Community groups shown cash care

The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River’s community care fund has dished out more support for local groups.

In the latest round assigned from the $2 million fund, the Margaret River Wine Association received $25,000, the Margaret River Farmer’s Market $20,000, and the Cowaramup Lions Club $3680.

Swim school Swimming Women also received about $2600 to fund a free, eight-week ocean swimming program as well as online training.

“The initiative aims to connect community members, supporting mental health and social cohesiveness during this time,” a Shire statement said.

The Lions would use the funds for emergency relief food for stranded international travellers.

The MRWA’s money would go “towards the development and execution of a consolidated online marketing campaign aimed at generating sales, boosting local cash flow and increasing awareness of our local wines to new audiences”.

The Farmer’s Market’s $20,000 would help with its new “click-and-collect” service for food producers.

Shire president Ian Earl said the money would bolster businesses “facing huge challenges as a result of the pandemic”.