Residents of the severely drought-hit Marra Creek community, in NSW, have traditionally had to travel up to 250km to see a movie or drive 80km to the nearest hotel for social get-togethers.

The Marra Creek Public School Parents and Citizens Association decided things needed to change and set about creating an option for locals to enjoy pizza and a movie closer to home.

The school, located on the North West Plains, is one of the smallest in NSW, with a current enrolment of seven students, making it very isolated. Thanks to the ongoing and severe drought conditions in the area, the Marra Creek community has struggled with fundraising for workshops and events for local people.

P&C President Will Woolcock said the project aimed to combat isolation and bring the widespread district – which spans Bogan, Brewarrina and Warren – closer together to reconnect, strengthen community spirit, relax and enjoy a break.

“Between the lack of water and rain for crops, constantly feeding animals and financial difficulties, our community has had very little chance to get together,” he said. 

With the help of a $5,000 Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities Grant, their wish for a pizza oven and movie equipment for the school was been granted. The grant covered a media projector, outdoor screen, sound system, set top box and satellite dish as well as a pizza oven at the school. 

This means the community is now able to gather locally for social activities including film nights and watching major sporting events, although COVID-19 brought additional issues and delayed the launch event and initial planned activities.

Moree is a major agricultural centre in northern New South Wales, noted for its part in the Australian cotton-growing industry. Community workshops conducted by both Moree Secondary College and Moree Plains Shire Council during their strategic planning forums found public perception of the local high school at an all-time low. 

In YEAR, The newly-formed Moree Secondary College P&C Association has a committee of 12 parents, who work together to improve the facilities, equipment and uniforms for the 400 students at both the junior and senior campuses of Moree Secondary College (MSC). They developed a comprehensive communications plan designed to turn the negative perceptions around and to convey a more positive image of the school. Their aim was to showcase Moree Secondary College as an option for a quality local education, and improve the community’s relationship with the school to ultimately increase enrolments and keep more families in Moree.

A $5,000 Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grant, funded by the Monsanto Fund, helped to implement the communication plan, funding a multi-pronged campaign designed to change perceptions and raise awareness of the great things about the school, to improve engagement with the school. The campaign included a promotional video, student and teacher profiles, print and web media publications, and community engagement events. Moree Plains Council committed $3,000 to the project, and the College also contributed funding.

The P&C engaged a freelance journalist to write student and teacher profiles that were posted onto social media, as well as media releases covering various school events and articles to celebrate success in arts, sports and academic excellence.

An event was organised to launch the new video. Attended by the Executive Director and Regional Director of Education, Local Members of Parliament, Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor and more than 100 community members, the MSC P&C was able to showcase the achievements of past students. Four shorter videos were also developed to showcase Drama, Hospitality, Woodwork and Metalwork capabilities and achievements at the school.

In reporting on the project, MSC’s P&C representative Kelly James said that the 2019 year 7 and 10 intakes were at record levels.  “It’s hard to know what direct benefit our promotional campaign has had on student numbers, but we believe it has had some positive impact. “The student profiles we’ve shared on social media have been excellent, with many comments often added to a post, which reinforces the dedication of the MSC teachers, the resources available and quality students graduating from Moree Secondary College.”

North Star Sporting Club plays a critical role providing recreation facilities in the local community, and it’s equally important that the right first aid equipment is on hand.

It’s why the club was nominated by a local farmer for an Australian Cotton Farmers Grow Communities (ACFGC) grant valued at $5000 and sponsored by Bayer Crop Science through the Bayer Fund. This has enabled them to purchase a defibrillator and three comprehensive first aid kits.

North Star Sporting Club President Jeffrey Nixon, who runs the property ‘Merwood’ in the district, says the club has a tennis court, runs horse events, and also hosts the North Star Trail Ride, which at one point was the biggest non-competitive dirt bike event in Australia.

“Obviously, safety’s an issue, and over the years we’ve had Westpac and RACQ helicopters in about 15 times, and that’s part of the back story of the grant application,” Jeffrey says.

“A local resident had a heart attack here in 2014 and three people did CPR until they were able to get a local St Johns Ambulance defibrillator in operation, and then the RACQ helicopter was diverted to North Star with an emergency doctor on and we were able to save his life.”

The situation sowed the seed for having a dedicated defibrillator and three substantial first aid kits at the club, with local cotton grower Naomi Mulligan successfully nominating the organisation for an Australian Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grant.

The need for the equipment was again sadly highlighted by the passing of a person at the club grounds just prior to the grant application being submitted.

“It’s very sad, and you think, if we’d have had the defibrillator here, we might’ve been able to make that a different story, but at the time we didn’t have it,” Jeffrey says.

“While COVID-19 has delayed the installation of the equipment and the associated training that needs to take place, the plans are set.

