The Giru State School pool is going green as a new solar power system is installed thanks to funding through Queensland Country Bank’s Good for Good Community Grants program.
Jade Lyons from the Giru State School Parents and Citizens Association (Giru SS P&C) said that the $25,101 grant from Queensland Country Bank will save them thousands in electricity bills.
“There is no way we can cover power costs just on patronage alone, being a small community,” Ms Lyons said.
“Queensland Country Bank’s contribution truly reduces that burden and enables the community of Giru to continue to have access to wonderful programs like swimming lessons, aerobics and community fun nights.”
The pool, which is located within the grounds of the Giru State School, is the town’s only pool and is open for public use outside of school hours. Increased patronage has seen their electricity bill soar to $6,200 a year and was set to increase in line with the rising cost of electricity.
Queensland Country Bank’s Burdekin Area Manager, Deb Szendrey said she’s thrilled that they can support the Giru SS P&C to cultivate a space that will benefit not just the community but the environment as well.
“We take great pride, as a Member-owned organisation in supporting projects like this that will leave a long-lasting, positive impact in the community but also on our planet,” she said.
“The pool provides a place where the Giru community can come together to engage in positive, healthy interactions that support local people and businesses, something that Queensland Country Bank is incredibly passionate about.”
Ms Lyons said the Giru SS P&C primarily runs a number of initiatives to raise funds such as a tuck shop, Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls and the School Fete and would have taken years to be able to fund this project on their own.
“We’re incredibly grateful to receive the grant towards the pool. The Good for Good program is a fantastic opportunity to complete those larger projects that otherwise take years to fundraise for. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without Queensland Country Bank’s assistance.”