At least 30 people and community volunteers from Towns/ Villages and Progress Associations, sporting, arts, cultural and charitable organisations attended this free information and networking evening.

Deputy Mayor, Alan Ewin who was MC for the evening said, "Participants learned about how to manage their committee with local experts in legal matters, structure, governance, financials and auditing and grant funding applications.

Council is very pleased to be able to provide an opportunity for building the capacity of our volunteers and give them as many tips

of the trade as we can to help them become more successful."

Rachel Roberts, Solicitor, Kenny Spring Bathurst spoke about establishing governance practices and structure for not-for profit organisations and outlined the rights and responsibilities as incorporated legal entities.

John O'Malley, Director Intentus, Orange addressed the participants on financial accountability, cash handling, reconciliation, reporting and proactive operating practices.

Cowra Council Grants and Executive Projects Officer, Lawrance Ryan, made the trip over and gave a very interesting address on everything we needed to know about grant funding applications for community groups.

Lawrence's 10 Tips for writing and preparing grant submissions is now available Council's website as a handy reference.

Finally as a local case study, Randall Edwards who is Treasurer of the Millthorpe Village Committee gave an informative account of the strategies implemented in Millthorpe.

"It was pleasing to discover through hard work and working together to develop a united vision, the local business and community volunteers at Millthorpe have created a successful organisation that has achieved many of their goals and objectives," concluded Cr Ewin.

Information can be found at http://www.blayney.nsw.gov.au/news/hot-topics/free-community-foru.