“We want the defibrillator to be accessible, so it will be on the outside of the club building in a safety box, which requires glass to be broken, and then it can be opened.”

With people coming from all over Australia, and even around the world, for events at the North Star Sporting Club, Jeffrey says they need to have the right safety equipment in place, and the ACFGC grant has played a critical role in achieving this.

“When something happens like when John had his heart attack here at the trail ride in 2014, all of a sudden you need this one piece of equipment, which is a life saver,” he explains.

“When we invite people to an event at North Star, we need to be able to give them confidence that we do our best to have first aid equipment onsite.

“We don’t want to have to be waiting for the ambulance to turn up. We want to be able to get in and get something done.”

Aside from the safety aspect, Jeffrey stresses the financial challenge is always present for small community clubs, and grants like the ACFGC program are key.

“We’ve got our power bill, our water bill, everything else to pay for, and that’s not given, we’ve got to earn enough money to do all those things, and when someone like Bayer and FRRR come along, and we can get some of those very important items onsite at the club, it makes a huge difference,” he says.

“It’s not like in the city where you’re only five minutes from the ambulance station. Out here, if you need a helicopter, it’s two hours away at the minimum.

“We’re very appreciative for the grant, that’s for sure, it makes our job a bit easier.”

The Thallon Progress Association (TPA) has operated for more than 50 years. It was incorporated in 1995, and is run by a Committee of five with 20 volunteers. The TPA works closely with other local groups and has achieved many significant projects for Thallon in the last five years. In 2015, TPA began building the town’s first war memorial, and since then, the community has embraced the ANZAC Day tradition, with more than 100 people attending the dawn service each year.

It has been a whole of community effort to establish the Cenotaph in the town park and complete subsequent stages, which included WW1 and WW2 Honour Rolls, WW1 and WW2 Commemorative Pavers and also Commemorative Booklets and a WW2 Photographic Exhibition (which is now permanently displayed in the Town Library). Up-lighting of the memorial and a new flagpole have also been installed.

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A $5,000 grant from the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program, supported by the Monsanto Fund (now Bayer Fund), enabled the TPA to embark on another stage of the project to bring them closer to completing this special memorial that will ensure those who served from the Thallon district will never be forgotten.

They used the funds to pave around the war memorial to create a safe, level surface that allows all members of the Thallon community to safely participate in the annual ANZAC Day service. The paving has also created an attractive centre piece for future landscaping to occur.

While the design of the project remained the same, the planned timeline for laying the pavers blew out, as the volunteer workforce had to prioritise working on-farm, due to the drought. Instead, Ben Thallon, a professional landscaper (and one of the descendants of JF Thallon – the town’s namesake) travelled all the way from Brisbane to lend his expertise to the project. With help from a dedicated group of community volunteers it has been completed to a very high standard, ensuring safe and easy access to the memorial area..

Future stages of the Memorial will also commemorate later wars and conflicts, with plantings to complete the landscaping.

Cotton growers urged to nominate NFPs for $150,000 in grants

1 July 2020: Australian cotton growers can again nominate local not-for-profit and community organisations to receive $150,000 in grants for projects to benefit the communities in which they live and work.

The Crop Science division of Bayer, in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), is continuing the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities (ACFGC) program in 2020, with Bayer renewing its commitment to supporting the cotton industry and Australia’s cotton-growing communities through the distribution of 30 grants of $5,000.

The ACFGC grant program has awarded $900,000 in grants to more than 150 local community projects over the last six years. The program has funded vital community projects that have addressed rural mental health, early, primary and secondary education, the arts, infrastructure, nursing and healthcare, food, disability and emergency services.

Bayer marketing lead Kate Connors said the ACFGC program strengthens community resilience and positively impacts the wellbeing of cotton-growing communities across Australia.

“In 2019, we funded projects from a wide range of areas with funding going to artistic workshops, picnic areas, school gardens and community shows. It’s great to see cotton growers giving back and doing their bit to strengthen the local communities especially with the challenges the last season posed for the industry,” Ms Connors said.

“We are again fortunate to work alongside our longstanding partner FRRR to support 30 projects that will provide real and lasting effects for communities in cotton growing areas. With the recent bushfires and ongoing drought continuing to put a strain on these rural towns and businesses, it is more important than ever to ensure not-for-profit and community organisations are supported.

“We invite anyone with a project they think could benefit their community to get on board and nominate. It’s all about strengthening community spirit, addressing a need for more services, supporting volunteers and fostering vibrant Australian cotton growing communities.”

FRRR’s State Programs Manager, Michelle Murphy-O’Kane said that it is important to keep funds flowing into these cotton-growing communities.

