to medical conditions or treatment, the Illawarra Wig Library is an integral part of Wollongong Hospital. IMB Bank Community Foundation funding will enable the purchase of new wigs and turbans in the coming year. 

A Lions Ute 

Lions Club of Kiama 

Kiama Lions Club’s ‘Return and Earn’ project collaborates with other charities and community groups to raise money and deliver benefits throughout the Kiama community and beyond. Funding will assist with the fit out of a Ute to be used for this program as well as other fundraising and community support activities. 

Infant View Procurement 

Lions Club of Penrith

Penrith Lions Club are supporting families in their community with the procurement of an Infant View machine for the Neonatal ICU at Nepean Hospital. The infant view is a dedicated device for neonatal and paediatric video-intubation and can be used on premature or very small babies (generally below 1.2 Kg).

Cows Create Careers 

Lions Club of Strzelecki

Hands on learning at its best. Cows Create Careers is a Strzelecki Lions Club project which connects local high schools with the dairy and agricultural industry. Students learn about dairy industry careers and educational pathways while caring for dairy calves on loan from local farmers. 

Precision Glide Saw 

Men’s Shed Narellan 

Men’s Shed Narellan is a place for men to be socially active, form friendships, allow new opportunities for activity and interaction in their lives post-work and provide support for men's health and well-being The Shed undertakes many projects for the benefit of the community. A Precision Glide Saw will assist with making furniture, toyboxes, benches and many other community projects.

Connecting Men 

Mentoring Men 

Ensuring no man walks alone, Mentoring Men helps adult men who are experiencing distress or a sense of helplessness by providing free one-to-one life mentoring with a professionally trained volunteer mentor. Mentors help men address issues throughout their lives that impact their mental health and wellbeing. Funding will train additional volunteers to combat a significant lack of early intervention programs, particularly in migrant communities in Southwest Sydney.

Multicultural Women Employment Sewing Enterprise

NAKANGO VISION 

African women from CALD communities can face language barriers to employment. Not only will this project provide women with sewing skills, it will also encourage their social and economic participation by developing pathways to employment, business skills and cultural competencies, including English language proficiency, to integrate and build community resilience. Funding will purchase sewing machines and equipment.

Table Saw Replacement

Narooma Men’s Shed

Narooma Men's Shed is about men's health. It is a place for members to meet, share their skills, enjoy companionship and build new friendships. In addition, the Shed provides services to the local community. A table saw is a pivotal part of the works program, used for 65% of community projects. Funding will provide a new table saw.

Identify our Volunteers 

Need A Feed Australia

Need A Feed supplies emergency food and personal care packs to social service organisations in the Wollongong and Shellharbour LGAs. These packs are prepared by volunteers from donations collected from local businesses. New signage and branded clothing will allow partners and clients to easily identify volunteers. 

Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB)

North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club

An IRB is an essential part of equipment for Surf Life Saving Clubs. It enables surf lifesavers to perform rescues and provide much needed first aid services quickly and efficiently and is the most effective way to search for a swimmer who may have been swept along the beach to unpatrolled areas. A new IRB will help expand shoreline patrols, and swiftly perform rescues and first aid services at this popular Illawarra beach.

Brewed Together 

Northside Community Services

A coffee trailer will provide employment and training opportunities for young people and community members within the Gungahlin/Inner North Region. In addition, the trailer will serve as a community asset conducting outreach programs to more vulnerable members of the community.

Security Camera for Vulnerable Communities 

NSW Police Force 

If you are in a vulnerable situation, not knowing who is at your front door can be intimidating. As part of an overall strategy to provide vulnerable people with improved security, NSW Police will install doorbell cameras to vulnerable households to allow recipients to feel safer in their homes and enjoy a better quality of life.

Spring into Spring 

Older Women’s Network New South Wales 

The Older Women’s Network aims to help older women live full and productive lives. By keeping women positive, physically active and socially connected they aim to strengthen health and wellbeing to allow women to stay in their own homes as long as possible. Spring into Spring will encourage women who have not been able to be physically active due to COVID restrictions to get back into activity.

The Bloom Project 

One Door Illawarra

Women who have experienced domestic violence or abuse are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, self-harm and thoughts of suicide. The Bloom Project is a wellness program for Illawarra women with mental health issues who have experienced domestic violence. It assists these women regain their dignity, confidence and sense of worth. 

Para Meadows School Learning Hub 

Para Meadows School

Para Meadows School provides specialised and inclusive education for students ranging in age from four to eighteen years of age with an intellectual disability and additional social, emotional, medical and behavioural challenges. The Learning Hub will create a new flexible learning space for students to engage in STEM projects, including robotics and Lego, and a meeting space for parents and the local community.

Enhancing Mental Health for Families 

Parentline ACT 

Parentline ACT has seen a 30% increase in calls due to family stress caused by recent bushfires and the impact of the COVID pandemic. Funding will provide mental health training for 15 volunteers in Canberra enabling them to provide non-judgemental, child centred counselling to parents and families to enhance the wellbeing and mental health of children.

Fit For Life 

PCYC Parramatta

The Fit For Life program aims to improve overall wellbeing for young people as well as divert youth from offending behaviours. It works to create better futures for communities by creating a safe environment for young people to engage in physical activity while building connections with local police. 

Teen Gym 

PCYC Parramatta

Teen Gym is a 10-week structured gym class for young people. Run by a qualified instructor, the class aims to help young people learn about and get conformable using gym equipment. The goal of the program is to connect with at-risk youth and provide a space for them to focus and be a part of something. 

U Turn the Wheel 

Rotary Club of Camden 

U Turn the Wheel, facilitated by the Rotary Club of Camden, is a comprehensive road safety program aimed at increasing driver safety skills and awareness among Year 10 students. The program covers road trauma, law enforcement, road safety and choices. It is designed to encourage participants to actively engage in reducing the risks on road for the 16–25-year-old age group. 

Replacement Side-by-Side Vehicle 

Scarborough Wombarra Surf Lifesaving Club 

Scarborough Wombarra SLSC is a Surf Club experiencing growth in membership of young local people. With a view to increasing the strength of the club and the services it provides to local community, the club is in the process of updating much needed equipment. Funding will be used to purchase a new Side-by-Side Vehicle. 

Skills for Success Mentoring 

SCARF 

Unemployment is a significant contributor to economic and social disadvantage, poverty, isolation and poor mental health among refugee entrants to the Illawarra. Skills for Success Mentoring matches local volunteers from diverse professional experiences and backgrounds with refugee entrants to the Illawarra so they can work together to prepare a plan to identify strategies for enhancing job readiness. 

Defibrillator Facility 

Shoalhaven Heads Native Botanic Garden

The Shoalhaven Heads Native Botanic Gardens attract large numbers of visitors every year, many of whom are elderly and frail, people with mobility constraints, and other handicapped people. They often arrive in organised group outings and as smaller family gatherings. Installation of a G5 AED defibrillator will improve the public safety amenity of Shoalhaven Heads Native Botanic Garden. 

Wood Shop Upgrade 

South West Sydney Men's Shed

Men's Sheds are a community investment delivering activities that foster community spirit, connect communities and contribute to building an inclusive Australia. Men's Sheds play important roles in the overall improvement of health and well-being of their members while encouraging positive engagement with the community. Replacement of workshop machinery will help maintain a safe working environment for Shed members.

Community Projects 

St George Men's Shed 

The Shed provides a venue where men, mostly retired seniors, can meet, socialise and work together either on their own projects or on projects to assist other community groups or individuals. Funds will go towards purchasing materials for members to create wooden items for community groups, schools, childcare and aged care centres, and disability groups.

Replace iMac Computer 

Southern Highlands Computer Users Group 

The Southern Highlands Computer Users Group teaches older Australians to use computers, tablets and to access and use the internet. Funding will be used to purchase a new iMac computer to support member engagement with technology including email, social media and photo management.

Suicide Prevention Workshop 

Survivors R Us 

Survivors R Us support the fight against domestic violence, homelessness and unemployment. The Suicide Prevention Workshop will help participants improve mental health literacy and develop skills to better help and support vulnerable people. Funding will provide training for volunteers and staff in suicide intervention skills and mental health first aid training.

Clever Ideas, Changing Lives 

Technical Aid to the Disabled 

Technical Aid to the Disabled (TAD) changes the lives of people living with disability by providing personalised technology, services and equipment. An online Learning Management System will enable TAD to better train and upskill staff and volunteers across metro and regional areas. These increased skills will build the capacity of volunteers to provide safe, innovative, and customised equipment solutions to help people living with a disability reach their goals. 

TeenSafe Safe Driver Training 

TeenSafe

Teensafe is a practical safe driver training course for teen L and P plate drivers to get behind the wheel with professional and volunteer instructors to learn safe driving skills. Teensafe maintains a fleet of vehicles and has been operating for over 20 years in the safe environment of Moruya Surfair Speedway. 

The Playground Project 

The Disability Trust

Many adults living with a disability are taken to playgrounds for physical exercise and recreation, unfortunately these playgrounds are too small and sometimes people of different abilities aren’t welcome. The Playground Project is an adult-sized playground providing a safe, purpose built and welcoming play space for young adults with an intellectual disability. IMB funding will support the purchase and installation of an in-ground, wheelchair friendly trampoline.

The Footpath Library (Sydney) 

The Footpath Library 

Books can have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. The Footpath Library believes that people experiencing homelessness should be able to access and enjoy a book to escape, learn and engage. The only library of its kind in Australia, the Footpath Library service encourages reading and connection through books for people experiencing homelessness, ensuring they have access to quality books, reading glasses, notepads and pens.

Equipment for New Men's Shed 

The Hill Top Men’s Shed

The Hill Top Men's Shed has just completed a new shed. A major objective is advancing the wellbeing and health of male members by social interaction and mutual help. The type of work activity includes projects for community groups and making products for sale to support running the shed. Purchase of a drum sander and large dust collection system equipment makes the Shed a viable place to work.

Laptops for Learning 

The Reconnect Project

Australia has a significant divide in digital inclusion, the measure at which a person can access, afford and have the digital ability to connect and use online technologies effectively. The Reconnect Project aims to combat this by providing refurbished mobile devices to people who otherwise would not have access to digital technology. Laptops for Learning will provide up to 50 refurbished laptops to young people who have been unable to engage in online education due to economic disadvantage, family violence, or homelessness. 

Kidscape for Deaf Children 

The Shepherd Centre – For Deaf Children 

Kidscape is a program of clinical therapy and group education, which provides life-changing support for deaf children and their families in Wollongong. Group education helps to develop the speech and communication skills of children in an interactive environment and provide advice and support for parents. While clinical appointments allow for the monitoring and development of each child’s progress. Funding will enable the purchase of sophisticated equipment required to deliver the program. 

Wheelchairs for Overseas Communities

Thirroul Men’s Shed

The Thirroul Men’s Shed has been supporting its local community since 2010. They now have their sights on providing much needed support further afield. In conjunction with Rotary Australia the Shed will provide wheelchairs, free of charge, to people in third world countries who cannot otherwise access a chair. Providing enormous benefits to recipients and their families in increased mobility and support, this project will also support members of the Shed by broadening their involvement and understanding beyond the local community.

Generator Cage and Hose Drying Rack 

Towamba Rural Fire Brigade

In recent bushfires, with fire approaching Towamba from 2 sides village power was cut off. Not wanting to be in the same situation again, the Towamba RFB purchased a generator to enable firefighting to continue even when there is no power. This funding will purchase a steel cage to protect the generator and a steel rack for drying hoses. 

Western Sydney Community Pantry Project 

Turbans 4 Australia 

Turbans 4 Australia works to support those in need in our local communities while demonstrating the value of the many different cultures in Australia. It can be difficult for people from CALD backgrounds to access culturally appropriate support. The Western Sydney Community Pantry will provide culturally appropriate food and items for people facing disadvantage. Funding will assist with the fit-out of the kitchen to provide a base for 100+ volunteers.

Heart Health Tour Takes to the Sporting Fields

Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and Heart of Football

90% of Australians have at least one modifiable risk factor for heart disease. The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute are teaming up with the Heart of Football to take heart health testing to sporting fields. Funding will continue the success of IMB’s Heart Health Tour and help to coordinate 15 free heart health testing days at sporting fields across NSW and ACT to educate communities about modifiable risk factors for heart disease and healthy heart habits.

Rotary Youth Driver Awareness Illawarra 

West Wollongong Rotary Club

This series of practical and powerful workshops for high school students challenge students to change the way they think about road safety and lay the foundation for safe road use throughout their lives. Trained facilitators work with students to develop and practise personalised strategies, which will help them respond positively to challenges on the road, both as drivers and highly influential passengers.

Folding Pedal Exerciser for Seniors 

Wollondilly Support and Community Care 

Wollondilly Support and Community Care is a service to support frail aged people and people with a disability who require assistance with daily living to remain living independently at home and in the community with their carers. Having noticed a significant decrease in the mobility of many clients, the group applied for funding to purchase low risk fitness equipment like folding pedal exercisers that will allow clients to regain mobility and enjoy themselves in a group environment.

Helmet Torches

Wolumla Rural Fire Brigade 

Firefighting duties often occur in the hours of darkness – motor vehicle accidents, bushfires, structural fires, and hazard reduction burns. Helmet mounted torches offer the significant benefit of directing light straight towards where one is looking while keeping both hands free for other purposes. 

 

  2020 IMB Community Foundation Projects

Heart Health Check Tour

Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Inc.

90% of Australians have at least one modifiable risk factor for heart disease. The Heart Health Check Booth provides free testing of modifiable risk factors including high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Convenient and quick tests aim to help people understand results and take steps to better heart health.

Quick-Fill Water Pump

Wolumla Rural Fire Service Brigade

As we saw in terrifying ways in 2020, a quick response to water needs in a fire situation is of paramount importance. The quick-fill pump will enable firetrucks and tankers to be quickly filled with water from rivers, creeks or dams saving lives and property in remote areas.

