Underfunding our own cleverness has a price
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April 14, 2021 12.01am
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The Age, email letters@theage.com.au. Please include your home address and telephone number.
VACCINE
Underfunding our own cleverness has a price
As a veteran observer of the ups and downs of federal commitment to funding worthy research, it seems that Australia was in a strong position to develop a vaccine that would have been sought after by the rest of the world. The consequences of the delays in vaccine rollout directly affect our ability to competitively bounce back after COVID-19 and prompts the question: what can we learn from the situation?
Cumbria Community Foundation is urging more community groups in the Wigton area to apply for funding through the Joyce Wilkinson Charitable Trust Fund. Joyce Wilkinson, who lived in Westward, left a lasting legacy to her community and a wonderful way to be remembered. Since the fund was managed by the Foundation in 2006, more than 91 local organisations have benefited from a share of £600,000. One of the organisations to have benefitted year on year from grants is the Northern Fells Group, receiving a total of 26 awards. Other groups have included Wigton Baths, Chrysalis and Citizen Advice Allerdale. Like many leisure facilities, Wigton Baths was closed for most of last year, resulting in a loss of income. The 115 year old community baths will continue to offer its facilities thanks to a grant for £5,000 meaning residents and school children can continue enjoying the wellbeing benefits of swimming.