“Given the cumulative impacts of the drought, fires and now COVID-19, local groups are finding it particularly hard to raise the funds they need. It’s wonderful to be able to partner with Bayer Fund to offer these grants, which can have significant impact, and often be leveraged to attract additional funding.

“Grants like these are so important, especially in helping volunteer-run organisations address the priorities and needs of their communities. Each place will be different, and needs will vary – for some it’s upgrading community infrastructure, for others it’s offering educational programs for children, or providing access to health and well-being services,” Ms Murphy-O’Kane explained.

One of the recipients of the grants in 2019 was the Pittsworth Men’s Shed. President, Merv Hinneberg said they were pleased to receive the grant and put it to good use.

“We used the grant for a computer system with a printer and scanner. We plan to use it as a learning tool, showing people how they can improve their skills on the computer. It will be a valuable asset to us,” said Mr Hinneberg.

Nominations for the 2020 grants round will be accepted online or by mail between 1 July 2020 and 31 August 2020. For more information please visit aussiecottonfarmers.com.au. Successful recipients will be announced in November 2020.

Content warning: this article deals with sensitive themes including domestic violence that might be disturbing for some audiences.

The St George branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) was established in 1946 and sixteen active members work to support the community and participate in and host a range of local events.

The members embarked on an ambitious project – upgrading a small disused unit attached to their meeting room to become a low cost, short-term accommodation unit which could be used for a variety of purposes. This includes supporting victims of domestic violence, providing a place to stay for isolated parents or families of locally hospitalised children, or for families coming into town for the likes of parent / teacher interviews. While they were fundraising locally, a local cotton grower realised they could do with more support to fund the renovations and furnishings, as the unit was empty and had fallen into disrepair.

The grower nominated them, and the received an Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grant for $5,000. This enabled them to start refurbishment of the unit to convert it into a safe haven for those in need.

Paula Hetherington, President of the St George QCWA, said that it was a steep learning curve for their small group to achieve a project of this magnitude with a miniscule bank account. “Before commencing the project, we knew there was considerable funding required to achieve the outcome of having an affordable, comfortable, self-contained unit for residents of the Balonne Shire.

“The largest cost item was building renovations, which we knew when the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grants were open. Getting the grant enabled us to provide some much needed comfort items, such as air conditioning and window blinds for our hot summer days, comfortable bedding and a table to sit at for meals.”

The QCWA St George Branch has since been raising funds for linen, utensils, crockery, cutlery et cetera through catering for local events, and have successfully raised the necessary funds to finish the broader refit project. The renovations were completed in February, and the unit is now ready to be used for its intended purpose.

Bendigo, 21 November 2019: Schools, show societies, and a family support service are among the 30 not-for-profit organisations in New South Wales and Queensland cotton-growing communities to receive a $5,000 boost from the Bayer Fund this year as part of the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program.

Today’s announcement coincides with National Agriculture Day. This year marks the sixth round of the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program, which is delivered in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and takes the total investment into cotton communities to $900,000.

A local cotton grower nominated each of the not-for-profits that are receiving funds, which will help strengthen community resilience and positively impact on the wellbeing of cotton-growing communities. The majority of grant funding will be used to invest in infrastructure and equipment, and 23 percent of funds are being used to provide activities and services.

“There are many challenges associated with the drought for people living in rural Australia at the moment, and so there was a strong focus on developing organisational resilience, as was supporting lifelong learning, education and training,” said FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton.

“FRRR ran a series of grantseeker workshops in these cotton-growing areas, and the increased demand on not-for-profits for both short and long-term support was a talking point. Additionally, organisations providing direct support to farmers and their families discussed the heavy reliance on volunteers and the impact on those individuals who were giving support to others, while experiencing the effects of the drought first-hand.

“These grants will not only boost morale in the short-term but also create a lasting impact, as FRRR’s research shows that communities typically leverage a grant three times over.”

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the grants will provide a much-needed boost to cotton communities.

“We are proud of the contribution our industry makes to the communities in which we operate. It is during times like these, where drought is biting, that the strength of our industry in supporting these communities comes to the fore. I congratulate the recipients of this year’s grants and look forward to seeing what is accomplished.”

Bayer Fund representative in Australia, Carissa Buckland, said that this year’s nominations illustrated that there is strong community spirit within the cotton areas.

“Many of the projects being funded are all about bringing people together – for artistic workshops, picnic areas, school gardens and community shows. It’s great to see cotton growers giving back and doing their bit to strengthen their local community.”

The full list of recipients can be found below.

