Purchasing new equipment such as masks and fins will be the priority for the recently resurrected UNE Scuba and Snorkeling, following its win in the #GreaterNewEngland Community Funding Program.
UNE Scuba and Snorkeling has received $3,000 after taking out the public vote in the October round, with monthly runners-up, Gunnedah & District Pony Club and Kaigan Kan Karate Bendemeer each receiving $1,000.
UNE Scuba and Snorkeling Diving Officer, Kirsty Jeffery, said the club helps regional divers explore our coastal waters.
“We hold monthly pool nights offering the opportunity to experience scuba diving for the first time in a safe environment or wash away dust and practise skills ready for the open water,” Kirsty said.
“We also run monthly dive trips to different locations between Newcastle and Byron Bay.
“The club has a range of dive kits available to members to facilitate diving and can help people with obtaining their qualification to dive or furthering their skills.
UNE Scuba and Snorkeling Diving Officer, Kirsty Jeffery
“Our funding comes from membership fees, grants and sausage sizzles at Bunnings, but that money only goes so far, so this contribution from Greater Bank is very welcome. It will enable us to purchase more equipment so more people can come to one of our try-dive nights and find out what it’s all about.”
Greater New England Regional Sales Manager, Will Boyd, said the UNE Scuba and Snorkelling Club provides an incredible opportunity.
“You don’t naturally think of scuba diving when you think of Armidale – a city that’s about 1,000 metres above sea level,” Will said.
“It’s a privilege to support this organisation in giving New Englanders the chance to experience diving locally and develop their skills here before taking them to open water.”
There’s another $5,000 on offer for the November round and our nominees are Bonshaw Public School (Armidale), Tamworth Tech Shed Inc. and Kindly Animal Sanctuary (Armidale).
The public can vote online at greater.com.au/greaternewengland until 5.00pm Wednesday November 23, 2022