RACQ Foundation spokesperson Emma Green said charities, community groups and sporting clubs across the State could apply for funding of up to $50,000, or up to $100,000 in exceptional circumstances, to help them recover from cyclones, floods, bushfires and drought.

“Community organisations are the backbone of regional towns, and when they’re struggling, the whole community suffers,” Ms Green said.

“The devastation caused by natural disasters, both financially and emotionally, can be long lasting, and funding through the RACQ Foundation is one of the ways we help communities recover.”

Community groups are still rebuilding more than seven months on from the devastating south east Queensland floods.

Since the disaster, RACQ Foundation has pledged $2.1 million to assist those affected to pay for rebuilding costs and the replacement equipment and amenities.

The Toorbul Pony Club received funding to replace a flood-damaged ride-on-mower to maintain the more than four hectares of grounds.

Toorbul Pony Club volunteer Pennie Eckel said the support from RACQ had not only helped with repairs but had lifted the spirit of the club.

“Being a small club run by volunteers, maintenance of the grounds is critical for us to run our events keeping riders and horses safe,” Ms Eckel said.

“As many of our members went under in the February floods it was overwhelming for the club to also be impacted as it is a happy place for our members and horses.

“Thanks to RACQ Foundation, morale is back to an all-time high. We’re very proud to show off our little club and it has created optimism for the members that are still not back in their houses.”

Jindalee Bowls Club received funding to purchase items for a temporary clubhouse including a lockable fridge, dishwashers, cash register, storage and the replacement of the office computer, printer, and copier.

“It is clear how this has increased the morale and happiness within the Club,” Club Chairman, Paul Kearnan said.

RACQ volunteers recently visited the South Brisbane District Cricket Club to help restore the grounds. The Club also received funding for the removal of existing flood-damaged sight screen structures and the replacement of two mobile sight screens.

Vice President Alex Robynson said the cricket grounds are important to families in the community.

“At times it’s more than just a cricket club, it’s a place for people to come together and a beautiful place to watch cricket as well,” Mr Robynson said.

“We get contacted all the time by former and life members asking how the club is going, so clearly it stays with families for a long time.

“During the floods, the water came up and above our clubhouse and about three quarters of the way up the sight screen.

“The fields and the fence were all under water, and the shed and nets were all damaged.

“It was a big effort to get back up and running. Souths can’t thank the RACQ Foundation enough.”

The latest round of funding closes 5pm, 7 October 2022. More information on how to apply can be found here.