Health Hub

Care South

CareSouth Health Hubs provide twice-yearly dental, optical and hearing checks, as well as speech and occupational therapy assessments for the Berkeley community, making it easier for parents and carers to access a range free health checks in one location.

The Corner Store

Para Meadows School

The Corner Store will provide Para Meadows students with an interactive shopping experience aimed at teaching money, self-help and life skills essential to assisting students to become valued and included community members of the Wollongong region. Find out more about The Corner Shop and the Para Meadows School here.

Kitchen Upgrade

North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels

Delivering more than just a meal, the North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels team provide a friendly support service and a chance for social inclusion. A kitchen upgrade will enable a substantial increase in the volume and variety of meals produced, providing tasty, nutritious meals to support people to remain well-nourished and remain living in their own homes. 

Paramatta Mission

Lifeline Western Sydney

One in five Australians aged 16-85 experience a mental illness in any given year, and Lifeline is there to answer the call when needed. Funding provided by the IMB Bank Community Foundation will put 10 new volunteers through a 12-month training program to bolster the number of volunteers providing support for those in need.

Ocean Live Community Beach Safe

Ocean Live Systems 

Ocean Live delivers Smart Sign display boards for beaches, to highlight risks to swimmers such as rips, sandbanks, and sharks using smart technology. The Smart Signs have been developed by 19-year-old Jackson Harrigan, and are now set to be rolled out on Wollongong beaches thanks to IMB funding. A big congratulations also goes to Jackson who has been named IMB Bank Community Foundation’s Future Hero for 2020.

Illawarra Wigs and Turbans

Illawarra Wig Library 

Helping people who experience the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment, the Illawarra Wig Library is an integral part of Wollongong Hospital. IMB Bank Community Foundation funding will enable the purchase of new wigs in the coming year.

Surf Rescue Trailer

Port Kembla SLSC 

IMB Bank Community Foundation has a long and proud history of helping surf lifesaving clubs. This year, Port Kembla SLSC will receive funding to design and create a new, improved Surf Rescue Trailer, ensuring that the resources the surf lifesaving crews need are easily on hand for any emergency. 

Inflatable Rescue Boat

Fairy Meadow SLSC

Since the 1980s, the Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB, or “Rubber Duck”) has been a staple of the surf lifesaving clubs’ toolkit. In time for the busy summer, popular North Wollongong beach Fairy Meadow SLSC will receive the necessary funds for a much-needed new IRB. 

Canberra PCYC Youth Street Support

Canberra PCYC

The Canberra PCYC Youth Street Support Trailer helps children and adults sleeping rough in our nation’s capital. Thanks to the second year of IMB Bank Community Foundation funding, the service will expand and continue its vital support of those in need.

Community Events Trailer

Scullin Community Group 

A first of its kind, the Scullin Community Group Events Trailer is a unique new service which will provide event support materials to small community groups in and around Belconnen in the ACT.

Music for All

Marymead Child and Family Centre 

Marymead provides extensive support to children and young people living with a disability. With IMB Bank Community funding in 2020, Marymead’s outdoor spaces will be enhanced with musical resources to support self-expression and enrich communication through music.

Painting With Parkinson’s Outreach

Painting With Parkinson's

Painting with Parkinson’s is an art therapy program for people living with Parkinson's Disease, and their carers. With Foundation funding, the program will now extend the benefits of art therapy to regional centres.

Flexible Training Options for Volunteers

Coast and Country Community Services 

Volunteers are the backbone of our communities, and with IMB Bank Community Foundation support, Coast and Country Community Services will now be able to deliver easier and more convenient online training for volunteers throughout the NSW South Coast.

Veggies For All

SAGE 

Many residents of the Eurobodalla region lost their gardens in recent bushfires. This year, SAGE (Sustainable Agriculture and Gardeners Eurobodalla) will provide free vegetable beds to those affected. IMB is supporting a small but powerful step in the bushfire recovery process for these communities.

Cows Create Careers

Lions Club of Strzelecki 

Cows Create Careers connects local schools with the dairy and agricultural industry, building strong job opportunities for future generations. IMB Bank Community Foundation is proud to support Cows Create Careers in 2020, as it has for the past 13 years.

Rescue Vessel Motor Replacement

Marine Rescue NSW Jervis Bay

The thriving waterways of Jervis Bay are a popular tourist destination. Thanks to IMB Bank Community Foundation support, local Marine Rescue will now have two new outboard motors for their primary rescue vehicle to tackle all on-water emergencies.

Conjola Park Priority Project

Conjola Community Recovery Association

The recent bushfires hit Conjola hard – 89 homes destroyed, and lives lost. The Conjola Park Priority Project aims to unite and uplift the community through the regeneration of the town’s central communal area. IMB Bank Community Foundation support will contribute to this important recovery process.

Patient transport equipment

Nurses on Wheels / Clever Care NOW 

Clever Care NOW provides a unique transport service for the aged, frail and wheelchair bound, enabling them to enjoy everyday mobility, independence and community engagement. Thanks to IMB funding, the service will purchase new equipment and upgrade current facilities.

Rescue Vessel Infra-red camera

Marine Rescue NSW Middle Harbour 

For Marine Rescue Middle Harbour, the success or failure of a rescue mission can come down to one piece of equipment: the infra-red search camera. With IMB Bank Community funding, new cameras will be purchased and installed, helping save more lives on and around Sydney Harbour. 

First Aid in Schools eLearning Platform

St. John Ambulance

St. John Ambulance is synonymous with first aid care; and this year IMB Bank Community Foundation will be helping primary school children learn the St. John first aid basics through new and engaging, eLearning Platform.

Inclusive Surfing

Autism Swim 

For people living with autism, a trip to the beach to learn surfing was almost impossible. But that is now changing. The funding from the IMB Bank Community Foundation Autism Swim will roll out a new program to enable surf instructors to safely conduct surfing lessons for people with Autism.

The Mental Health Project

EducAID

2020 has been a challenging year for many, especially young people experiencing mental health issues. The EducAID program will train students and teachers in Mental Health First Aid across highly populated and culturally diverse areas of South Western Sydney.

Equipment for new shed

The Hill Top Men’s Shed 

IMB Bank Community Foundation has long been a proud supporter of Men’s Shed programs. This year, we are pleased to continue supporting the Men’s Shed in Bowral as they purchase woodwork equipment for their new shed.

Upgrading low vision assessment equipment

Vision Australia 

Vision Australia’s team on the Central Coast and in the Hunter work tirelessly to help adults and children facing vision loss. With funding from IMB, Vision Australia will now be able to upgrade old assessment tools and help those who need it most.

Inclusive Netball

Callaghan District Netball Association

The Callaghan District Netball Association provides a healthy living program for disadvantaged families, using netball as the core physical activity. Funding from the IMB Bank Community Foundation will support court maintenance and the purchase of equipment.

Sprouts OUT and ABOUT

Sprouts Shellharbour Early Learning

Interacting with children can have a remarkably positive effect on the people of every age, especially our seniors. The OUT and ABOUT program will facilitate connections between pre-schoolers from Sprouts Shellharbour and seniors at Warrigal Care, as well the wider community.

 

 

  2019 IMB Community Foundation Projects

Albion Park Youth and Community Care Inc. 

Free Before School Brekky Club

The "Before School Brekky Club" provides children and young people a free, well-balanced cooked breakfast, with the option of a packed lunch and snacks for school if required. It is hoped this will improve school attendance, classroom concentration and performance, while also providing a safe space to receive information, support and referrals.

Bowral Men's Shed 

Bowral Men's Shed Drill Press 

This grant will fund the purchase a new floor-mounted drill press and allow the Bowral Men’s Shed to more accurately and efficiently produce beautiful things for the community.

Canberra Model Railway Club Inc.

Youth Mastering Digital Technology

The building and operation of a working model railway diorama will challenge, teach and inspire teenage students in the operation and application of digital technologies. A mentoring approach builds positive relationships, enhances student self-worth, improves school attendance and fosters a stronger integration into class groups and the community.

Canberra PCYC

PCYC Street Support Trailer

The Canberra PCYC Street Support Project will see young people on the streets across the ACT region provided with a meal and welfare checks. The trailer will be set up to provide hot meals, tea and coffee, but also set up as a mobile referral service/information unit to provide young people on the streets with information on services available across the region.

CareSouth

CareSouth Health Hub

CareSouth Health Hubs provide twice-yearly dental, optical and hearing checks, as well as speech and occupational therapy assessments for the Berkeley community, making it easier for parents and carers to access a range free health checks in one location.

Crossroads Rural Fire Brigade

Firefighting Equipment

The IMBBCF grant will be used to acquire specialist equipment currently not available through RFS sources. These include a mobile generator to power equipment such as emergency lighting and provide a safer working environment for crews, and a fire hose washer which will significantly extend the working life of the Brigade’s hoses.

educAID Australia

Mental Health First Aid Course

This project aims to destigmatise the taboo nature of mental illness and increase the mental health literacy in schools and the wider community through the delivery of nationally accredited and evidence-based Mental Health First Aid training across high schools to 230 students and teachers.

Family Services Illawarra

Family Services Illawarra

One in six Australian women and one in 20 Australian men, 15 years and older, have experienced violence at the hands of a partner. Staying Home Leaving Violence provides residential security upgrades to enable women and children who are victims of domestic violence to remain in their own homes.

Farmborough Heights Rural Fire Brigade

Thermal Imaging Camera

A thermal imaging camera will enable The Farmborough Heights Rural Fire Brigade’s volunteer members to fully interpret a fire scene providing accurate situational awareness both day and night. It will also assist in search and rescue operations at any time and in any light conditions.

Giralang/Kaleen Men's Shed

First Aid officers

The Giralang/Kaleen Men's Shed offers all men access to a range of activities including a woodworking workshop, garden, physical activity such as walking, and social interaction. Members will be trained in first aid to support shed members if needed.

Girl Guides Association of NSW

High Ropes for Girl Guides

Building on a century of adventure, fun and friendship, Girl Guides empowers girls and young women to grow into confident, self-respecting, responsible community members. The project will allow Girl Guides to offer abseiling, high ropes and rock-climbing experiences in the local region providing opportunities for the girls to grow, learn and have fun in the outdoors.

Girls on Bikes

Girls on Bikes ACT

Girls on Bikes is a free learn-to-ride program that mobilises and connects migrant and refugee women in the Canberra community. Participants receive a free bike, helmet, and a place in the five-week program, which is run multiple times during the year. Many past participants transition to become volunteers and coaches.

headspace

Save a MateDual Peer mentoring Program

headspace Nowra is partnering with Red Cross to Save a Mate. Young people trained as peer educators will assist with planning and identifying opportunities for delivering Save a Mate workshops and be involved in Save a Mate workshop facilitation, to promote the health and wellbeing of young people through education, service and support on current and emerging health issues, particularly those related to alcohol and other drug use, and mental health.

Illawarra Flame Tree Project Incorporated

The Flame Tree Project  

The Flame Tree Project is an annual music and cultural program for Illawarra students, providing music education and literacy in an engaging and uplifting environment. Original compositions are developed through collaboration between students and contemporary Australian composers, with the subsequent performance reflecting the beauty of the Illawarra, its rich culture and proud history. 

Illawarra Multicultural Services Inc

IMS Swim Instructor

The IMS Sim Instructor project will support four people with refugee backgrounds through Austswim “Teacher of Swimming and water safety” to become qualified swim instructors. They will in turn conduct swim lessons for other people of refugee background within the IMS swimming program.

Kind Hearts Illawarra

Kind Hearts Illawarra Outreach

Kind Hearts Illawarra runs a community outreach programme every Thursday night in MacCabe Park, Wollongong, providing hot food and beverages, food parcels and other provisions for the homeless and those in need. 

Lions Club of Strzelecki

Cows Create Careers

Hands on learning at its best. Students learn about the dairy industry while caring for dairy calves on loan from local farmers. Cows Create Careers connects farmers and students, city and country, and provides opportunities for students to learn about opportunities within the industry.

Liverpool Women's Health Centre

Women's Clinic Upgrade

Liverpool Women’s Health Centre provides a range of medical and nursing services to assist disadvantaged women. Funds will be used to purchase more modern equipment and refurbish the women’s health clinics.

Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society Inc

Bird Banner

In 2016, the Merimbula Old School Museum started research on the history of the Gould League of Bird Lovers and the Dawson Shield, the award given to the public school which won the annual bird calling competition. This was an important feature of the educational program for local schools from 1946 to the 1960s. The collapsible banner will facilitate this outreach program and research.

Milton-Ulladulla Youth Driver Education Program

Youth Driver Education

Safe driving is an initiative attempting to reduce the road-related deaths of young people. Students from year 11 attend a three-day program where they engage with NSW Police Highway Patrol, NSW Ambulance, NSW Fire & Rescue, SES, Mechanics, Driving Instructors, and victims of road trauma. In addition, students complete practical driving components under instruction including emergency braking exercises and use of 'beer googles'.

MKUD Makedonski Biseri

Traditional Dance Uniforms

Uniforms empower the young people from Wollongong’s Macedonian community, giving them a sense of belonging to a cause larger than a dance group. The uniform arms our youth with culture, heritage and an understanding of what it is to be Macedonian.

Mt Brown Public School P & C Association

Musical Sensory Playground

This playground will provide an opportunity for children to actively play outside in a less physical way but still with other children. Widely considered an ideal choice for children on the autism spectrum or who have sensory processing disorders (SPD), this playground will promote physical, social, and cognitive development and encourage creativity in all children.

My Coaching My Future Incorporated

My Coaching My Future                

My Coaching My Future provides free coaching services for women who have left domestic/family violence and enables vulnerable women to regain confidence, make their own decisions about securing their future, including resuming or beginning studies, re-entering the workplace or finding new job opportunities.

