New Hope Group, which has been supporting social and community projects throughout the Darling Downs region for more than two decades will donate $5,000 to the group. 

New Acland Mine General Manager, Dave O’Dwyer said when New Hope Group learned the Oakey Girls Guides’ future was under threat, it immediately stepped up.

“The Girl Guides movement has played a key role in the community for more than a century,” Mr O’Dwyer said.

“The group was hit-hard by COVID-19 restrictions which made fundraising impossible, placing its future at risk.

“I’m proud New Hope Group can lean in and ensure the group will continue to support girls and young women in Oakey for years to come.”

Oakey Girl Guides Group Leader Bianca Bidgood said before New Hope Group’s support the group was under threat due to soaring insurance costs and a lack of awareness.

“New Hope Group has provided the Oakey Girl Guides with the lifeline it needed to stay open,” Ms Bidgood said.

“After months of uncertainty, our future is secure, and we can now turn our attention to attracting new members to the group,”

“The Girl Guides has empowered hundreds of girls to serve their communities over the past 100 years and I’m confident there are dozens of local Oakey girls who want to make a valuable and meaningful contribution to the region.

“New Hope Group’s support also means the Oakey Girl Girls won’t have to find a new home and can stay at the School of Art’s Building, which has been our base for more than 60 years.”

New Hope Group has a rich history of supporting local community groups.

Over the past 20 years, New Hope Group has donated more than $7 million to local community groups as well as providing in-kind support to countless community activities and events.

New Hope Group is grateful for the encouragement and support it receives from the local community and will continue to proudly support Oakey and surrounds for years to come.