The LBW Trust (Learning for a Better World) believes education is the pathway to a better future.
Located in the heart of outback Queensland, Cunnamulla is a small but resilient community, 750 km west of Brisbane. With a population of just over 1,200 people, access to educational and technological opportunities can be limited. Since 2021, The LBW Trust has proudly partnered with Cunnamulla Library, supporting programs that inspire learning, creativity and connection across all generations.
Through targeted grants, The LBW Trust has helped bridge the digital divide, foster community engagement and create pathways for future careers in technology and the arts. Each year, the impact has grown, from supporting school students to involving the entire town in hands-on learning experiences.
In 2021 Laying Foundations | Digital Learning and Photography
The partnership began in 2021 with a $1,200 grant to help Cunnamulla Library purchase a commercial-quality photo printer. This was a key addition to the Deadly Digital Communities skills training program, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentors guided Year 9 and 10 students in using technology.
The printer played a central role in the Glamour Photos Program, a student reward initiative based on good behaviour. Previously, students’ photos were printed on a standard office printer, but with this grant, the program could offer high-quality, professionally printed portraits. Additionally, the printer served the broader community, providing a much-needed service in a town where professional photo printing was unavailable.
The success of this initial investment demonstrated the power of technology in enhancing education and creating new opportunities in a remote setting.
In 2023 Expanding Impact | A Spring Fair for All
Building on the momentum of 2021, the focus in 2023 shifted to addressing the town’s social and educational needs. With some of the lowest early education levels in the country, Cunnamulla needed programs that engaged young learners in fun, skill-building activities.
To support this, The LBW Trust contributed $1,500 towards hosting a Kids’ Spring Fair, designed to bring the community together while promoting fine motor skills, concentration, and self-confidence. Featuring circus performers, including a juggler and a hula hoop artist, the event provided interactive experiences that helped develop both physical and cognitive abilities.
The fair was especially meaningful because Cunnamulla’s remote location limits access to live performances and cultural events. With additional support from Santos, the event became a celebration of learning, creativity, and community spirit, reinforcing the importance of educational initiatives in the region.
In 2024 Inspiring the Next Generation | Coding and Robotics
With a foundation of digital engagement and hands-on learning already in place, The LBW Trust’s 2024 grant of $1,500 supported an ambitious STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) initiative.
This year’s program introduced Coding and Robotics workshops, bringing cutting-edge technology to a community with limited exposure to such resources. Facilitated by The Brainary, the workshops included hands-on demonstrations with drones, JD Robots, and DigitMusic CMPSR technology. The excitement spanned all ages, with even a 93-year-old hospital patient, a former organ player, enthusiastically engaging with the DigitMusic CMPSR.
The impact extended beyond the workshops. Cunnamulla Library continued to integrate technology into daily activities, including a weekly iPad-powered bingo session at the local hospital. The program became so beloved that a local couple, recognising its value for the elderly, donated $100 towards prizes.
Looking Ahead | A Thriving Future for Cunnamulla
From digital literacy and photography to circus skills and robotics, The LBW Trust’s grants have helped Cunnamulla Library transform learning experiences for students, families, and elders alike. What started as a small initiative in 2021 has evolved into a multi-year journey of empowerment, with each new program building on the successes of the last.
Through continued collaboration, we look forward to supporting more innovative projects that break down barriers, connect generations, and open doors to brighter futures.
Would you like to help fund life-changing education programs like these? Learn more about The LBW Trust and how you can get involved today!
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Thank you,
The LBW Trust