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
Darling River Food & Fibre (Bourke), NSW
Bourke Arts Community Inc	Develop organisational resilience and capacity through the purchase of studio equipment and materials to make glazes.	Bourke	$5,000
Gwydir Valley, NSW
St Philomenas Catholic School Moree P & F	Provide access to quality learning environments and experiences through the construction of an all-weather shade area.	Moree	$5,000
Moree Water Ski Club Inc	Build community resilience and maintain recreational assets through the construction of a shade shelter.	Bellata	$5,000
Moree Show Society Inc	Strengthen community wellbeing and identity through the delivery of the Moree Show.	Moree	$5,000
Lower Namoi, NSW
Wee Waa Sports Inc	Enhance community identity through an upgrade of galleries and blades over windows.	Wee Waa	$5,000
Wee Waa Fishing Club	Supporting community engagement through the upgrade of a well-used picnic area	Wee Waa	$5,000
St Joseph’s Catholic School Wee Waa Parents & Friends Association	Improve education outcomes through the establishment of a garden area for students.	Wee Waa	$5,000
Macquarie, NSW
Marra Creek Public School Parents and Citizens Association	Increase engagement in learning through the purchase of media infrastructure and a pizza oven.	Nyngan	$5,000
Narromine Agricultural Show Inc	Develop community engagement through the purchase of portable sound equipment and two shade marquees.	Narromine	$5,000
Southern Valleys, NSW
Wirrinya Aquatic Club Inc	Enhance community sense of place through the upgrade of an outdoor area.	Wirrinya	$5,000
St Marys Catholic Primary Hay Parents and Friends Association	Foster school engagement and improve education outcomes by developing an outdoor learning space.	Hay	$5,000
Lake Cargelligo Central School	Provide access to quality learning environments through the purchase of portable agricultural equipment.	Lake Cargelligo	$5,000
Goolgowi Parents and Citizens Association	Increase engagement in education experiences through the establishment of a garden as part of an environmental education program.	Goolgowi	$5,000
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Hillston Parents & Friends Association	Develop community resilience through the upgrade of a canteen area.	Hillston	$5,000
Upper Namoi, NSW
Gunnedah South School P&C Association	Strengthen community participation through the upgrade of an outdoor area.	Gunnedah	$5,000
Gunnedah Family Support	Develop individual and community capacity and social wellbeing through the delivery of a men’s support program.	Gunnedah	$5,000
Gunnedah Family and Children’s Services Inc	Provide a safe and secure start in life for children through the replacement of a soft-fall area around play equipment.	Gunnedah	$5,000
The Boggabri Tractor Shed Inc	Enhance organisational resilience and capacity through the uprade of a kitchen.	Boggabri	$5,000
Walgett, NSW
Walgett Little Athletics Centre	Develop a more engaged, participative community through the upgrade of kitchen equipment.	Walgett	$5,000
Central Highlands, QLD
Rotary Club of Emerald Inc	Provide access to quality learning environments through the development of an all-abilities playground.	Emerald	$5,000
Emerald Branch Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association	Build stronger individual and/or community resilience through furnishing a youth space within a welfare centre.	Emerald	$5,000
Darling Downs, QLD
Toowoomba and District Down Syndrome Support Group Inc	Promote inclusive community engagement through the provision of an annual family workshop and camp.	Toowoomba	$5,000
Pittsworth and District Men’s Shed Inc	Develop a more engaged, participative community through the purchase of information technology.	Pittsworth	$5,000
Meandarra Primary P&C Association	Strengthen community participation through the installation of a concrete path and seating.	Meandarra	$5,000
Jandowae Kindergarten Assoc Inc	Provide access to inclusive learning environments through the upgrade of a playground cubby.	Jandowae	$5,000
Brookstead Community Hall Association Inc	Providing access to community activities through the installation of a solar powered system.	Brookstead	$5,000
Dawson Valley, QLD
Theodore Early Childhood Centre Association Inc	Support early childhood development through the provision of a shade area and the purchase of an outdoor play set.	Theodore	$5,000
Dirranbandi, QLD
Dirranbandi Swim Club Dirranbandi Courts Sports Association Inc	Strengthen community participation and water safety through the purchase of swimming and pool equipment and barbeque to host a community event.	Dirranbandi	$5,000
Macintyre Valley, QLD
Talwood State School P&C	Increase engagement in learning and improve education outcomes through the purchase of an irrigation system to compliment an orchard project.	Talwood	$5,000
North Star Sporting Club Ltd	Promote community safety and resilience through the purchase of a defibrillator and three comprehensive First Aid kits.	North Star	$5,000

Bendigo, 21 November 2018: As part of the National Agriculture Day celebrations, Bayer today celebrated the hardworking Australian cotton growers who have secured $750,000 for their local communities over the past five years through the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities (ACFGC) grants program sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, a philanthropic arm of Bayer.

The ACFGC program was initiated in 2013 by the Monsanto Fund in partnership with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) to support local communities in Australian cotton-growing areas with 30 $5000 grants each year.