Neighbourhood Watch Australasia Limited

Building Social Cohesion

Funding will support the production of five diagrammatic brochures in five languages targeted at culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) members of the community promoting personal, public, and property safety, and integration into the community. This is a positive step to assist with social inclusion and assimilation into Australian culture for arriving immigrants.

Older Women's Network NSW

Let's Loosen Up and Laugh

“Loosen Up and Laugh” belies the seriousness of the project that aims to present a method of helping to deal with stress, anxiety, grief and loss in a non-medicated way through meditation and mindfulness.

Our Community Place

Community Food Share

Our Community Place Inc. run a suite of programs that provide food and information to vulnerable people in our community, including the Food and Info Hub, Food Bags and our Vegetable Garden. Funding will be used to establish a weekly sit-down community dinner, where those in need can stock up on urgently needed dry goods, long-life milk and other non-perishable foods.

OzGREEN – Global Rivers Environmental Education Network (Australia) Incorporated

Youth Leading the World

Imagine thousands of young people coming together across the planet to tackle global sustainability challenges such as energy, food, climate change, biodiversity and water, and planning how they can create positive social change. YOUth LEADing The World (YLTW) is a transformative sustainability leadership program that enables young people to find their voice and become active participants in creating fairer, more sustainable futures.

Pambula Wetlands and Heritage Project

Cultural education for Panboola's volunteers

A cultural education workshop for Panboola volunteers will enhance their understanding of the landscape from an Aboriginal perspective. Knowledge gained will be used to develop interpretive signage around Pambula wetlands, sharing the knowledge with our community.

Port Kembla Youth Project Inc

PK Leap

IMB Bank Community Foundation has a long and proud history of helping surf lifesaving clubs. This year, Port Kembla SLSC will receive funding to design and create a new, improved Surf Rescue Trailer, ensuring that the resources the surf lifesaving crews need are easily on hand for any emergency. 

Rotary Club of Camden Inc

How to help a Mate!

Camden Rotary will host this event that will educate and inspire community members to tackle the challenges of Mental Health. Expert speakers provide the community with their first-hand experience in how to help your mates cope with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences.

The Rotary Club of Gerringong Sunrise

Dancing for People with Dementia

The physical activity and social interaction combined with music provides an afternoon of fun and laughter, all of which are beneficial to people who live with dementia, leading to a better quality of life as supported by research and feedback from carers.

The Rotary Club of Goulburn, Inc.

U Turn the Wheel

U Turn the Wheel is an awareness program for year 11 high school students in the Goulburn/Crookwell region. The program provides interactive sessions with health professionals, local community organisations and Emergency Services.

The Rotary Club of Kiama

Kiama High Mental Health Intervention

The Kiama High School Mental Health Intervention Project aims to equip both students and teachers at Kiama High with skills and techniques to manage their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of those around them through a series of accredited courses.

The Rotary Club of Moss Vale

U Turn the Wheel

This is a comprehensive road safety program for all year 11 students. Covering road trauma, law enforcement, road safety and choices, it is designed to encourage participants to actively engage in reducing the risks on road for the 16 – 25-year-old age group.

The Rotary Club of West Wollongong

Rotary Youth Driver Awareness Illawarra

This series of practical and powerful workshops for high school students challenge students to change the way they think about road safety and lay the foundation for safe road use throughout their lives. Trained facilitators work with students to develop and practise personalised strategies, which will help them respond positively to challenges on the road, both as drivers and highly influential passengers.

Royal Far West

Healthy Kids Bus Stop

Children living in rural and remote areas of Australia are up to five times more likely than their city counterparts to present for their first day of school with developmental health issues, negatively impacting their ability to participate and learn effectively. IMB funding will bring Royal Far West’s free developmental health screening clinic – the Healthy Kids Bus – to high-need communities in Southern NSW, providing health checks, referrals, information and supported pathways to care for developmentally vulnerable young children.

SCARF

Let's LEAD

Let’s LEAD is a program targeting refugee youth (age 17 - 30 years) in the Illawarra to support development of skills, attitudes and capacities for positive Leadership through Engagement and Appreciation of Diversity. Let’s LEAD offers opportunities for personal development, cross-cultural learning and community engagement, in an environment that values diversity and acknowledges their lived experience.

St John Ambulance Australia (ACT) Inc.

Patient Transport at Events

St John Ambulance ACT’s new sturdy wheelchairs with all-terrain tyres will enable quick and efficient transport of patients over a variety of terrain. This means someone who is injured in an inaccessible location can be quickly moved to medical aid by trained first aid volunteers whilst saving personnel time and energy in the field.

St John Ambulance Australia NSW

First Aid in Schools

First Aid in Schools teaches First Aid to the youngest members of our community – primary school students – with fun hands-on activities, giving them the confidence to help in an emergency. Age-appropriate First Aid training often means the difference between life and death.

Sustainable Agriculture and Gardeners Eurobodalla

SAGE Veggies for All 2019

SAGE Veggies for All 2019 will involve establishing a Moruya Community Garden with 22 wicking beds at the Anglicare Parish in Moruya. At least four very low-cost veggie growing workshops will be held in the Eurobodalla and 40 veggie beds fully installed in Centrelink recipients’ backyards.

Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation

Engaging Cardiac Kids Through Play

Child Life Therapists are allied health professionals who employ play intervention to support children and families coping with the stress and challenges associated with illness, injury and treatment. Funding will provide a Child Life Therapist to support cardiac paediatric patients undergoing surgery and procedures.

Teensafe

TeenSafe Safe Driver Training

Teensafe is a practical safe driver training course where young drivers get behind the wheel with professional and volunteer instructors to learn safe driving skills. Teensafe maintains a fleet of vehicles and has been operating for over 20 years in the safe environment of Moruya Surfair Speedway.

Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club Inc

Thirroul ATV Replacement

A new 'All Terrain Vehicle' is a piece of rescue equipment that will provide speed and safety to Thirroul beach, enabling quick access to all parts of the beach and efficient transport of patients and rescue equipment.

Tomerong School of Arts

Accessible Toilet

The Tomerong School of Arts is a busy community hub in the heart of the Shoalhaven region. The construction of an accessible toilet will enable everyone to attend the many events held in the Tomerong the School of Arts.

Top Blokes Foundation

Stepping Up Mentoring – Expansion

The Stepping Up Program will support up to 60 boys through an 8-week mentoring program providing access to positive role modelling and increased knowledge and skills in mental wellbeing, overcoming risk-taking and peer pressure, bullying, anger management, online behaviours, leadership and teamwork.

Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Inc.

Heart Health Check Tour

90% of Australians have at least one modifiable risk factor for heart disease. The Heart Health Check Booth provides free testing of modifiable risk factors including high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Convenient and quick tests aim to help people understand results and take steps to better heart health.

Volunteering Wingecarribee

Teeniors

The aim of this project is to enable seniors and teenagers to engage, allowing seniors to learn technology and avoid social isolation. The internet can be intimidating to many, and teenagers will introduce seniors to the virtual world as a solution to isolation from family and friends.

Wollondilly Macarthur Mountain Bike Club

Australian Botanic Garden Mountain Bike Trail

This project will restore the only authorised mountain bike trail in South-Western Sydney. This is a community restoration project coordinated by the Wollondilly Macarthur Mountain Bike Club and undertaken entirely by volunteers on behalf of all mountain bike riders and the broader community.

Wollongong West Street Centre

Solid Ground

This project will see 20 local trauma workers become skilled in the renowned Rock Water program, able to form a strong network of skilled practitioners to work with young people who are suffering the often debilitating impacts of trauma.

   

 

  2018 IMB Community Foundation Projects

Illawarra

Banana Circle at Preschool

WARILLA BAPTIST CHURCH PRESCHOOL

Bananas are a wonderful resource to help turn unwanted food scraps into usable compost. A Banana Circle in the preschool playground will help achieve the pre-school’s goal of reducing their ecological footprint. It will also provide opportunities to teach children lifelong environmental and sustainable practices as they see their food waste become compost for the pre-school garden.

Sandon Point IRB Replacement

SANDON POINT SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB INC

Sandon Point SLSC is getting a new Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB). Replacing a 14-year-old boat, the new IRB will support rapid response rescue and enable greater manoeuvrability in the water. Surf Club members will also be encouraged to race in IRB competitions in the off-season.

Community Action Team Trailer

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SHELLHARBOUR)

A Community Action Team Trailer will be used to increase education and awareness in the community, particularly in areas that present a flood risk. The trailer will be ready to deploy to specific areas-at-risk in the case of an event. The trailer will store items including traffic cones, emergency evacuation hi-vis vests, sandbags and CB radios.

 

Rescue Stretcher Wheel

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (WOLLONGONG)

Rescues in the bush or other remote locations can present difficulties in transporting patients. A light weight stretcher wheel attached to a rescue stretcher, means someone who is injured in the bush or in a remote area can be quickly moved to medical aid by volunteers.

Football Program for Refugees

FOOTBALL SOUTH COAST LTD

Football for Refugees utilises the ‘world game’ of football to encourage community engagement and provide education to refugees living in the Illawarra. Two 10-week football programs will cover football skills and will also incorporate workshops on different topics including: education opportunities, employment opportunities, beach safety and the health system in Australia.  

Kind Hearts Illawarra Outreach

KIND HEARTS ILLAWARRA

Every Thursday night, Kind Hearts Illawarra runs Outreach at McCabe Park providing meals, drinks, hygiene packs, blankets, towels and clothing to homeless people, troubled youth and others in need. Funding will provide a van to support the program’s activities.

Sharpest Tool in the Shed

MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITIES COUNCIL OF ILLAWARRA INC

The Men’s Shed in Coniston has been operating since 2006. This project includes the replacement of some worn tools and the introduction of new equipment to give Men’s Shed participants the ability to create new and exciting projects not only for themselves but also for their communities.

Road Safety Education Illawarra (RYDA)

THE ROTARY CLUB OF WEST WOLLONGONG INC

RYDA is an award-winning Road Safety Education program committed to reducing trauma on our roads by educating young people in Years 9 to 12. RYDA is evidence-based, providing practical and powerful workshops to change the way young people think about road safety. Funding will allow up to 1,600 Illawarra students to participate.

Training Room Refurbishment

SOUTH COAST RESCUE SQUAD INC

The NSW Volunteer Rescue Association is made up of specialist rescue operators working for their communities. They are primary responders for Road Crash Rescue, Marine Rescue, Vertical Rescue and just about any type of specialist rescue encountered by Emergency Service personnel. A training room with a kitchenette will provide a space the South Coast Rescue Squad and RFS can use for land search, first aid and working at heights training.

Camp Kitchen

ILLAWARRA LIGHT RAILWAY MUSEUM SOCIETY LTD

The Museum Society will use funding to replace an outdated barbecue and kitchen area. The camp kitchen is used on operating days for food sales to visitors. The museum features a number of historical steam and diesel locomotives from Australia’s Industrial Railways.

Communications Centre Upgrade

VOLUNTEER MARINE RESCUE NSW (PORT KEMBLA)

A major communications centre upgrade for the Marine Rescue NSW Port Kembla Unit will deliver better radio coverage for the boating public of the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions in waters between Sydney and Batemans Bay, including Jervis Bay, St Georges Basin and Sussex Inlet areas.

Chemo Care Kits

RAISE THE GONG INC

Chemo Care Kits provide women in the Illawarra who are undergoing chemotherapy with a kit of items specifically picked to suit women diagnosed with cancer. Kits are delivered to around 600 Illawarra women diagnosed with cancer each year.

Kitchen on Wheels

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (KIAMA)

The Kiama SES catering team prepares meals during multi-day training for volunteers across the Illawarra and South Coast, as well as providing food during sustained emergencies. The catering team currently uses a very outdated kitchen and BBQ facilities to prepare and cook food for 20-150 volunteers at a time. Kitchen on Wheels will enable the team to expand its current catering capability by 20-30 portions.

Carer Crisis Manual

MENTAL HEALTH CARERS ARAFMI ILLAWARRA INC

Carers of people with mental health issues experience high levels of stress and anxiety during a mental crisis. A manual, distributed outside of a crisis situation, can help carers feel better equipped to manage the situation. 5,000 manuals will be printed and distributed to doctors surgeries and mental health facilities.

Stepping Up - Illawarra

THE TRUSTEE FOR TOP BLOKES FOUNDATION

The Stepping Up program provides education and support for boys in Years 5 and 6 demonstrating at-risk behaviours of concern to their teachers. Over one term, our qualified youth workers challenge the boys to manage their anger, develop positive relationships and recognise negative peer pressure, whilst developing emotional resilience and improved self-worth so they are well prepared for the transition to high school. Funding will deliver the program to five Illawarra schools.

CareSouth Health Hub

CARESOUTH

CareSouth provides free access to hearing, dental and optical checks to disadvantaged children aged 2 - 17 in Berkeley and surrounding suburbs. This project will provide dental, auditory and optical checks for up to 200 children and will also educate parents, carers and young people on healthy lifestyles and the importance of seeing health professionals.

Taking Therapy into the Sunshine

WOLLONGONG WEST STREET CENTRE

Taking Therapy into the Sunshine will install a trauma informed, purpose specific, outdoor therapeutic play facility for children and young people who have experienced child sexual assault and other trauma. Evidence indicates that trauma informed play treatments have the potential to set children on a path of well-being.

IMB Roger Soden Musical Scholarship

WOLLONGONG CONSERVATORIUM OF MUSIC LTD

The Roger Soden Scholarship provides funding for a student at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.

Need a Feed

NEED A FEED AUSTRALIA INC

Need a Feed partners with several organisations to identify and connect with local families that are struggling or that are in need. Need a Feed assist with emergency relief to these families by providing one of life’s basics… food.

