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Funding Reinstatement News, May 2011
DMPA president Philippa Murray met Prime Minister Julia Gillard during her visit to the region where she confirmed the government's reinstatement of funding for the poetry competition. On a visit to Tamworth Public School, the Prime Minister said the awards were an important part of the government's education agenda and complemented the national curriculum. Students from the school wrote to the Prime Minister on learning funding for the awards had been pulled. Ms Gillard said their letters had been an important reminder and demonstration of democracy at work that had reversed the decision.
The federal government funding is for $150,000 spread across three years.
Funding Restored, February 2011
PRESS RELEASE - 25th February 2011
Following strong community support from many areas across Australia, the Minister for School Education, Early Childhood and Youth, Peter Garrett has informed the Independent Member for New England, Tony Windsor that he has approved funding of $50, 000 as a Commonwealth Government Contribution for the delivery of the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards over the next year, with the possibility of a further two years.
Mr Windsor is delighted with the news and recognises the efforts of so many students and supporters of the awards.
Government support for the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards is great news and I thank the Australian Government for recognising the Awards' value in such a way.
"The continuation of the funding has come about after a concerted effort by many community members both local and from across Australia - People Power!
"I would also like to thank the Prime Minister for receiving the cards, messages and poems from the Tamworth Public School and other school children in an active display of democracy.
"The children's participation in such a way has contributed to this successful outcome.
"The Awards have a very proud history and provide our young people with an opportunity to express themselves through poetry.
"The writing of poetry by our young people should be encouraged and when combined with a focus on our nation, it will help to instill a pride in our country just as Dorothea Mackellar did through her poetry.
"I encourage students of all ages and from across Australia to participate in the 2011 Awards and in future years.
"I further encourage schools to embrace the concept and ideals of the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards to ensure their future, " Mr Windsor said.