Rural education is a strong feature of this year’s 30 grant recipients with around half of the approved ACFGC projects going towards much-needed facilities in rural schools, preschools and daycare centres. The remainder of the $5000 grants will be for a diverse mixture of worthy community projects, including enhancing children’s health and infrastructure funding for show societies and community halls.

“Now in its fifth year, the lasting positive impact of these grants is clearer than ever,” said Natalie Egleton, Chief Executive of FRRR.

“This year, especially with the drought continuing to put a strain on rural communities, the groups that are receiving grants will be able to address a lack of services, undertake projects to strengthen community resilience, support volunteers or improve fatigued and run-down facilities and services.

“Often what might appear to be a small thing, such as supporting a local town show or upgrading a community hall, has a significant flow-on effect on the community’s wellbeing. So we are delighted to again partner with the Monsanto Fund to ensure this funding reaches these local initiatives and helps to create vibrant communities.”

Cotton Australia CEO, Adam Kay, said the grants program strengthens cotton growing communities.

“In recent years, the Australian Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grants program has seen positive and meaningful outcomes achieved in our cotton communities,” Adam said.

“This program has been instrumental in helping our cotton towns thrive, which is something everyone in the community benefits from.

“This latest round of 30 grants will undoubtedly build on the success we’ve already seen, and we congratulate the recipients.”

Monsanto Fund Representative in Australia and Bayer’s Corporate Engagement Lead, Carissa Buckland, said that the ACFGC grant program works by acknowledging that people living and working in rural and regional communities are best-placed to determine the groups and projects that most need support.

“For this reason, the program gives cotton farmers the opportunity to nominate a deserving not-for-profit group to receive one of the grants,” Carissa said.

“As such, we would like to thank all the cotton growers who nominated community projects — their support for the program ensures its success.“

Carissa said that because the funded programs are awarded based on their long-term benefits, the grants lead to ongoing positive impact for rural communities.

“The funding provided by the ACFGC program is often a catalyst for further financial or in-kind support and as such, the grants over the past five years have led to an estimated $1.8 million worth of community building activity for more than 100 regional organisations.

“Congratulations to this year’s recipients. Once again, we’ve been hugely impressed and inspired by their dedication to providing quality and much-needed community services.”