THE GIFT - Remembering Bob Sredersas

WOLLONGONG CITY GALLERY LTD

THE GIFT is a new immersive installation project for the Wollongong Art Gallery that celebrates Bob Sredersas, a Lithuanian emigrant who fled his country and came to Australia in 1950. Bob lived in Wollongong and worked at the Port Kembla steelworks. Over two decades, Bob collected art from some of Australia’s most significant artists, which he gifted to the city of Wollongong in 1975. THE GIFT will incorporate the 100-plus artworks from the Sredersas Collection along with some of Bob’s personal items into an immersive and atmospheric experience.

Life Education Illawarra Truck

ILLAWARRA DRUG AWARENESS GROUP LTD

Life Education delivers educational programs on-site at various primary and pre-schools throughout the Illawarra. The Life Education Truck is a mobile classroom where students learn about making the best choices for a safe and healthy life.

 

ACT and Goulburn

Swim 4 Life

ROYAL LIFE SAVING SOCIETY AUSTRALIA ACT BRANCH INC

Children who know how to swim and behave safely around water are at a reduced risk of drowning. Not all Australian children have access to the learn-to-swim programs that provide this knowledge. The Swim & Survive project delivers 10 free lessons to children who have missed a formal water safety education and teaches vital skills like floating, sculling and breath control exercises.

U Turn the Wheel

ROTARY CLUB OF GOULBURN INC

16-25 year old drivers have a crash risk 8-10 times higher than experienced drivers. In conjunction with the Road Safety Office, schools, police and emergency services, U Turn the Wheel provides free workshops for Year 11 students focusing on attitude and awareness of driver related issues like speed, fatigue, alcohol, drugs and the use of seat-belts.

Community Solar Benches

CRACE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Solar-powered benches are an innovative addition to the neighbourhood landscape and are a highly visible and fun way to demonstrate the potential of renewable energy. This project will see two solar-powered benches installed in Crace – one in a youth-targeted area and another one in areas used by families.

Arts Access Workshops

GOULBURN MULWAREE COUNCIL

The Goulburn Regional Art Gallery aims to ensure that its programs and activities are available to everyone in the local community. This project expects to deliver workshops to approximately 800 people who struggle to access any form of creative expression in their daily life. Participation in creative activities results in mental, cognitive and health benefits.

Digital Access Project

VISION AUSTRALIA LTD

This pilot project aims to provide in-home technology to 15 people over the age of 65 who are blind or have low vision. Providing an in-home ‘Personal Assistant’ to vision impaired people will help them remain connected to information and their local community. 

Mental Health Training

SOUTH CANBERRA VETERANS SHED INC

This project will deliver vital Mental Health First Aid Training to 10 people across the South Canberra Veterans Shed and other Men’s Sheds in the area. Training will be conducted by qualified instructors recommended by the Australian Men’s Shed Association.

Dungeons and Dragons

MARYMEAD CHILD & FAMILY CENTRE

The Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) program at Marymead was developed in 2017 from an expressed need for supported social group activities for young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The program runs three nights a week and assists with problem solving, social skills, team work, cooperation, emotional literacy and confidence via virtual life training.

New Club BBQ

VIKINGS JUNIOR RUGBY CLUB INC

The Tuggeranong Valley Junior Rugby Union Football Club is the largest junior rugby union club in the ACT welcoming children from 5 to 18 to play our great game. Funding will replace a worn barbecue that is used for Match Day Canteen and Tour Fundraising.

Qupcakes

QUEANBEYAN ENTERPRISE CENTRE INC

Qupcakes, operating out of Queanbeyan High School, sees a group of young people create a local enterprise, which helps build their business and employability skills as well as connecting them to the community. Participants develop a range of skills and knowledge related to running a small business including: marketing, advertising, financials, working with media, stock control, WHS and technical skills.

Coaching Support

MY COACHING MY FUTURE

My Coaching, My Future provides free coaching services for women who have left violent relationships and are ready to start planning the next steps in their lives. Coaching support assists women in taking steps to pursue study or career changes to enable them to support themselves and their family.

After School Chinese Program

FCCCI CHINESE SCHOOL

FCCCI Chinese School is looking to establish an after-school Chinese learning centre in Gungahlin. This is an expansion of an existing program that provides Chinese language and cultural education to primary school students after school hours, in local schools.

Club Trailer

CANBERRA MODEL RAILWAY CLUB

The Canberra Model Railway Club operates out of the UC Kaleen High School. The club promotes the hobby of railway modelling through participation in exhibitions and seminars related to the construction of railway models and layouts. Funding will enable the club to purchase a trailer to assist with transportation of display layouts to various venues and to double as advertising for the club and its activities. 

 

South Coast

Re-roof the Men’s Shed

TUROSS HEAD MEN’S SHED INC

The Men’s Shed plan to extend roofing of the public use area that is attached to the shed. Roofing will extend the usable area of the shed for member activities and public use.

Purchase of Equipment for Shed

ULLADULLA MEN’S SHED INC

The Milton-Ulladulla Men’s Shed are looking to introduce metalworking to their regular activities and are seeking funding to purchase a metal turning lathe. The new lathe will enable additional members to learn this new skill and will also enable the shed’s disabled members to undertake some metalworking.

Veggies for All 2018

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND GARDENING EUROBODALLA

Following the success of its pilot program in 2017, Veggies for All seeks to expand the work completed to date and provide low income households with a backyard veggie patch and low fee workshops providing education around local planting guides and how to compost.

Cows Create Careers

LIONS CLUB OF STRZELECKI INC

Hands on learning at its best. Students learn about the dairy industry while caring for dairy calves on loan from local farmers. Cows Create Careers connects farmers and students and provides opportunities for students to learn about opportunities within the industry.

Tathra Bushfire Donation

MAYORAL APPEAL FOR TATHRA

Donation to the Tathra Bushfire Mayoral Appeal to support Tathra residents in the wake of 2018’s devastating bushfire.

Solar Power for Evans Park

CLEAN ENERGY FOR ETERNITY INC

Evans Park is a popular venue with the Kalaru Community, home to sporting events and a place where people train and play. Funding will enable a new amenities block (currently under construction) to be powered by clean energy.

 

Southern Highlands

U Turn the Wheel

ROTARY CLUB OF MOSS VALE INC

U Turn the Wheel provides driver safety education to 500-600 Year 11 high school students from six High Schools across the Wingecarribee Shire. Students attend interactive sessions with police and ambulance personnel, brain injury professionals and patients and drug and alcohol awareness experts, with the aim to reduce youth involvement in road trauma.

SES Vertical Rescue Training Tower

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (WINGECARRIBEE)

A vertical rescue training tower will enable volunteers direct, intensive training in simulated rescue scenarios, increasing the team’s readiness for this specialised rescue.

Mount Druitt Children’s Healing Garden

THE TRUSTEE FOR BLACKTOWN AND MOUNT DRUITT HOSPITALS FOUNDATION TRUST

Mount Druitt Hospital has the highest volume of paediatric emergency and medicine attendances of any hospital in Western Sydney: on average 4,500 patients visit every year. The children’s healing garden aims to provide relief and distraction from the stress and emotional trauma of a hospital environment.

 

Sydney and Sydney West

Small Tools Replacement and Trailer

MEN’S SHED NARELLAN INC

Narellan Men’s Shed will purchase a box trailer and replace a variety of small hand and power tools, enabling members to learn woodworking and metalworking skills.

Prevent Alcohol & Risk Related Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y) Program

LIVERPOOL HOSPITAL

The P.A.R.T.Y program is an in-hospital education initiative to help young people recognise potential injury producing situations. Sessions demonstrate how risk-taking behaviours related to drugs, alcohol, speeding and distracted driving can result in injury.

Intensive Care Unit

CAMPBELLTOWN HOSPITAL

Patients and staff at Campbelltown Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit will benefit from the purchase of new equipment including a humidifier, respiratory humidifier and an emergency trolley and accessories.

Bereavement Support for Young Adults

NATIONAL CENTRE FOR CHILDHOOD GRIEF AUSTRALIA LTD

This project involves monthly workshops for a group of young adults who were involved with the National Centre for Childhood Grief as children, as a result of the death of one or both parents. Workshops will provide support as they navigate adulthood without the support and care of their parent/s.

ADHD - We Have the Answers

WESTMEAD MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION

When diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit, Hyperactivity Disorder), young people and their families turn to the internet for answers. This project will build a website where people can find accurate, helpful information and a professionally supported social media forum.

Holter Event Monitors

THE HEART CENTRE FOR CHILDREN

Holter monitors are a valuable and powerful tool allowing the electrical activity of a child’s heart to be recorded for a continuous 24-48 hour period, with results enabling doctors to provide appropriate treatment. The purchase of three new Holter monitors and supporting software will enable monitoring of 210 or more children each year.

RSPS’s Greenhouse Classroom

REVESBY SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL PARENTS & CITIZENS ASSOCIATION

Revesby South Public School have a fully sustainable veggie garden complete with chicken coop, worm farm and beehives. The P&C plan to build a greenhouse that will support garden activities and serve as an additional classroom.

Heart Health Check Booth

VICTOR CHANG CARDIAC RESEARCH INSTITUTE LTD

90% of Australians have at least one modifiable risk factor for heart disease. The Heart Health Check Booth provides free testing of modifiable risk factors including high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Convenient and quick tests aim to help people understand results and take steps to better heart health. 

 

  2017 IMB Community Foundation Projects
Organisation Project Name Project Description
Illawarra

PCYC Wollongong

Break Free Café Beautification

Established in 2014, the BreakFree Café provides learning and employment opportunities for disadvantaged youth, young offenders and youth at risk. The Beautification project will expand the café’s current barista and safe food training to incorporate building, construction and horticulture.

Wollongong UOW Pulse Ltd Community Volunteering Project

Connecting students with projects needing volunteers is at the heart of the Community Volunteering Project. Through this project, around 50 students from UOW provide much needed volunteer resources to up to five community projects. 

Churches of Christ Community Care Covered Work Area

The Kanahooka Men’s Shed is an active part of the local community, providing woodworking skills to projects for local schools and service clubs among others. The Men’s Shed will install a covered area to double their woodworking space and allow them to support more community projects.

Football South Coast Ltd Defibrillator Funding

Without treatment, a cardiac arrest victim’s chances of survival decrease by 10% per minute. With current response rates at 8-11 minutes, Football South Coast are aiming to have a Defibrillator at every sporting ground in the Illawarra with the purchase of 38 defibrillators and training in their use. 

Green Connect Illawarra Growing Jobs and Fair Food

In the last financial year, Green Connect employed and supported 114 refugees and young people. They grew and distributed 7,268kg of local, chemical free food and kept 1,462 tonnes of waste out of landfill. Green connect now plans to extend their Urban Farm by another 4,000 square metres with the aim to increase food production, employment opportunities and their connection with the community.

The Shepherd Centre Halfway Hear

Children with partial hearing loss can be ineligible for government support. The Shepherd Centre aims to bridge this gap by providing early intervention support programs to partially deaf children and their families. The program provides education, assessments, therapy and support across online and face-to-face sessions.

Rotary Club of Kiama High School Mental Health Intervention

Kiama Rotary have more than 10 years’ experience providing Mental Health First Aid courses to the community. This project extends the program to students of Kiama High School and aims to give both teachers and students additional tools to support ongoing efforts for student wellbeing and welfare.

Illawarra Drug Awareness Group Ltd Life Education Illawarra Truck

Life Education’s delivers educational programs on site at various primary and pre-schools throughout the Illawarra. The Life Education Truck is a mobile classroom where students learn about making the best choices for a safe and healthy life. 

