COVID-19 grant boost

Tourism, hospitality and beauty service providers and community groups have been given a boost after receiving more than $300,000 in grants from the Shire of Ashburton.

Last week the Shire announced the first recipients of the region’s COVID-19 relief grants, with 15 organisations receiving nearly $350,000 in funding.

Local businesses to be awarded the grants include Amy’s Hair Addiction, Onslow Rodeo Association, Paraburdoo’s Table and Para Drome Supplies Store.

Shire of Ashburton President Kerry White said she was pleased local businesses and groups were making use of the support made available by the council and in partnership with Rio Tinto.

“The first round of assessments have been completed and support is being provided to a host of local businesses and community groups who demonstrated hardship and/or losses due to the restrictions put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19,” she said.

“All submissions that were presented have had some form of relief made available to them, including rent reductions, waiving of hire fees and bad debts, and a cash component that can be used to clear overhead and operating costs.”

Ms White said applications could still be submitted through an expression of interest application on the Shire of Ashburton website.