Organisation & Project Summary	Town	Amount Awarded
New South Wales
Boomi Amateur Thespian Society Increase fundraising capacity and enhance production quality at the Boomi Amateur Thespian Society via the purchase of new sound equipment.	Boomi	$5,000
Croppa Creek Bowling Club Ltd Improve conditions and longevity of a much needed community asset by repairing the roof.	Croppa Creek	$5,000
Moree Secondary College P&C Enhance cross community engagement through the delivery of a celebratory campaign.	Moree	$5,000
Narrabri Preschool Association Inc. Enhance the preschool’s educational and collaboration opportunities through the installation of an automatic sprinkler system.	Narrabri	$5,000
Wee Waa & District Preschool Assoc. Inc. Enable the delivery of a healthy, varied menu at the Wee Waa & District Preschool through the modernisation of its kitchen facilities.	Wee Waa	$5,000
Wee Waa High School P&C Committee Improve the educational opportunities of students at the Wee Waa High School through the upgrade of its agricultural teaching facilities.	Wee Waa	$5,000
Lions Club Trangie Increase the usability of the Trangie Pavilion by installing newly donated air conditioning units.	Trangie	$5,000
Nevertire Hall Trust Increase community pride and attractiveness of the main community facility by painting the exterior and interior of the Nevertire Hall.	Nevertire	$5,000
The Trustee for the Warren Youth Foundation Enhance employment skills of youth through the purchase of a tractor to complement the agricultural training program.	Warren	$5,000
Mungindi Community Preschool Inc. Enhance the educational facilities of the Mungindi Community Preschool by purchasing and installing an air conditioner in the main teaching room.	Mungindi	$5,000
Binya Hall Trust Inc Increase visitation to Binya and a sense of community pride by painting the Graincorp Silo.	Binya	$5,000
Coleambally Playgroup Improve the capacity of the Coleambally Playgroup to provide quality early childhood education services by purchasing play equipment and establishing a new pop up playgroup in Darlington Point.	Coleambally	$5,000
Leeton Community Op Shop Provide nutritious food to those in need and work experience to youth through the extension of the Teahouse at the Leeton Community Op Shop.	Leeton	$5,000
Yenda Preschool Kindergarten Inc. Enhance the play area of the Yenda Preschool Kindergarten by including a bike track and vegetable garden with edible plants.	Yenda	$5,000
Curlewis Public School P&C Assoc. Provide a sun-safe area to the children of Curlewis Public School by constructing a shade sail over the play area.	Curlewis	$5,000
Emerald Hill Hall Committee (Emerald Hill Progress Association Inc.) Increase the usability of the Emerald Hill Hall by purchasing a 25 KVA transformer.	Emerald Hill	$5,000
Gunnedah Preschool Kindergarten Association Inc. Enhance access to preschool for children through the purchase of a 12-seater bus.	Gunnedah	$5,000
Walgett Preschool and Long Day Care Centre Incorporated (t/as Coolibah Kids) Enhance the educational abilities of the Walgett Preschool and Long Day Care Centre through the purchase of materials to install sustainable, drought proof garden beds, a worm farm, compost system and a bike track.	Walgett	$5,000
Queensland
Bushkids (Royal Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme) Increase access of remote children to allied health services through the purchase of equipment to establish tele-health hubs at Dingo, Springsure, Dysart, Clermont and Gemfield.	Emerald	$5,000
Emerald State High School P&C Assn Enhance the educational capabilities of the Emerald State High School by installing a garden, and establishing an environmental and landscaping group within the school.	Emerald	$5,000
Back Plains State School P&C Increase the fundraising capacity of the Back Plains State School P&C through the purchase of catering equipment.	Back Plains	$5,000
Broxburn Music Club of Pittsworth Incorporated Increase the usability of the Broxburn Music Club of Pittsworth’s catering shed through its re-plumbing and the purchase of a rainwater storage tank.	Pittsworth	$5,000
Pittsworth Kindergarten Association Inc Increase educational and social experiences of children at the Pittsworth Kindergarten through the upgrade of its playground.	Pittsworth	$5,000
Zonta Club of Dalby Enhance the comfort of friends and family who are visiting loved ones undergoing medical care at the hospital by purchasing two sofa chairs for the palliative care rooms.	Dalby	$5,000
Moura Fish Stocking Group Inc Enhance the River Park, a much used local facility, through the purchase of solar lighting, upgrades to the water system and the erection of a small shelter for a picnic table.	Moura	$5,000
The Dirranbandi Daycare Steering Committee (Dirranbandi Progress Association) Increase economic prospects of families by creating architectural plans to support a feasibility study for the establishment of a childcare facility in Dirranbandi.	Dirranbandi	$5,000
Goondiwindi Pastoral & Agricultural Society Increase the capacity of the Aspects Art Show through the provision of new plinths for the display of 3D art works.	Goondiwindi	$5,000
Texas Show Society Improve health and wellbeing at the Texas Show Grounds through the purchase and installation of a shade structure.	Texas	$5,000
Queensland Country Women’s Association – St George Branch Provide support for residents experiencing domestic violence or parents of children in the local hospital by beginning the refurbishment of refuge accommodation.	St George	$5,000
Thallon Progress Association Inc. Increase the safety of those visiting the Thallon War Memorial by paving the surrounding area.	Thallon	$5,000

$600,000 distributed to more than 100 community groups over four years

30 not-for-profit and community organisations across cotton growing regions will benefit from a $5,000 grant just before the festive season, awarded under the 2017 Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grants program. The program is delivered in partnership by the Monsanto Fund and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal and has now distributed $600,000 to New South Wales and Queensland cotton communities in the past four years. Bendigo, 5 December 2017: Rural schools, men’s sheds, Country Women’s Associations and community halls are among the 30 not-for-profit organisations in cotton growing communities to receive a $5000 boost from the Monsanto Fund this year.

“After four years, the positive effect that these grants have on recipient communities is becoming even more apparent,” said Natalie Egleton, Chief Executive of FRRR.

“With these grants, local community groups are able to address ongoing challenges and deliver lasting benefits in their communities. Often the funding is a catalyst for further investment, with grants typically leveraged at least three times over with additional financial or in-kind support.

“Sometimes they may seem like simple things, but new transport equipment for the Meals on Wheels Service or upgrading disabled access to a community hall has far-reaching impacts. With increasing pressures on rural communities making it harder to raise funds locally, we are delighted to be able to provide support for the wonderful work that many local leaders do, to build strong, vibrant and sustainable communities.”

Cotton Australia Chief Executive, Adam Kay, said the organisation was encouraged to see another 30 diverse projects awarded grants for the betterment of cotton-growing communities.

“In recent years these grants have played an important role, either as seed funding to enable organisations to get projects off the ground, or as the deciding factor in an existing project’s successful completion.

“We congratulate all of this years’ recipients and look forward to seeing what is accomplished in the coming year,” Adam said.

Monsanto Fund Representative in Australia, Jessica Douglas said that it was clear from the nominations received that there are many dedicated people within cotton areas committed to providing quality and much needed community services.