Jamberoo Public School P&C Association Music Education through African Drumming How do you manage a school band when you have a small school? Take up African drumming! Jamberoo Public School’s innovative approach to the school band delivers in-school drumming lessons to all students. Extra Djembe drums will provide all students the opportunity to be involved. 
NZ House NSW  Need a Feed Need a Feed partners with several organisations to identify and connect with local families who are struggling or who are in need. Need a Feed assist with emergency relief to these families by providing one of life’s basics… food.
Wollongong Conservatorium of Music  Roger Soden Scholarship Year 5 The Roger Soden Scholarship provides funding for a student at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.
Fairy Meadow Demonstration School  Sensory Garden Imagine a special place where your sense can come alive. Welcome to the Fairy Meadow Demonstration School Sensory Garden. Aromatic plants and flowers as well as playground equipment including a special swing, trampolines, and a slippery dip and tunnel, will make this garden a great teaching and learning space for children at FMDS.
Illawarra Sports Stadium Soft Play Equipment The Illawarra Sports Stadium is providing a new venue for Mums and their pre-schoolers. Soft play equipment provides a safe, fun place for pre-schoolers to enhance their gross and fine motor skills; while giving mums a chance to establish social and support networks by connecting with each other.
Family Services Illawarra Staying Home Leaving Violence One in six Australian women and one in twenty Australian men, 15 years and older, have experienced violence at the hands of a partner. Staying Home Leaving Violence provides residential security upgrades to enable women and children who are victims of domestic violence to remain in their own homes.
Illawarra Sports High School Students and Seniors Get Appy Students and seniors get together for this great program aimed at teaching seniors how to use iPads. Seniors learn how to face-time, use apps and to engage using social media. Student Tech Leaders are paired with a Tech Senior for fortnightly lessons. Funding will enable purchase of new equipment to support the program.
Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra Inc. U&Me Online Documentary Series Taking steps to reduce racism and to increase positive intercultural interaction between members of the Wollongong Community, U&Me is the celebration of stories about friendships between people from diverse cultural backgrounds. U&Me plan to tell four new stories over four new documentaries. 
South Coast
Friends of Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens Accessible Barbecue Pavilion An increasing number of people are visiting the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens, with more than 65,000 visitors expected this year. Current access is difficult for visitors with limited mobility. The Accessible Barbecue Pavilion will provide undercover seating for 40-50 people and access to two free electric barbecues. 
Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society Birdcall Newsreel DVD In the 1953 to 1962, a team of bird callers from bush schools in the Far South Coast of NSW, won the State Birdcall Championships 6 times. The Merimbula–Imlay Historical Society wants to recreate some of that magic with a DVD showcasing newsreel footage from the original competitions.  
Dalmeny Rural Fire Brigade Fire Appliance Upgrade There is no question that firefighting is labour intensive. The Dalmeny Rural Fire Brigade plans to combat operational fatigue and improve efficiencies with the installation of electric hose reels. Firefighters can deploy a 60m long live reel in 8-10 minutes using electric hose reels.
Wolumla Rural Fire Brigade Fire Ground Radios In a fire event, clear communication between firefighting crews is essential. New VHF Fire Ground Radios provide designated frequencies for firefighters to use, allowing better and more efficient communication that is free of interference.
SAGE Fresh Veggies for Everyone Everyone can benefit from a backyard veggie garden, but not everyone has the means or the expertise. This project aims to tackle that issue with low cost workshops and free installation of ready to go backyard veggie gardens for low-income earners. SAGE also provide ongoing support in management of veggie gardens.
Narooma Men’s Shed Metal Workshop Sand Blaster Purchase Using existing skills and developing new ones is a big part of the Narooma Men’s Shed. With a 300% increase in requests for metalwork from various local groups, the Men’s Shed plans to install a sand blaster cabinet to enable a safe, efficient environment to broaden their metalwork area capabilities.
Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW Rescue Wharf Repair The boating community across the state rely on the efforts of the Marine Rescue NSW volunteers. The Tuross Marine Rescue unit will upgrade their 30 year old decking to allow Marine Rescue Vessels to be ready for quick response to anyone in need.
Rotary Club of Bega Rotary Youth Driver Awareness Targeting young people about to apply for their drivers licence, the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness program aims to increase young driver awareness about their safety on the road. Over six modules, year 11 students learn about hazard perception, vehicle braking & design and the impact of their choices.
Friends of the Curtis Park Arboretum Inc. Signage for Plants of WA Curtis Park Arboretum displays an increasing range of Australian native plants, providing an inspiring and educational space for people to see and learn about our natural fauna. The Arboretum recently introduced West Australian plants. Signage of these plants will provide botanical and general information about these plants that are rarely seen this side of the Nullarbor Plain. 
Bega Valley Meals on Wheels The Big Freezer Every year more than 200 volunteers from Bega Valley Meals on Wheels provide over 24,000 nutritious meals to people unable to leave their houses. The purchase of new freestanding upright freezers and upgrades to electrical work (including installation of an emergency generator) will allow for increased food safety and distribution. 
Noah’s Ark Centre of Shoalhaven Inc. Fun and Fresh Fun and Fresh addresses many needs for the 800 children and young people supported by Noah’s Inclusion Services. An educational chicken and vegetable area aims to improve children’s health, wellbeing and skill development through experience, therapy and education.
Southern Highlands
Bowral Men’s Shed Bandsaw Replacement Comprising 70 members, the Bowral Men’s Shed provides companionship, support, education and assistance for its members. It also supports individuals and groups in the local community. The purchase of a new Bandsaw will increase woodworking capability, safety and efficiency, and enable more members to learn a new skillset.
Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens Ltd Gateway to the Garden It is well documented that gardening is therapeutic with mental, physical and social health benefits; and the Southern Highlands Botanic Garden is designed to cater for all members of the community. The Gateway to the Garden will be built from locally sourced Basalt and will provide a clear and welcoming entrance to the Gardens.
Rotary Club of Moss Vale U Turn the Wheel 16-25 year old drivers have a crash risk 8 – 10 times higher than experienced drivers. In conjunction with the Road Safety Office, schools, police and emergency services, U Turn the Wheel provides free workshops for year 11 students regarding Attitude and Awareness of driver related issues like speed, fatigue, alcohol, drugs and the use of seat belts.  
Sydney
Buxton Community Association Buxton Hall Kitchen Refurbishment Built in 1947, the Buxton Community Hall provides a space for various community groups in Buxton and Picton. This kitchen refurbishment will replace the original kitchen with a modern, safe and functional kitchen that is able to support more community activities.
Macarthur Sunrise Rotary Club Inc. Dolly Parton Imagination Library Directed to low socio-economic and disadvantaged communities, The Imagination Library addresses and nurtures early childhood literacy. Every month, registered children up to 5 years old, receive a specially chosen book, giving literacy support to children who may not have the opportunity to access it. 
St John’s Ambulance NSW First Aid Trailer St John’s will purchase a CUB Kakadu off road camper trailer to provide first aid treatment in a wide variety of situations. The camper trailer, which will replace an older model, will provide vital emergency equipment including Oxygen, Defibrillators, Analgesics and hot water and cooling facilities for treatment of patients.
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Heart Health Check Booth 90% of Australians have a least one modifiable risk factor for heart disease. The Heart Health Check Booth provides free testing of modifiable risk factors including high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Convenient and quick tests aim to help people understand results and take steps to better heart health.
Lynwood Park Rural Fire Brigade Hydrating Firefighters Bravo 1, housed at Lynwood Park RFS Brigade Station, is Macarthur Zone’s spare fire truck. Bravo 1 replaces firetrucks undergoing maintenance or deployed elsewhere right across the zone. Bravo 1 is set to get a fridge to enable firefighting crews and the general community access to essential cold water in extreme conditions. 
Teddy Bear Cottage Kinder Care Kinder M8 software allows teachers to keep parents in touch with their pre-schooler’s day. Teddy Bear Cottage will install this software enabling faster, more efficient communication with parents, leaving staff more time to provide quality care. 
PCYC Liverpool  Lyrics of Liverpool Lyrics of Liverpool is a 10 week program that blends life-skill workshops on topics including bullying, self-esteem and anger management with creative expression, song writing and musical skills development. The program aims to reach at least 60 young children in Liverpool.
Mark Grundy Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Group Inc. Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Project Oesophageal cancer is a lesser-known cancer, but has experienced rapid growth in prevalence and diagnosis in recent years. This project aims to increase awareness in the GP and general community, enabling people to identify early symptoms and warning signs.
Disabled Surfing Association Safety and Exposure Over 24 years the South Coast Disabled Surfers Association has engaged 3,700 disabled participants and 14,600 volunteers. Over three ‘Hands-On Days’ across the Illawarra and South Coast each summer, participants get a real surf experience catching waves on a soft surfboard. DSA uses colour-coded rash vests to ensure high safety standards at each event. Funding will allow for the replacement of rash vests and the purchase of two large tents.
ACT & Goulburn
Royal Life Savings Society Belconnen Swim & Survive Children who know how to swim and behave safely around water are at a reduced risk of drowning. Not all Australian children have access to the learn-to-swim programs that provide this knowledge. The Swim & Survive project delivers 10 free lessons to children who have missed a formal water safety education, and teaches vital skills like floating, sculling and breath control exercises.   
Lions Club of Strzelecki Cows Create Careers Hand on learning at its best. Students learn about the dairy industry while caring for dairy calves on loan from local farmers. Cows Create Careers connects farmers and students and provides opportunities for students to learn about opportunities within the industry.
Goulburn Regional Art Gallery Disability Outreach Workshops The Goulburn Regional Art Gallery aims to ensure that its programs and activities are available to everyone in the local community. Disability Outreach Workshops provide up to 72 art workshops at three facilities across Goulburn, allowing those with a disability or mobility restraints important access to creative activities.
Belconnen Baptist Church Inc. Improving Men’s Mental Health Mental Health is an issue affecting many Australians. The Belconnen Community Men’s Shed aims to improve the mental health of its members and the wider community by providing training in how to recognise and treat mental illness.
Rotary Club of Goulburn Inc. U Turn the Wheel L and P plate drivers have access, through their local school, to interactive sessions with police and ambulance personnel, brain injury professionals and patients, and drug and alcohol awareness experts with the aim to reduce youth involvement in road trauma.
Australian National Botanic Gardens Who Did That Trail Extension The Australian National Botanic Gardens ‘Who Did That Trail’ is getting an extension. Work is currently underway on a Treehouse Gazebo at the gardens, this project will extend an existing children’s trail to encompass the new addition. The trail will feature hands-on activities and model animals encouraging learning through play in the great outdoors.
  2016 IMB Community Foundation Projects
Organisation Project Name Project Description
Illawarra

CareSouth

Homework Hub The CareSouth Homework Hub provides a safe, calm learning environment for students in CareSouth’s Foster Care and Brighter Futures programs. Homework Hub relies on volunteers to help students with their work. Volunteers also mentor the students and provide positive role modelling. The Homework Hub also fosters and encourages further education and career planning. This will allow students in care to break the cycle of disadvantagement and to give back to their community. The Homework Hub also gives volunteers, many of whom are University and TAFE students, an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields.

CareWays Community Inc.

Illawarra Community Sensory Room The funding will assist with the development of a community-based, multi-sensory room (MSR) for children and adults living with disabilities or mental health issues in the Illawarra/Shoalhaven. An unused office at Horsley Community Centre will be refurbished to provide controlled sensory experiences to stimulate primary senses, encouraging relaxation which has been shown to positively impact upon behaviours.

Disabled Surfers Association of Australia

Maintaining Safety for Disabled Surfing The Disabled Surfing Association has been running on the South Coast for 23 years with a perfect safety record. The project will sustain this track record by providing equipment and training enabling disabled participants to enjoy a safe surfing experience. Without this volunteer service, disabled people would be disadvantaged and unable to enjoy the surf, especially a wave-riding experience that many abled people take for granted.

Football South Coast Limited

FSC Knights The FSC Knights is an initiative facilitated by Football South Coast with the assistance of The Disability Trust. The program allows participants with special needs to train and play soccer on a weekly basis as part of the mainstream football competition.

Foxground Rural Fire Service

Foxground Community Communications The IMB Bank Community Foundation grant will provide better training facilities for the Brigade members and other visiting RFS brigades, and improved communication through education in the community.

Illawarra Drug Awareness Group Ltd

Life Education Illawarra Truck The program is delivered on-site at various primary schools and pre-schools throughout the Illawarra, through the utilisation of Mobile Learning Centres. These mobile classrooms are built like theatres, which enable programs to be delivered in a creative, interesting and entertaining way at schools.

IMB Financial Literacy

IMB Financial Literacy Program Funds invested in the development of an IMB Bank financial literacy program.

NZ House NSW

Need a Feed Need a Feed partners with several organisations to provide emergency food relief to locals in need. They also collect food that would otherwise have gone to landfill and redistribute to local community organisations.

Our Community Project Incorporated

Growing food, jobs and community This project will develop 4,000 square metres of a urban farm (a 3.2 hectares site at Warrawong High School) as a new area for food growing. It will create jobs and support for resettled refugees and young people, provide more local food production and be a demonstration site for urban food growing. Community connection development will be a collaboration between young people and former refugees employed to work on the project and volunteers from the community. It will set up a site for food production, employment, long-term community connection and capacity building.

Raise The Gong Inc.

Chemo Care Kits The Chemo Care Kit program was launched in December 2012 and, since that time, Raise The Gong has distributed more than 1000 kits to local women commencing chemotherapy for the first time at Wollongong Hospital. The kits have grown over time and now contain around $200 worth of items, samples and vouchers. Each inclusion in the kit is carefully selected to ensure it is a product or service that will benefit the women receiving the kit.

Rotary Club of Kiama

Mental Health First Aid Courses Funding will be used to contribute to the running of two free, mental health first aid courses for the Kiama Community in early 2017. The courses are delivered via a public forum and are conducted by a well-known educator in mental health. The courses provide an opportunity to those who are not in a position to pay for education in mental health to learn more about the issue.

SCARF Incorporated

SCARF Vibrant Volunteers Program This project seeks to strengthen SCARF’s support to its valuable volunteer network and to enhance the service-provision to refugee families. It involves the development of responsive and engaging volunteer coordination and supports processes to improve SCARF’s capacity to respond to the critical and evolving needs of refugee children, youth, adults and older people from Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

The Scout Association of Australia

Scouts and mental health first aid Scout leaders in Wollongong will be trained through a program to better manage mental health issues that may arise from time to time with young people. The outcomes of the project will help minimise the stigma associated with mental health and become part of a program provided to all scouts for general and improved awareness for all.

Thirroul Men’s Shed Inc.

Establishment and fit out of new premises The Thirroul Men’s Shed will refurbish an existing railway shed to provide new premises for workshop activities, training and welfare for men from the community to actively contribute to personal and community projects/activities.

Wollongong Conservatorium of Music Ltd

Roger Soden Scholarship Year 4 The Roger Soden scholarship provides funding for a student at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.

Wollongong UniCentre Ltd

Community Volunteering Project The project aims to connect students with already-established programs and projects run by charity and not-for-profit organisations in the Wollongong community. It addresses various community needs through providing skilled and motivated volunteers to assist organisations in achieving their objectives in a variety of ways.
VIC, ACT; Goulburn    

Attitude Books Foundation Inc.

Attitude Books Project The funding will support a program, “A for Attitude”, which is provided to Grade 3 students. Each student will be given their own personal copy of “A for Attitude”, a life-skills resource that tackles the issue of anxiety and depression in young children. The project has been extremely successful in building self-esteem, lowering anxiety in children and offering families the opportunity to connect at a deeper level than ever before.

Canberra City Care

 

Harvest Garden to Table Canberra City Care provides a range of low-cost services to those in the community
experiencing financial hardship, including assistance with food, clothing, computers and debt management. With the help of IMB, Canberra City Care will expand its services to create the Harvest Garden and Kitchen to grow fresh produce, provide hospitality training and create healthy affordable meals for those on a low income.
 

Rotary Club of Goulburn Inc.

U Turn the Wheel Students are transported to and from the Goulburn TAFE campus to participate in a day-long program consisting of 6 x 35-minute interactive role play sessions with police and ambulance, brain injury specialists and patients and drug and alcohol personnel. Other topics covered include first motor vehicle purchase and large vehicle awareness. The program is followed by three ‘Log Book Runs’ through the year where participants are put through a rally-style drive incorporating various traffic controls and driver challenges. This terminates at the NSW Police Driver Training School where demonstrations on defensive driving, skid control and breaking techniques are conducted.

