The New Acland Coal Community Investment Fund recently awarded $300K to Toowoomba charity, Outback Instincts, so it can deliver hands-on, farm-based youth programs for young people who are disengaged, isolated, or doing it tough.

The funding, split over two years, will allow Outback Instincts to support an additional 50 young people, so they can rediscover stability, confidence, and hope for a positive future.

Outback Instincts Founder, and Chairperson, Hayley Chambers said New Acland Coal’s support will save and transform young lives.

“The funding is life changing,” Ms Chambers said.

“It will change the participants lives, their family’s lives, and the lives of everyone around them.

“Outback Instincts is a youth charity that uses animal assisted programs, trades, and rural farm life to help young people who are disengaged, at risk, or vulnerable.

“I regularly see young people going from completely disengaged and having no hope for their future, to realising there are pathways for them back into education, friendships, family, and community.”

14-year old Izzy Randall was expelled from four schools before discovering purpose, and joy at Outback Instincts.

“Ever since I started coming to Outback Instincts, my whole life has turned around,” Izzy said.

“I was going down the wrong path, hanging out with the wrong people.

“Hayley and Outback Instincts have reminded me that I can succeed, and that I do belong.

“I love horses and one day want to work in agriculture or on a cattle station.”

New Acland Coal General Manager, Dave O’Dwyer said the $300K contribution is courtesy of the New Acland Coal Community Investment Fund, which supports the long-term wellbeing, economic development, and social cohesion of the Toowoomba region.

“Youth and community engagement is one of the key pillars of the New Acland Coal Community Investment Fund,” Mr O’Dwyer said.

“The funding will directly benefit 50 young people, and allow Outback Instincts to deliver long?term, resilience-building programs, including youth development, education pathways, and social support programs.

“New Acland Coal has a long and proud history of supporting and financially backing the local community via strong investment in the towns surrounding New Acland Mine. This investment in Outback Instincts will be life changing for the program’s young people.

“Sponsoring and supporting local community groups, sporting teams, schools, and charities, like Outback Instincts, allows New Acland Coal to build stronger and more sustainable communities surrounding our operation.

“Over the past two years, New Acland Coal has spent $113.4 million with 599 local suppliers, donated more than $2 million to local community groups and schools and provided in-kind support to countless community activities and events.”

New Acland Coal Community Investment Fund applications are now open. Applications must be received from an incorporated community group, club, association, community-based organisation, or recognised academic institution (such as a school or university).

New Acland Coal Community Investment Fund programs:

• The NAC Sponsorship Program provides funding up to $5,000* and supports smaller-scale initiatives that strengthen community connection and enhance participation in sporting, cultural, educational, and health activities.
• The NAC Community Development Program provides funding of more than $5,000* and supports sustainable community initiatives that improve local infrastructure, enhance economic development, or provide measurable community benefit.
• The NAC Community Bursary Program provides financial assistance of up to $10,000*, learning resources, to individuals, supporting continued study and the development of skills in fields essential to the region’s long?term sustainability, growth, and resilience.
• The NAC Community Partnerships Program provides funding of more than $10,000* and is designed for strategic partnerships with community organisations to deliver long?term, resilience-building programs, including youth development, education pathways, community capability building, and social support programs.
• The NAC Legacy Program provides funding of more than $20,000* and is focused on long-term, high-impact infrastructure or social investment that will deliver enduring benefits to the region.

*Per successful applicant, annually.