“Monsanto is proud of the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program and the ongoing, positive impact of the grants over the past four years is noteworthy. This year we saw many community support programs being nominated, providing the opportunity to fund a range of projects that focus on mental health, disability care and education. It is important that the projects articulate long term benefits, in this way we can ensure that each individual grant has an enduring impact.”

“Monsanto would like to thank all the cotton growers who nominated community projects – your support for the program ensures its success. The stories that have emerged over the past four years are astonishing. With such a wide mandate the grant program is able to offer support to many people. Congratulations to this year’s recipients,” Jessica said.

Here is the full list of grant recipients:

Organisation & Project Summary	Town	Grant
QUEENSLAND
1	Clermont Kindergarten and Day Care Centre Enhance the quality of the educational environment through the purchase of learning and technology resources.	Clermont	$5,000
2	Emerald North Primary P&C Assoc Improve the capacity for early intervention for children with disabilities through the purchase of specialised classroom furniture and sensory equipment.	Emerald	$5,000
3	Brookstead State School P&C Assoc Improve food safety through a safe, clean, vermin-proof food preparation area via the installation of splashback, security doors and storage cupboards.	Brookstead	$5,000
4	Dalby Crisis Support Assoc Inc Increase support to homeless people and vulnerable families by purchasing furniture and household items, food, personal items and children’s play equipment and toys for crisis accommodation facility.	Dalby	$5,000
5	Dalby Men’s Shed Inc Expand the Shed’s capacity to undertake community projects and run workshops through the addition of a drum sander, welder, thicknesser and cordless power tools.	Dalby	$5,000
6	Dalby Primary P&C Assoc Provide an area for school students to eat, socialise and undertake outdoor activities by replacing outdoor seats.	Dalby	$5,000
7	Callide Valley Men’s Shed Enable people with disability or mobility issues to partake in activities at the Men’s Shed via the installation of a disability-friendly shower and toilet.	Biloela	$5,000
8	Dirranbandi Pastoral & Agricultural Assoc Inc Increase leadership and skills development for young people by providing support to attend the Queensland Agricultural Show Next Generation Conference.	Dirranbandi	$5,000
9	Bonshaw P&C Assoc Enable families to learn healthy food choices and provide activities for youth through the purchase of a new cooking facility and upgrading the school’s outdoor facilities.	Bonshaw	$5,000
10	Bungunya State School Facilitate literacy development through the purchase of new books and the installation of a digital scanning system.	Bungunya	$5,000
11	St George Meals on Wheels Improve the sustainability and delivery of Meals on Wheels by purchasing new Eskys, a car fridge and kitchen items.	St George	$5,000
12	St George Swimming Club Inc Reduce risk of rural drownings through the purchase of flippers and kick boards for a swim education program.	St George	$5,000
NEW SOUTH WALES
13	Country Women’s Assoc of NSW – Bourke Branch Increase the CWA’s capacity to support local events with catering, and ensuring their kitchen meets current health standards, by purchasing kitchen items.	Bourke	$5,000
14	Mallawa Amateur Picnic Race Club Inc Enhance all-weather capacity for a range of community engagement opportunities through the building of a veranda around the shed.	Mallawa	$5,000
15	Bellata Tennis Club for the Bellata Mobile Preschool Provide safe food storage and enable minor food preparation for the Preschool via upgrades in the Tennis Club’s kitchen.	Bellata	$5,000
16	Narrabri Arts Eisteddfod Inc Provide strengthened culture and art engagement through choral, piano, brass and woodwind workshops and group music tuition for the whole community.	Narrabri	$5,000
17	Nurruby Wee Waa OOSH (Nurruby Children’s Services Inc) Enhance children’s activities, comfort and development via the purchase of furniture, art supplies, play equipment and a lockable shed.	Wee Waa	$5,000
18	Wee Waa & District Historical Assoc Inc Strengthen cultural pride and knowledge and increase economic activity via the creation of a life-sized Aboriginal campsite diorama for display at the historical museum.	Wee Waa	$5,000
19	St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Warren Parents & Friends Assoc Reduce sun exposure and enhance students’ outdoor experiences through the installation of a steel shade structure over the new school playground.	Warren	$5,000
20	Trangie Action Group Inc Increase economic growth and promote town pride by erecting signs at the four entrances of Trangie.	Trangie	$5,000
21	Warren Rotary Club Enhance residents’ health and wellbeing via the extension of a sun room at the local aged care room in the hospital.	Warren	$5,000
22	Mungindi Junior Rugby League Club Inc Increase community group capacity to operate community and fundraising events via the purchase of shade tents, tables and chairs and a PA speaker.	Mungindi	$5,000
23	Coleambally Preschool Assoc Inc Provide enhanced support to children with developmental challenges through the purchase of specialised play and learning equipment.	Coleambally	$5,000
24	Griffith-Leeton Centre Riding for the Disabled Improve inclusion, participation and skill development of children with disabilities through the purchase of a special saddle designed for wheelchair-bound riders and ball reins.	Yenda	$5,000
25	Hillston Creative Arts Council Inc Ensure safety and enhance the gallery and tourist information facility through repairs to the flooring, toilets and gutters and repainting.	Hillston	$5,000
26	Leeton Community Care Development Inc Increase training opportunities for the unemployed via the purchase of a stainless steel benchtop and commercial coffee machine.	Leeton	$5,000
27	Quirindi Chamber of Commerce Industry & Tourism Inc Facilitate community cohesion and stimulate the local economy by supporting the staging of the Quirindi Christmas Street Carnival.	Quirindi	$5,000
28	Quirindi Preschool Kindergarten Inc Provide a tangible example of recycling and enhance children’s outdoor activities through the purchase of durable outdoor seating made from plastic bags.	Quirindi	$5,000
29	Burren Junction Parents & Citizens Assoc Inc Foster education engagement and support different student needs and learning styles through the provision of Individual Study Zones within classrooms.	Burren Junction	$5,000
30	Burren Junction Memorial School of Arts Hall Committee Strengthen cultural vibrancy and access quality performance space via the installation of stage lighting at the hall.	Burren Junction	$5,000

