More than $2.5 million has been distributed to almost 250 community projects across Australia as part of RATCH-Australia’s Corporation (RAC) benefit sharing program over the past five years.

The RAC benefit sharing program contributes in excess of $250,000 every year each to the Mount Emerald, as well as the Collector community in NSW, and $58,000 to the Yandin community in WA, linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), so the funds keeps pace with inflation to support local causes.

RATCH-Australia CEO Sahachthorn Putthong said the program was designed to complement traditional corporate sponsorships but specifically share the financial benefits with communities living, playing or working nearby RAC operations.   

“It’s immensely satisfying to support local not-for-profit groups, associations, sporting or hobby clubs in making a lasting difference to everyday lives, as well as the large strategic projects for the region,” Mr. Putthong said. 

The RAC Mount Emerald Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund in five years has contributed almost $1.3 million to 161 individuals and groups across far north Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands region.

“So far the RAC Community Funds has contributed to almost 250 local projects for clubs, community groups, schools and charities, such as primary school sustainable gardens as part of their STEM program,” Mr. Putthong said.

“These smaller, local projects make such a difference to everyday lives for townships that sometimes miss out on regular government funding avenues for things like new fridges or freezers for a local meals-on-wheels group.

“The voluntary members of our Community Fund Committees deserve the biggest round of thanks for their contribution in time overseeing the funds. 

“These volunteer committee members sometimes review hundreds of applications of each year in their own time, evaluating the merit and making sure the paper-work is complete and records transparent for the community.”

In 2024, $247,870.21 has been distributed to 28 Mount Emerald local community projects across the Tablelands. The funding has helped youth groups, women’s associations, and many sports and recreation clubs.

In the latest round of funding 13 groups have been successful:

• Atherton Cricket Association Inc.
• Atherton Tablelands Hockey Association
• Better Together Community Support Inc.
• Dimbulah Swimming Club Inc.
• Tablelands Bushwalking Club Inc.
• Tinaroo Sailing Club Inc.
• Lions Club of Malanda Inc
• Malanda Community Kindergarten
• Mareeba Friends of the Hospital Foundation (FNQHF)
• Mareeba Tennis Club
• Mareeba Motor Cycle Club Inc.
• Rotary FNQ Field Days
• Walkamin Country Music Club Inc.

Projects or groups located within a 50km radius of the Mount Emerald Wind Farm or within a 40km radius of the Windy Hill Wind Farm are eligible to apply for a grant from the fund. Successful applications are chosen twice a year by Community Fund Advisory Committee, with applications accepted all year round, preferably via email to communityfund@ratchaustralia.com.
The deadlines to submit applications to be considered in the following round of funding are 31 January and 31 July each year.  For further information about the community fund or eligibility please visit: https://ratchaustralia.com/mtemerald/community/.

Photo Caption:

Newly opened virtual reality hub at the FNQ Aviation Museum in Mareeba was one of our successful RATCH-Australia Mt Emerald Community Fund applicants in 2024. Visitors can now put themselves in the pilot’s seat to learn more about the important role that aviation has played in the local area and also learn about a range of occupations at careers open days.

Testing out the gear at the September Open Day is (Left to right) Brendan Kent – FNQ Aviation Museum President, Liviana Colussi – FNQ Aviation Museum Volunteer, and RATCH-Australia’s Community Engagement Advisor – Hilda Luong.