The Tamworth Motorcycle Club have received a welcome funding boost with the coronavirus pandemic putting the brakes on their fundraising endeavours.
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The Oakburn Park-based club is the April winner of Greater Bank's #GreaterNewEngland program, picking up $3000.
Club president Paul Slade said the money will be a huge help for them. While they aren't racing during the crisis, they still have financial commitments to keep the doors open.
"Like most facilities, we've been shut down because of COVID-19 but it is still costing us around $1000 a month in rates and council fees to keep the track open. That's before you factor in maintenance and upkeep of the track, grounds and the facilities," Slade said.
"We rely heavily on the generosity of our active members and supporters to support our fundraising activities that keeps our club financial. While we're doing ok at the moment, a boost like this from Greater Bank is a huge help for us.
"It means less digging into our coffers to keep the place going until we can get people back to the track and kick start our traditional fundraising."
The club is scheduled to host the Australian Championships in September, which Slade is cautiously optimistic will still go ahead.
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"There's a lot to happen before then but we are really hopeful that we can host the Australian Championship in September," he said.
"It's a big event, not only for the club but the whole region with people coming from all around the country to take part, both as riders and spectators."
The two runners-up were the Gunnedah Netball Association and Tamworth City BMX Club, and will each receive a $1,000 grant.
The BMX club took to social media to express their thanks to everyone that voted for them.
"We have been awarded with $1,000 towards our club to help us rebuild and grow again," the post read.
"We look forward showing you all our progress as a club again ASAP!"
Greater Bank's Regional Manager, Jennifer Smith, has seen first-hand the struggles many community groups are facing through the COVID-19 crisis and was delighted that the funding program can help community group through to the other side.
"There are so many groups struggling from the impacts of COVID-19 and looking for alternative outlets for funding. We're delighted to play our part with the through the #GreaterNewEngland program to provide funding support to groups across the region," she said.
Voting for the May winner is open now until Wednesday May 27. Vying for their share in $5,000 will be Soundtrails - Tamworth Branch, Armidale Neighbourhood Centre and The Gunnedah Good Noshery.