Shakti Migrant and Refugee Women’s Support Group Melbourne Inc.

Multilingual Domestic Violence Crisis Line

The Scoresby-based, culturally-specialist multilingual crisis-line is manned by local volunteers that speak at least two different languages. The team is trained extensively in cultural analysis within the domestic violence framework. The funding for this project will enable vulnerable women and girls of Asian, African and Middle Eastern cultural backgrounds at risk of culturally-sanctioned oppressive practices such as child forced marriage, honour-based violence, dowry violence and female genital mutilation to access culturally-specialist domestic violence crisis services in their mother-tongue.

St John Ambulance Australia (ACT) Inc.

 

Bicycle Emergency Response Team (BERT) St John’s Ambulance BERT First Responder teams are trained volunteers who use bicycles to quickly go through crowds at major events to attend emergency situations. The project greatly enhances the St John ACT clinical response times and capacity, directly addressing the community need. The funding will provide new bikes for St John Ambulance.

State Emergency Service NSW

Work Bench Lighting The SES and RFS volunteers share the Bungendore emergency services building. Both organisations maintain and repair equipment vital to their community roles. Currently, the shared work bench has no direct lighting and, as most equipment maintenance is done in the evening, this has meant these activities are difficult. The funding will provide new lighting over the work benches.

Sutton Rural Fire Brigade 

Community Engagement Trailer

Funding will be used to provide a suitable trailer to store and contain documentation, teaching aids, education material and examples of fire fighting equipment to educate primary school children and local residents concerning all aspects of bush fire prevention, response and safety.

Upside Events Inc.

 

Music with an Upside Upside Events has been established to raise funds for mental health charities by hosting ticketed live music events, with proceeds donated to a range of mental health charities in the ACT. The project will start small with a few music events in 2016, with the intention to build this over time. This will offer a great enduring opportunity to the Canberra community, not only through the fundraising efforts, but a commitment to raising awareness of the issues facing people with a mental illness.
Sydney    

1st Appin Scout Group

Outdoor Cob Shelter and Cooking Oven The 1st Appin Scout Group provides community outreach activities for the local communities at Appin, Wilton, Douglas Park and Macarthur. IMB Bank has funded an outdoor cob shelter and cooking oven that will be created from mud bricks made by the Scouts, then installed and used by the Scouts, and other community groups, to produce food using the age-old process of outdoor cob cooking.

Camden Literacy Gardens

 

Camden Literacy Gardens Five literacy gardens will be developed on the Camden Town Farm site, each reflecting a children’s book. In the first garden - The Three Little Pigs - three little houses will be constructed so parents and children can read the book and talk about its contents. The project addresses the needs of all young children to be assisted by parents and siblings in acquiring adequate literacy skills.

Cancer Patients Foundation Limited

Look Good Feel Better Workshops Look Good Feel Better workshops help cancer patients build the confidence they need to not withdraw from their life. Trained volunteers teach participants how to manage skin redness and dryness, how to draw on eyebrows and also how to give the illusions of eye lashes if they have lost them. Men learn grooming techniques and how to look after their skin as well as options like tinted moisturisers to help with colour correction. A local wig provider also attends to showcase the many different head-wear options like wigs, scarves and hats.

CareFlight Limited

MediSim Trauma Care Workshops CareFlight’s MediSim program provides paramedical training to emergency services volunteers who may be the first to reach incident scenes and treat critically injured people in regional areas. The skills, knowledge and confidence required to deal confidently and capably with critical patient situations until medical professionals arrive are vital to these volunteers being able to change or save a life.  

Dandelion Support Network Inc.

Safe Education Program The Dandelion Support Network provides pre-loved and new car restraints to families in need, free of charge, via their social workers. This pilot project is designed to educate social workers on car restraints and their correct installation via a series of seminars, designed by car restraint experts from Hire For Baby. The project also looks to provide financial assistance so disadvantaged families can have the car restraints correctly fitted by an installation professional from Hire For Baby.

Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living Limited

Learning for Life The project entails building a sustainable area for creativity and learning for life at MCSL. The centre has put several areas aside to develop a wet/dirt kitchen with a shade shelter for children 0-5 years and a large shelter to conduct open air educational workshops to reinforce sustainable lifestyle choices for the community. This project will address the needs of 0-80 years olds in a fun, sustainable learning environment in the Macarthur Region.

Mark Grundy Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Group Incorporated

 

Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Project The project’s main goal is to increase awareness of oesophageal cancer in the greater NSW community. The fastest growing cancer in terms of prevalence and diagnosis in Australia, education is key to ensure the community is able to identify symptoms and warning signs and work with their doctor to maintain the best possible health.

Port Hacking Potters Group

49th Port Hacking Pottery Competition The funding will be used to stage exhibitions so the community can see the work of artists of various levels. It is hoped to provide experiences for the community to participate in actual sculptural building of forms using clay. The project will also allow volunteers to learn about marketing, advertising, technology, sponsorship and the implementation of an exhibition.

St George Men’s Shed Incorporated

Carss Park Fit Out In 2015, Kogarah City Council offered to provide the St George Men’s Shed new premises at Carss Park. The funding will be used for the renovation of the shed with work to be completed in 2016

Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Limited

Heart Health Check Booth The Heart Health Check Booth is a fully mobile and portable service that can be set up in any convenient location to bring heart health testing to the community. The testing is provided free to the individual and measures blood pressure, total cholesterol and blood sugar levels, providing information on modifiable risk factors and healthy heart habits.
South Coast    

Friends of Milton Library Inc.

Milton Library The project aims to increase the use of the library by the community, allowing the space to be used by groups who have no facilities or limited funds to rent facilities. The funding will be used to purchase new moveable shelving, creating more space in Milton Library so literary programs such as book clubs, story time, creative and poetry writing classes, book week activities, literacy programs, author talks and homework assistance can be delivered to the community. The Library will also be able to accommodate community events such as Artfest.

Moruya Jazz Festival Incorporated

Riverlights The Riverlights project takes place over six months and encompasses a series of twice-weekly, artist-led, open community workshops to build giant, illuminated floating lanterns, culminating in an exhibition of the floating art works, towed by paddlers and moored on the Moruya Riverside Park. Engaging up to 30 community, interest, art, school and family groups, Riverlights brings together socially, culturally and economically diverse individuals from all walks of life, in the planning, developing and undertaking of the workshops and also brings together many thousands of members of the local and wider community.

Shoalhaven Heads Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

Fire Truck Power Inverters The brigade has two fire trucks and the funding will facilitate the purchase of 12VDC-240VAC Power Inverters to be installed on each truck. This will allow crews to use common electrical tools and to recharge batteries for hand-held radios if in the field for long periods.
Eden Community Radio Inc. 2SEA Eden studio equipment With the wind-back of local ABC radio content, the role of community radio
is becoming more important. The expansion of digital technology means it is imperative equipment is up-to-date and suitable for the task at hand. The desk in the studio operates 24 hours
a day, seven days a week and will be updated. The current equipment will then be available for outdoor broadcasts.
 

Lions Club of Strzelecki Inc.

Cows Create Careers The Cows Create Careers project introduces students to various careers in the dairy industry with an academic and hands-on training module; farmers “loan” calves to schools for educational purposes and to highlight career opportunities. It is well supported by farmers, schools and parents. The project is constantly upgraded to introduce
the students to modern techniques.
 

Wolumla Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

 

Electricity Generator The funding will be used to provide emergency lighting at motor vehicle accident sites or fighting fires in remote areas when emergency communications are necessary.

Bega Birth to Kindergarten

Bega Birth to Kindergarten The funding will assist the Early Childhood Nurses from Bega Community Health to provide books to new mothers at their six-weekly visit after the birth of their child. The objective is to encourage reading in children from birth onward, stimulating optimal patterns of brain development and strengthening parent-child relationships.

Tuross Community Garden Inc.

‘Roof on the ground’ water system A free workshop will be held to educate the community about the design of a new roof-on-the-ground water system and it will then be installed as a permanent system at the Tuross Community Garden. This will be followed by another free workshop to decorate the new system with mosaics.

Anglican Church Bodalla Parish

Narooma Toy Library Outdoor Playground The Narooma Toy Library and Play Cafe is a recent, unique initiative that has been operating in the Anglican Church Hall for 12 months. It has been well received by families with young children from 0-5 years. The children enjoy the opportunity to play with new toys and the families welcome the fact that there is a minimal borrowing cost which relieves the financial burden of buying toys. The project funding will allow further facilities to be built outdoors with a new play area housing various pieces of equipment and incorporating tables and seating for parents and carers.
  2015 IMB Community Foundation Projects
Organisation Project Name Project Description  
ACT
Australian Chinese Culture Exchange and Promotion Association Dancing for Health and Fun This project will run regular Chinese folk dance sessions for children and adults and create a number of dance performances to enhance culture diversity for various community festivals. The project aims to improve the fitness and happiness of local community members, and to foster artistic creativity and social interaction through group dance activities.

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Belconnen Baptist Church Inc. Opshop Refurbishment and OH&S Improvements Another Chance Op Shop commenced over twenty years ago in response to the need of low income families in the Belconnen area for clean second hand clothes and other small household items at greatly reduced prices and to provide a friendly place for a chat and a helping hand. To maintain this program for the benefit of the ACT community, the refurbishment will update the shop, making it a neater, tidier and a safer working environment.

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Belconnen Baptist Church Inc. Men's Shed Program Extention Project This project will extend the range of programs offered by the Belconnen Community Men’s Shed by enabling a range of metalworking programs to be introduced. The grant funding will facilitate the purchase of sheet metal working and welding equipment and the necessary training for safe operation.

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Community Programs Association Inc. Recyclery Recyclery employs people with a disability (targeting people who have never worked before) to fix old bikes for re-sale. This project will provide training opportunities to increase the skills of the work force to increase productivity in the workshop, consolidate our current sales strategy and work with our point of sale community partners to increase sales. The project will also research, explore and develop new opportunities for the Recyclery to expand it’s income streams.

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Tuggeranong Uniting Church Erindale Neighbourhood Garden The Erindale Neighbourhood Garden is an innovative new non-profit garden in the heart of a community-zoned precinct in Canberra, built by community organisations and local residents, driven by an inclusive ethos, and managed by Tuggeranong Uniting Church. Through gardening activities, its purpose is to tackle at a local level a range of well-documented social and health issues, including childhood obesity and unhealthy eating choices; disconnected and under-skilled youth; marginalised disabled; and isolated and lonely elderly.

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Goulburn Loco Roundhouse Preservation Society Inc. Goulburn Railway Heritage Oral History Recording the oral history of current and retired railwaymen electronically and in print for the education of future generations. Also to provide a resource for historians writing the history of railways and railwaymen, particularly those associated with Goulburn.

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Rotary Club of Goulburn

U Turn the Wheel The U-Turn the Wheel program is designed to specifically address the attitudes and awareness of driver related issues such as speed, fatigue, alcohol, drugs and the wearing of seat belts, all of which have been identified as major contributors to road casualties among our young drivers. The program is offered to all year 11 student throughout the Goulburn and Upper Lachlan district and is run over a 2 day period.  
Capital Country Industry Education Partnership Inc. Qupcakes Qupcakes is a local Queanbeyan initiative in which young people will create and manage their own business, and through this develop practical, business and employability skills and build stronger connections with their local community. Qupcakes participants will work as a team to develop this business model, and design, prepare and sell their cupcakes at a variety of community events.

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Queanbeyan Children's Special Needs Group Inc.  Treehouse Kids Sensory Gym The IMB Treehouse Kids Sensory Gym is a specialist developmental education and therapy facility that supports children with disabilities to improve their sensory processing and integration skills. Children and families are going to love coming to play in this coordinated environment designed to build each child’s capacity to enjoy full inclusion in community life.

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Illawarra      
Dapto Rural Fire Brigade Kitchen Upgrade The funding will help upgrade kitchen facilities by providing a mobile serving/work bench with storage underneath and two new refrigerators for the kitchen in the Fire Station.

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Illawarra Drug Awareness Group Ltd Life Education Illawarra Truck The program is delivered on-site at various primary schools and pre-schools throughout the Illawarra, through the utilisation of Mobile Learning Centres. These mobile classrooms are built like theatres, which enable programs to be delivered in a creative, interesting and entertaining way at schools.    
Illawarra Robotics Team Inc. The League of R.O. Gentlemen The project involves designing and building a robot, developing community interest in robotics and introducing young people to robotics, maths, science and engineering through workshops at schools and other community facilities. 

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Illawarra Sports High School Tech Savvy Students and Seniors Illawarra Sports High School students will visit local nursing homes weekly and teach local senior citizens how to effectively use iPads.

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Lawrence Hargrave Centre Celebrating Centenary of Lawrence Hargrave Lawrence Hargrave Centre has 22 events planned for the Centenary Year celebrating the achievements of Lawrence Hargrave and the ICF Funding will assist in providing these events to the community. 

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Lions Club of Strzelecki Inc.  Cows Create Careers Cows Create Careers is a Strzelecki Lions Club project which was established in 2004 to promote the career and education opportunities for students (Years 7-11) in the dairy industry. These students learn about the dairy industry while caring for dairy calves on loan from local farmers.

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NZ House NSW - Need a Feed Need a Feed Need a Feed partners with several organisations to provide emergency food relief to locals in need. They also collect food that would otherwise have gone to landfill and redistribute to local community organisations.

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Raise The Gong Inc.  BRCA Genetic Support Group Raise The Gong, in conjunction with Dr Sian Greening, Genetic Counsellor at Illawarra Health, will be providing a support group to local women who have been diagnosed with the BRCA gene, which is linked to cancers such as breast and ovarian.

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Rotary Club of Kiama Inc. Mental Health First Aid Courses Funding will contribute to the running of two free mental health first aid courses for the Kiama Community.

