Net call to log on

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
A VOLUNTEER-run internet kiosk teaching pensioners how to use computers could be at the end of its cord if it doesn’t gain new members.
The non-profit group Warburton Online Incorporated has provided internet access to the Warburton community for almost 10 years.
But it needs more members to be eligible for future funding.
Warburton Online has also been able to provide free access to people with welfare and senior cards through the support from government grants.
David Reid, one of the last remaining volunteers, who is helping to keep the kiosk open at least two days a week, said it would be a shame to close the kiosk to those who could not afford to pay.
“Ninety five per cent of the computers are used for people under the PIAP (public internet access program) for free,” he said.
“We won’t have the possibility of future grants unless we have duly elected members for a committee.”
Funding for the PIAP, including the ability to pay for the internet connection and computer maintenance, finished at the end of the financial year.
Department of Community Development spokeswoman Carol Nichols said although the five-year PIAP program was finishing, grants would soon be available from the Community ICT Skills Grants Program. She said grants of up to $25,000 were available to help get more Victorians online and develop their skills and knowledge in using computers and the internet.
The 12 computers are also available for use for printing, as well as high quality gaming such as Counter Strike, Rise of Nations and Warcraft 3.
Meetings can be booked for groups that need access to computers as well.
Anybody interested in volunteering or being part of the committee can contact David Reid on 5966 9745.