When Coolum’s Carla Ellingsen joined Heartbeats three years ago, she was one of only a small handful to participate in the regular drumming workshop.

Today, more than 60 individuals, many with intellectual and physical disabilities, crowd into the Uniting Church in Coolum for the colourful and loud musical therapy session.

Heartbeats is just one of a number of weekly workshops run by Coolum Hearts, a not for profit group providing essential therapy and support for a growing number of people living in the community.

Carla also attends weekly art classes and is a member of the choir group at Coolum Hearts, which is set to benefit from a much needed funding boost of nearly $7,000 through the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Ninderry MP Dan Purdie, who fancies himself as a bit of a drummer, was keen to join the group drumming up a storm today when he presented Coolum Hearts with a cheque for $6,979.20, which will fund much needed drumming and musical equipment, as well as other craft supplies.  

“Since being elected nearly 18 months ago, I have gotten to know the wonderful volunteers behind Coolum Hearts, who provide such a valuable support service for our local community,” Mr Purdie said.

From their annual Christmas day lunch for the less fortunate to their weekly program of activities and support services and local fundraising events, Dan said Barb and Clive Holden and their dedicated and passionate team of volunteers provide such a valuable support service.

“It’s great to see such a worthy organisation benefit from some additional funding, and I have no doubt it will be put to good use supporting those in the community who need it most.”

For more information about Coolum Hearts, visit their website at www.coolumhearts.com, on Facebook or phone 0478646330.