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Rotary Club of Wollongong Rotary BBQ Trailer Funding will facilitate construction of a community BBQ trailer which can be used at various community events, activities and functions.

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Shellharbour City U3A Inc. Learning for Pleasure The Learning for Pleasure program involves holding courses that stimulate physically & mentally, social outings & informative talks on subjects pertinent to senior residents. All activities aim to reduce social isolation & loneliness.

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Southern Youth and Family Services Association Inc Youth Training Cafe SYFS has recently built a Youth and Family Services Hub in Warilla. The Youth Training Cafe project will equip the large kitchen for hospitality, cooking and barrister training and provide opportunities for young people to train and practice hospitality skills.  
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Stepping Out The IMB Community Foundation Grant will assist the St Vincent de Paul Social Recreation Group’s “Stepping Out” project to support 34 Illawarra community members with a mental illness to improve their health and wellbeing, through developing an ongoing exercise program and purchase of new sporting equipment.

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Strategic Community Assistance to Refugee Families SCARF Inc Young Refugees Project The project will develop and deliver activities to support and strengthen young people who have settled in the Illawarra as humanitarian entrant refugees and promote community harmony.   

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University of Wollongong - IMB Ltd Partnership Early Start Discovery Space  Funding has been provided to support the Early Start Discovery Space, a hands-on creative venue for children from birth to 12 years of age. The Discovery Space is Australia’s only dedicated children’s museum. 

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Wollongong Conservatorium of Music Roger Soden Scholarship Yr 3 The Roger Soden scholarship provides funding for a student at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.

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Wollongong West St Centre Beyond the Limits
The project includes the development and promotion of specialised and accessible resources for adults, young people and children who are survivors of child sexual assault and support for the wider community.  

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Woonona High School Woonona High School Dance Studio An under-used classroom space will be converted into a dance studio, in order to benefit Woonona High School students and members of the local community.   
South Coast      
1st St Geoges Basin Scout Group  Canoeing program Funding will assist purchasing two canoes for Cubs, Scouts and Venturers. Participants will learn skills in water safety, canoeing skills and improve physical fitness. 

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Bega Mens Shed Inc. Make our new shed safe The newly opened Bega Mens Shed will install safety equipment, fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and signage, so members can start to use the array of donated machinery to make items for community groups.

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Eden Foreshores Landcare Group Inc. Lake Curalo Walk and Foreshore This project will assist Eden Foreshores Landcare Group Inc. in initial and ongoing running costs in the development of the soon to be constructed Lake Curalo Walk, and Foreshore maintenance.  
Lady Denman Heritage Complex Huskisson Inc. Completing Restoration of the 'Crest' Based at Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, Huskisson, this project is to complete the full restoration of the historic fishing boat ‘Crest’ to a seaworthy condition. ‘Crest’ was built in 1911, the same year as the Lady Denman ferry; both were built in Huskisson by the Dent family.

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The Legacy Club of Queaneyan Eden Monaro Inc. Far South Coast Group  Workhorse colour printer  Purchase industrial grade laser printer to assist with the production of regular newsletters and promotional material for the War Widows community. 

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Merimbula Public school Parents & Citizens association IMB Cyber Safety seminars Workshops will provide parents, caregivers,primary school children and community members with awareness on cyber bullying, safe and unsafe apps, setting up filters, age limits on social media apps and taking responsibility for families safety online.  
Moruya Surf Life Saving Club Inc Moruya SLSC Special Nippers The program aims to provide a beach experience for children and adolescents with physical and intellectual disabilities. Some Special Nippers are restricted to wheelchairs while others are vision impaired. Being able to get on a surfboard and ride a broken wave into the beach is an experience that would not be possible without this program where members of the community join the club to help deliver these experiences.

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Nowra East Public School Parents & Citizens Association Inc.  Community Grden Learning/Seatin Circle Development of a permanent Learning Seating Circle that will enable students and community members to sit comfortably within the community garden for various learning and community activities. The Learning Seating Circle will be a focal point for learning activities and community activities as well as a place from which the garden can be viewed and accessed.

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Shoalhaven Libraries Building Brighter Babies Shoalhaven libraries is proud to be delivering it’s exciting project titled Building Brighter Babies. The project will provide new born babies at Shoalhaven hospital (over a twelve month period) with a quality children’s picture book. The objective is to encourage reading in children from birth onward, and instil an appreciation of reading that will continue into the future.

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SouthernCare Incorporated Pantry Club Expansion Project This program will expand capacity to deliver the Pantry Club program and improve overall service delivery to vulnerable & disadvantaged people & families.  
TeenSafe TeenSafe safe driver education program This program will deliver practical behind-the-wheel safe driver awareness training programs for teenagers.

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Southern Highlands      
Bowral Men's Shed Inc. BMS Web portal This project is to introduce Web Portal for the Bowral Men’s Shed. The aim of the project is to provide members and the local community with online up to date information, creating a website that gives a insight into to what the Bowral Men’s Shed is all about. Communication with members will be greatly improved through posting of, upcoming coming events, activities, project, policies and membership documents etc. 

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Highlands Community Centres Inc. Youth Hub Cafe Development of existing café kitchen at the Highlands Youth Hub to commercial standards to allow training of unemployed 18-25 year olds who want a career in the hospitality industry.  
Rotary Club of Moss Vale U Turn the Wheel Deliverly of an intensive course to 500+ year 11 high school students in driver training, emphasising road safety awareness, peer pressure & risk taking.

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Sutherland Shire      
Shire Woodworking Club Inc Woodworkers' centralised dust extraction system
The project funding will assist in the installation of a centralised dust collection system to ensure the health and well-being of the members, together with a fence to provide security for the external collector and reduce the incidence of graffiti on the building. 
 

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Shirelive Limited Shirelive Youth Synergy Schools Conference is a multi-school conference held at Shirelive auditorium reaching over 500 students aimed at empowering young people to succeed in all areas of their life. The Schools Tour is a dynamic school tour reaching up to 8,000 High School Students in one week with full school assemblies and performances, and year group specific performances and sessions, encouraging students to overcome the challenges that they face and become all they can be.

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Sylvania Heights Public School Kind Kids Club The grant provides funding for a Kind Kids Club that involves running a play therapy program for students at Sylvania Heights Public School with anxiety, autism, behaviour or social disabilities. The program will use student leaders and trained adults to teach students resilience and social functioning through play.

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Sydney City      
PCYC Parramatta Stand Tall The purpose of the program is to interact and educate and enable an interaction between youth at risk of becoming detached from schooling, due to either behavioural issues, or learning difficulties. The program will aim to direct youth at risk away from making negative decisions in their life that may affect their future development.  
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Limited  Health Check Booth The Health Check Booth is a fully mobile heart health testing service that comes to you, testing blood pressure, total cholesterol, blood sugar levels and aiming to help people understand how to keep their own heart healthy by providing information on heart disease risk factors and healthy heart habits.

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Sydney West      
PCYC Campbelltown PCYC Campbelltown Sport Outreach PCYC Campbelltown’s Sport Outreach is an innovative concept to extend influence in the community. This project will involve the manufacture of a custom built trailer which will be fitted out with a range of sporting equipment for use in the Macarthur region. The trailer will serve multiple purposes and be used up to 15 times per month to visit schools, parks, attend events, conduct targeted programming focusing on young people congregating at known “hot spots” as well as providing an activity service to young people living in outlying areas.  
Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW Inc.  Birunji AMHU Recreational Space This project aims to turn vacant outdoor spaces into exercise areas, sensory gardens and veggie gardens providing passive and active recreation and education about healthy living skills through growing,planting, picking, preparing and cooking - resulting in positive benefits both physically & mentally to support their recovery.

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The Scout Association of Australia New South Wales Branch  Canoe Purchase Through Scouts young people build confidence, self esteem, and leadership skills. Cobbitty Scouts will purchase two canoes to teach young people canoeing and safe use of watercraft including safety gear (life jackets, paddles).

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  2014 IMB Community Foundation Projects
Organisation Project Name Project Description  
ACT/ Goulburn
Belconnen Baptist Church Inc. Shed Health and Safety Install first aid & safety equipment in the men’s shed to upgrade standards (to include welding & metalwork). Volunteer trainer to organise structured training programmes & document formal policies & procedures for members.

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Community Programs Association Recyclery Upgrade to Recyclery project with access to all bicycles at the Green Shed tip, giving potential to triple throughput, increasing employment & training opportunities for disabled people. Repaired bikes on-sold to students & community.

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Parkinson's ACT Inc. Dancing for People with Parkinson's Deliver innovative dance classes for people with Parkinson’s & their friends, focusing on specific concerns such as mobility, balance, rhythm & flexibility in an enjoyable, social & communal environment.

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Rotary Club Of Canberra Young Driver Awareness Campaign Deliver RYDA Young Driver Awareness program to up to 1200 school students, with emphasis on road safety awareness, peer pressure & risk taking.

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Rotary Club of Goulburn Inc. U-Turn The Wheel Deliver intensive courses for year 11 high school students in driver training, emphasising road safety awareness, peer pressure & risk taking.

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SouthCare Helicopter Fund Snowy Hydro SouthCare Education Program Educate school children about safety awareness & how the local rescue helicopter contributes to the health & wellbeing of the South Eastern communities.

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St John Ambulance Australia (ACT) Inc. Event Health Service Clinics Establish six portable health clinics for St John ACT Health Care Professionals & First Responders to operate from when deployed at community events.

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Tallong Public School Centenary Celebration and Commemoration Host two events in October 2014 to celebrate educational milestones. Strong educational theme on history & heritage over past 150 yrs; create a publication with both living & past history.

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Vision Australia Ltd. DAISY Online - Bridging the Online Divide Upgrade & connect “DAISY” online to enable members to read audio books, newspapers & give them access to a wide range of information & education.

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Illawarra      
Bulli High Environment Sustainment Deliver an environmental preservation project that focuses on student involvement, community participation & building practices that will sustain the environment of the school community.

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City of Wollongong Eisteddfod Inc. Eisteddfod Electronic Lodgement New technology to allow parents, competitors, teachers, organisers & volunteers to submit backing tracks for vocals or dance & poems for speech & drama sections to a central hub, to reduce performance errors & omissions.

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Friends of Curtis Park Arboretum Birds of the Arboretum Assist visitors to identify the various birds with picture signage & an information booklet.  
George Cross Falcons Club Carpentry Workshop Upgrade & improve existing carpentery workshop (tools, timber, paints & brushes) to enable team to increase output of toys & useful items for disadvantaged & sick children.

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Illawarra Community Safety Brigade Illawarra Community Safety Van Fitout Design & fit-out of Safety Van used to increase awareness & education of community on fire risks & bush
fire preparedness.

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Illawarra Quilters Inc. Illawarra Quilters Community Youth Quilts Expand the participation & training of members in providing quilts for numerous disadvantaged members of
the community.

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Killalea State Park Trust Killalea Valley Regeneration Project Launch the Valley Regeneration Project which aims to restore the natural vegetation in the valley area behind the lagoon & increase community volunteerism.

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Lions Club of Strzelecki Cows Create Careers Introduce students to various careers in the dairy industry with an academic & hands-on training module, which includes bringing calves into schools.  
NSW Police Force - Wollongong Police Getting On In Wollongong Develop two educational videos in relation to staying safe, crime prevention & accessing help, for international students & newly arrived refugees, featuring local police, volunteers, life guards, emergency workers & university students.

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PCYC Wollongong Break Free Cafe Provide young offenders, youth at risk & disadvantaged youth who are being case managed by Wollongong PCYC Police Youth Case Managers, with skills to enhance work opportunities in the hospitality industry.

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Peterborough School Disability Options Directory Compile, print & distribute to 400+ people at annual Disability Expo a “Disability Options Directory,” covering education, post-school services, government/non-government services, leisure & recreational services & web guides to service providers.

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Rotary Club of Corrimal Inc. Imagination Library Illawarra Promote literacy & a love of reading so children start school ready & keen to learn, by posting registered preschool children an age appropriate book with tips sheet for parents each month.

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Rotary Club of Kiama Inc. Mental Health First Aid Courses
Run two free, nationally certified mental health first aid courses for the community, youth & particularly carers to raise awareness of mental health issues.

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SCARF Water Safety Awareness Project Provide water safety education for members of the local refugee community by highlighting the role water plays
in a coastal lifestyle & the importance of water safety knowledge & practices.

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Scouts Australia (Mt Keira) Mt Keira Challenge Valley Build a state of the art, user-friendly, safe & community acceptable training facility for locals & tourists called
“Challenge Valley Obstacle Course.”
 
Shellharbour City Arts Society Inc. Shellharbour City Arts Precinct Turn a neglected building into an arts precinct for Shellharbour & neighbouring precincts to enhance tourism
& create job opportunities whilst also providing a place for community groups to meet.

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U3A Shoalhaven Third Age of Learning Inc. Reinventing U3A Shoalhaven Upgrade & improve educational amenities in Nowra premises, to enable U3A to expand their reach & enhance
the collaborative learning experience.

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Wollongong Conservatorium of Music IMB/Roger Soden Scholarship Year 2 Provide a scholarship (annually over 5 years) for a student musician at Wollongong Conservatorium.  
Wollongong Workshop Theatre Inc. Workshop Theatre Digitise & create hard copy of all archives of Wollongong's oldest theatre company, for donation to library or museum.

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South Coast      
Arts Council of Eurobodalla Inc. Art Central Maintenance Program Carry out building renovation work on existing building owned by the Arts Council of Eurobodalla at Art Central
in Moruya.

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Crossing Land Education Trust Young Leaders in Sustainable Land Management Connect motivated year 10 agriculture students in S.E. NSW with sustainable land management practices, experience, mentors & traineeship options, including support to achieve a UNESCO Young Masters on Sustainable Development & development of an innovative sustainable agriculture project.

