A $51,000 grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund will see Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch able to offer increased Community Patient Transport for veterans and their family members.
The grant, with assistance from the Women’s Auxiliary who also donated funds, enabled the Sub-Branch to purchase two new vehicles locally.
The vehicles will be used to transport veterans to hospital visits and medical appointments in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The Sub-Branch is also looking to purchase a new mini bus in 2024.
Volunteer drivers are used to transport the patients and more drivers are desperately needed.
“You can have up to 10 or 12 patients booked in on one day and then you’ve got to work out the best way to coordinate everyone,” said Joanne Heit.
Joanne said that having the two cars as well as the existing bus will make it a lot easier to coordinate transport for patients, however the need for additional drivers is desperate.
Volunteer drivers need a drivers licence and police check but it is very rewarding and a much needed service in the area.
Transport is available five days a week from Monday to Friday.
State Member for Scenic Rim congratulated the Sub-Branch on the grant.
“It was a great application to support,” he said.
“The RSL volunteers contribute in excess of half a million dollars’ worth of time annually to help veterans get to and from hospital stays and appointments – a huge contribution.”
Applications for the next round of the fund will be opened in the new year.
Any group seeking information on how to apply, or for support in their application, should contact Jon Krause’s office on 5515 1100.
To enquire about becoming a volunteer driver contact Beaudesert RSL Sub Branch on 5541 3720.
