Bravus Mining and Resources has joined forces with School Savvy CQ to help regional Queensland kids get back to school with the resources needed to help them succeed in the classroom.
Bravus Mining and Resources chief operating officer Mick Crowe said the business was delighted to be able to use its Community Partnership Program to support the work of School Savvy CQ.
The Bravus Mining and Resources’ Community Partnership Program provides not-for-profit businesses, groups, and associations in central and north Queensland grants of up to $10,000 to enhance communities through education, skills development, health, sustainability, environmental stewardship, or social welfare.
“School Savvy CQ is a fantastic initiative that helps ease the financial burden on families by offering second-hand uniforms and essential booklist stationery at extremely low cost,” Crowe said.
“Starting the school year can be a stressful time for families, and no child should start their education at a disadvantage because of financial challenges.
“We’re passionate about creating opportunities and pathways for the next generation of regional Queenslanders and through School Savvy CQ we’re helping pave the way for the future leaders who’ll make our communities a more vibrant and prosperous place.”
School Savvy CQ has successfully helped thousands of children across the mine’s footprint, including the key areas of Rockhampton, Yeppoon, Gracemere, and Mackay, prepare for school since 2019.
CatholicCare’s general manager for community care Joshua McNally-Mannes said the start of the school year can be a hard time for many families as costs can add up very quickly.
“Every year local families tell us just how much of a lifeline School Savvy is for them, and that’s why we do what we do, that’s what keeps us motivated,” McNally-Mannes said.
“Our pop-up shops are designed to make back-to-school shopping manageable for everyone. Families can come and pick up what they need for just a few dollars per item or per bundle pack.
“We want every child to walk into their classroom on their first day of school feeling confident, included, and ready to learn. That’s what School Savvy is all about.”
Crowe said Bravus Mining and Resources remained deeply committed to Rockhampton, with offices on Victoria Parade and hundreds of workers flying between the city and the Carmichael mine each week.
“Our Carmichael mine near Clermont is now well into its third year of operations and is responsibly producing high quality thermal coal to meet growing international demand,” Crowe said.
“Rockhampton’s support was integral to securing the Carmichael mine’s approvals, and the city remains central to our ongoing success now that the mine is going from strength to strength in operations.
“It’s the success of the mine and the efforts of the more than 1200 men and women who work there that enable us to support not-for-profit organisations and community groups like School Savvy CQ and provide opportunities locals wouldn’t otherwise have.
“Our Community Partnership Program has clear guidelines and criteria your initiative or cause must meet, but, if you qualify, we’d love to hear from you and help where we can.”
The other grant recipients in Round 4 of the 2024 Community Partnership Program were:
- North Knights Junior Rugby League, Rockhampton – training balls and carry bag
- Central Highlands Wildlife Carers, Emerald – fuel vouchers and vet clinic support at Maraboon Vet Surgery
- Clermont Kindergarten Day Care Centre – soft fall mats for outdoor learning space
- Commercial Hockey Club, Townsville – goalkeeping equipment
- White Cloud Foundation, Townsville – providing practical support for new mums who are at risk of, or experiencing, perinatal depression.
Applications for the first round of 2025 Bravus Mining and Resources Community Partnership Program are now open. For more information about the program or to apply, head here.
