The scheme, which was introduced by the NSW Government in 1998, allows clubs to claim a tax deduction of up to 1.5 per cent on gaming machine revenue of more than $1 million for money spent on community support.

The NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing at the time Richard Face said it recognised the role of registered clubs in their local communities.

“It provides the Government with a more effective method of rewarding clubs for the support they provide to these communities,” he said.

There are two categories for funding under the CDSE scheme.

Category 1 is for community welfare and social services, community development, community health services and employment assistance activities.

The Lightning Ridge Bowling Club donated the money on May 23 to a range of local organisations, including Chuck Peters from the Lightning Ridge Men’s Shed ($5000), Karin Thurston from the Lightning Ridge Neighbourhood Centre ($4200), Christina Johansson from the Yawarra Meamei Women’s Group ($2000), Ana Vastag from the TCC Migrant Information and Referral Service ($2500), Phil Wright from the Royal Flying Doctor Service Dubbo Support Group - Lightning Ridge Sub-Branch ($10,000) and Gary Flood from the Aged Care Units ($2500).

Members of the men’s shed cheered when their president accepted the cheque from the bowling club on behalf of their group.

Although all the groups were very grateful for the support shown to them by the bowling club, the men’s shed were particularly vociferous

in showing their appreciation.

Category 2 is for other community development and support services such as sport and recreation groups.

It has not yet been finalised which organisations have received funding under Category 2.

A full list will be available closer to the end of the financial year.