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Eden Marine Centre Ltd. Marine Debris - Clean up your act! Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre will work with local schools to 'clean up their act' by having students tidy up the local beaches, whilst learning about marine debris, its environmental impact & what they can do to help.

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EuroSCUG INC. Internet Savvy Seniors Extend the successful 'IMB Cyber Classrooms for Seniors' project by offering hands on training by seniors for seniors, using tablets, smartphones or other computers.

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Legacy Club of Queanbeyan-
Eden- Monaro Inc.
Replacement of Membership
Database Computer
Replace membership database computer for "Legacy," an assistance program for the families of men & women who served in wars involving Australia & have since died.

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Murramarang Mens Shed Inc. Equip the Murramarang Mens Shed Purchase tools to enable the Murramarang Mens Shed to construct its shed, participate in community projects & assist people in need in local communities of Termeil, Bawley Point & Kioloa.

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Narooma District Woodcrafters Association Inc. CNC Router Acquire & install computer-numerical-controlled router & software in order to train supervisors & develop courses for members, other clubs & high schools.

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SouthernCare Inc. Pantry Plus Expand facilities in Food Pantry to improve capacity to deliver to vulnerable & disadvantaged people & families; includes “domestic” training.

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TeenSafe Teensafe Safe Driver Education Program Deliver practical behind-the-wheel safe driver awareness training programs for teenagers  
Southern Highlands      
BCD Community Care Inc. Youth/Carers Mentoring Program Launch Youth Hub to provide: BBQ cooking, meal preparation, cleaning, movie social nights, social media training & after-hours youth & young carers development in a safe learning environment.

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Rotary Club of Moss Vale U-Turn The Wheel Deliver intensive course to 500+ year 11 high school students in driver training, emphasising road safety awareness, peer pressure & risk taking.

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Southern Highlands Botanic
Gardens Ltd.
Plant Education & Propagation Area Seed funding to expand facilities to provide chemicals & equipment storage to support propagation & protection of endemic & rare plant species to develop the gardens.

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Macarthur      
Camden District Care Inc. Discovering New Talents Introduce 2 new programmes for the aged & those living with disabilities of all ages to “Develop New Talents,”
including art classes, floral work & skills enhancement to encourage companionship & assist with independent living.
 
Camden Mens Shed Camden Mens Shed Centre Build a new shed to house equipment & operate a training centre for members & young people to work together.

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PCYC Liverpool Fit for Life Deliver the “Fit for Life” 10 week project to young people, that assists in developing skills & attitudes for their futures, including leadership & self awareness, exercise, nutrition & community engagement.  
Robert Townson High School Older, Wiser and Learners (OWLS) Team Two groups of year 10 & 11 boys to visit aged care facilities in the Macarthur region, to work with older men in a companionship program of playing games, music, talking, reading & mentoring.

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Sydney      
PCYC Parramatta Stand Tall Deliver an interactive program to direct youth-at-risk & young offenders away from negative decision making
& to re-engage with education.

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Port Hacking Potters Group 48th Port Hacking Pottery Competition Hold a biennial exhibition at the Hazelhurst Gallery, Gymea to enable accomplished, novice & beginning potters to exhibit their work & provide a source of inspiration to others.

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Project Youth Cafe Y Menai Renovate & fit out an existing café, in preparation for a program that will provide careers training in hospitality,
for young people who face adversity.

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Sydney Story Factory Inc. Volunteer Workshop Leader
Training Pilot
Deliver creative writing workshop leader training for Sydney Story Factory. Volunteers to lead their own workshops in order to reach more marginalised youth across NSW.  
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Health Check Booth Bring a fully mobile heart health testing service to the community, including testing blood pressure, total cholesterol
& blood sugar levels, as well as providing information on heart disease risk factors & healthy heart habits.

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  2013 IMB Community Foundation Projects
Organisation Project Name Project Description
ACT/ Goulburn
Canberra Model Railway Club Inc. Facilitating Community Interaction Set up the transportability of Model Railway Layouts; promoting education of the heritage of rail, encouraging interaction with a wide variety of community groups and providing skills development across all ages.
Community Programs Association Recyclery Provide employment opportunities, training and skills development for disabled employees and volunteer students via expansion of an existing not-for-profit recyclery providing inexpensive, refurbished bikes for sale to ANU and the wider community.
Federation of Chinese Community of Canberra Inc. Chinese School Celebration of 20 Years Contribution to the Community  Publish a book (free to the community) to celebrate 20 years of the Federation's work and hold an event that encourages youth participation, enhances multiculturalism and promotes Chinese culture.

Goulburn Mulwarree Council

 

Repair & Upgrade Belmore Park Rotunda Renovate and preserve the Belmore Park Rotunda, a heritage landmark; restore original iron-lace work and flooring.
Nichole Overall

Queanbeyan - City of Champions

Produce a high quality pictorial book on the social history of Queanbeyan, covering 175 years since its settlement.

Rotary Club of Canberra RYDA - Rotary Clubs ACT - Youth Safety Awareness Conduct young driver road safety awareness programs, and hold workshops across a number of ACT high schools.
Rotary Club of Goulburn U-Turn-The-Wheel Hold intensive courses for high school students in driver training that emphasise road safety awareness. Series of classes & workshops with high-profile experienced facilitators.
Scout Association of Australia, ACT Branch - Birralee Enhancement of Scout Hall Facilities Extensions and fit-out to enable sustainable works development to the Birralee Scout Hall. Encourage greater public use of the hall.
SOS-Canberra SOS Canberra (Supporting Our Sisters) Expand an existing program with the aim of supporting young women and reduce incidences of intoxication and assault. Empower young women to start their own community projects.
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Health Check Booth in ACT Provide a fully mobile Health Check Booth to benefit ACT communities by testing up to 1,000 participants for blood pressure, total cholesterol and blood sugar levels. 
Illawarra    
Art Arena Gallery and Studios Inc. Art Arena IT Project  Provide a mentor program for emerging and established visual artists with a focus on information and technology training.
Church of Christ Community Care Outdoor Work Area - Men's Shed Extend work space with concrete pad and awning in front of existing small shed to allow increased membership and improve the already strong project delivery to the community. 
Illawarra Drug Awareness Group Ltd Illawarra Healthy Kids Enable over 15,000 students in more than 50 schools around the Illawarra (Thirroul to Shellharbour) to be educated and empowered to make informed choices for a safe and healthy life.
The Illawarra History Workshop Inc. The Dictionary of Wollongong Implement the first stage of a larger project to produce the history of Wollongong via community engagement, by building online intereactive resources for participation. 
Illawarra Quilters Inc. Illawarra Quliters Community Quilts Project Make quilts for a broad spectrum of disadvantaged people within the community, particularly for recipient organisations such as Youth off the Streets, Lighthouse and SCARF. 
Lions Club of Strzelecki
 
Cows Create Careers Introduce students to various careers in the dairy industry with an academic and a hands-on training module, which includes bringing calves into the schools.
North West Community Care Walking Bus - Lakelands Public School Introduce Walking Bus Project at Lakelands Public School to encourage children to walk to school in a supervised group, developing health, fitness, social skills and independence.
Older Musicians Club of Australia Older Musicians Club of Australia Promote music as an aid to mental health issues and combating depression through established links with Denny and Beyond Blue.
Raise the Gong Inc. Health and Wellbeing for Women Provide local women with free Chemo Care Kits at Wollongong clinics which are filled with products, discounted services, also personal development classes. 
Rotary Club of Kiama Inc. Mental Health First Aid Course Provide two free, nationally certified mental health first aid courses in the community, for up to 80 people to establish greater awareness of mental health issues.
Shellharbour City U3A Inc. Advanced learning for Shellharbour Seniors Set up special courses for lonely/isolated seniors in the community, and promoting U3A to increase membership.
Stockyard Creek Bushcare Group Step into Stockyard Slope Construct steps for community and visitors to access BushCare site at Wombarra and enable better site management, including re-generation/re-vegetation.
University of Wollongong Learning, Creating, Sharing in Early Education Train early childhood educators to utilise Interactive Whiteboard resources to provide wide-engagement opportunities for teachers to share with children. 
Wollongong Conservatorium of Music IMB/Roger Soden Scholarship Yr 2 Provide a scholarship (annual over 5 years) for a student musician at Wollongong Conservatorium. 
South Coast    
Batemans Bay Men's Shed Extension of Men's Shed Establish a space to cater for growing membership, guest speakers and train/refresh the skills of the young and old.
Bega and District Historical Machinery Club Inc. Bega Historical Machinery Club Provide suitable premises to house historical machinery and train the younger generation in restoration processes.
Bega District Hospital Auxiliary Bega Hospital Auxiliary Provide materials to allow for the maintenance of proper records and better manage fund-raising activities in the community.
Bega Men's Shed Inc. Bega Needs a Men's Shed Facilitate construction of a Men's Shed on the Old Bega Hospital site to help reduce isolation and depression in the high percentage of men who live alone in the region.
Eurobodalla Woodcraft Guild Woodworking Hand Tools for Training Provide new woodworking hand tools for the workshop to train and educate all ages and improve overall skill levels.
Friends of Curtis Park Arboretum Water Tank; Plumbing; Conservation Provide and install a water tank for an establishing Arboretum at Shoalhaven Heads; educate community groups in use of the conserved water, re-use of garden water and tank water with native plants.
Lady Denman Heritage Complex Inc Restoration of the 'Crest' Restore a historically significant motor launch, by encouraging active participation and training of community volunteers in the wooden boat-building craft at Huskisson. 
Milton District Bland Inc. Band Music in Milton Conduct weekly workshops to develop instrument skills, teach beginners and prepare music for community performances. Expand existing free tuition programs to all community members, particularly the aged. 
Pig and Whistle Fleet Club Inc. Audio/Visual History Provide equipment to record oral and visual history from older residents to preserve community heritage and increase tourists/visitors to the Tathra Wharf Museum.
TeenSafe Moruya TeenSafe Safe Driver Education Program Continue to provide the successful Safe Driver Education programs to community teens, in a "hands on" environment. 
Ulladulla Men's Shed Inc. Better Results with Reduced Noise Upgrade machinery for working with recycled timber, to reduce high noise level and improve safety. 
Southern Highlands    
Bowral and District Art Society Inc. (BDAS) BDAS Sculpture Garden Expand art facilities with a low maintenance Sculpture Garden to give the wider community access to the creative arts.
Highlands Community Centres Inc. MPower Tutoring Program Provide professional and free after-school tutoring for all senior students (12-18 years) studying in the Wingecarribee Shire.
Rotary Club of Moss Vale U-Turn-The-Wheel Hold intensive courses for high school students in driver training that emphasise road safety awareness.
Theatre for All Inc. Theatre for All Coordinate three sub-projects, involving Small Hall Theatre, Small School Theatre and Highlands Video Group that train kids and members in developing and performing theatre for public audiences in Wingecarribee Shire.
Macarthur    
Airds Bradbury Men's Shed More Space - More Participation Reorganise, renovate and relocate machinery in the Shed to create greater space for current membership, address the waiting list and increase community involvement.
Camden Community Connections Inc. Connecting Women by the Stroke of a Brush Run a series of art therapy workshops and information sessions in the community to help improve family life, social connections and interactions, self-esteem and personal development. 
Camden District Care Inc. Camden District Care Learning Technology Acquire iPads to introduce new technology to a wide range of less fortunate aged and youth (including the disabled). 
Campbelltown Senior Cyber Seekers Inc. Travelling Tutors Train volunteer tutors to deliver improved basic computer skills courses off-site to seniors at various centres, (retirement villages, community centres) concentrating on Housing NSW people. 
Lynwood Park Rural Fire Brigade Rural Fire Service 'Hot House' Training Facility Upgrade existing, inadequate hot house training facility to better serve a wide range of Rural Fire Service zones in Southern Sydney/Macarthur.
Marrickville Community Training Centre Inc. Seniors On-Line Budgeting, Banking and BPay Deliver a 10-week course in Minto (2 hours each session) to train seniors to use simple budgeting tools and resources, understand Internet Banking processes and learn BPAY systems.
Narrellans Men's Shed Fit Out Men's Shed Fit-out of new shed that will assist senior men with social interaction, skills transfer and health issues, through the delivery of workshops, youth mentoring, sustainable gardening, alternative power systems and other community projects.
Robert Townson High School (Raby) QuikShine Team Run a strong intergenerational program where students receive work-related and volunteer training (with TAFE input) to deliver personal services including personal grooming and care.
Sydney Metropolitan    
Cronulla High School TechnologyHelp@Cronulla High School Run technology focused programs, involve students and volunteers in community service projects, train students in peer coaching and expand the school's community linkages.
Enough is Enough Anti-Violence Movement Inc. Positive Solutions Bullying Resilience Program Provide Primary School Students with effective strategies and mechanisms for coping with bullying through the recently developed 'Bullying Resilience Project'.
National Heart Foundation of Australia (NSW Division) Saving Lives from Heart Attacks Develop comprehensive hard-copy resources for "Managing My Heart Health" which provides individually tailored plans to aid recovery, promote lifesaving changes to reduce heart attacks; delivered across several hospitals.
PCYC NSW ( Parramatta) THINK Program Deliver an education-based course aimed at directing youth-at-risk away from "negative" decisions, by exploring the consequences of crime, promoting positive interactions with police and covering a range of cyber-type crime issues.
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Health Check Booth Provide a fully mobile Health Check Booth to benefit communities by testing up to 1,000 participants for blood pressure, total cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

 

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Established in 1880, IMB Bank is one of the most enduring financial institutions in the country, helping people achieve their financial goals for over 140 years. Our members can access a fully featured range of services: home and personal lending, savings and transaction accounts, term deposits, business banking, and more.

Our renowned personal service is backed by innovation, providing convenient, secure digital banking options where and when you want it. IMB also has a growing retail branch network throughout NSW and Victoria, for when you need to speak to someone in person, and a team of professionals at our locally based contact centre. We have a lending specialist in every branch and a team of mobile lending specialists who will come to you.

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