$450,000 distributed to 90 community groups over three years 

13 December, 2016: A further 30 not-for-profit and community organisations across cotton growing regions will benefit from a $5,000 boost just before the festive season, as the 2016 Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grants are awarded again. $450,000 has now been distributed over the last three years across New South Wales and Queensland.

For three consecutive years, cotton farmers have nominated local not-for-profit or community organisations they think deserve one of the 30 grants on offer. Since it was first launched in 2014, the program, offered by the Monsanto Fund in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has benefited over 250,000 people directly and indirectly, by funding a diverse range of community-oriented projects.

“After three years, the true impact of these grants on our recipient communities is becoming more obvious,” Natalie Egleton, Chief Executive of the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) said.

“The nature of the projects funded offer sustained and wide-reaching benefits to the recipient communities,” Ms Egleton said.

“In 2015 alone, 150,000 people benefited from the projects supported by these grants, including over 6,000 farmers and 40,000 low-income individuals.  This year, we expect a further 268,000 to benefit as well.

“There is wide evidence to suggest that strong social capital enables communities to better withstand challenges including natural disasters, interruptions to local economies, and climate variables.

“Many of the projects funded through the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program – such as the upgrading of local community facilities, health services, education programs, community gardens and improvements to community engagement resources – reinforce this,” Natalie said.

Cotton Australia Chief Executive, Adam Kay, said it was fantastic to see another 30 diverse projects awarded grants, giving cotton growing communities an important boost just prior to Christmas.

“Over the last three years, we’ve seen the impact of these grants on the recipients themselves and their communities. In some cases, the grants have acted as seed funding, enabling organisations to get projects off the ground, or they’ve been the missing piece between a project going ahead or not.

“Going into the festive season, this year’s recipients can be confident they’ll be able to continue their good work into the new year, which is a real boost. We congratulate all of this years’ recipients and look forward to seeing what is accomplished this year,” Adam said.

Monsanto Fund Representative in Australia, Helen Maccan, said it is the cumulative impact of the grants over the last three years that tells the most compelling story about how they’re benefiting the community.

“Education and infrastructure projects have been prioritised by nominating farmers, suggesting that these communities have a great need for funds to support projects that will be enduring in the community.

“What this program has achieved over the last three years is quite remarkable with large populations benefiting. Congratulations to this year’s recipients,” Helen said.

Organisation and Project Summary	Town	Grant
QUEENSLAND
1	Biddeston Primary P&C Association Purchase of an electronic whiteboard and projector, building engagement of students with educational technology and enhancing educational outcomes.	Biddeston	$5,000
2	Blush Cancer Care Inc Purchase of five iPads, preloaded with wellness, health and breast cancer recovery information, providing breast cancer patients with an invaluable resource during their chemotherapy treatment.	Toowoomba	$5,000
3	Borilla Community Kindergarten Association Inc Construction of a solid shade structure over swings and a purchase of a water tank, encouraging sun safety and waterwise habits amongst young people.	Emerald	$5,000
4	C&K Dirranbandi Community Kindergarten Culturally appropriate resources, promotional events and training for educators and the community, providing greater access and awareness to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community about the benefits of early education programs.	Dirranbandi	$5,000
5	Care Goondiwindi Association Installation of a vehicle access lift in the community bus, enabling residents who use mobility aids to attend community programs and medical appointments with ease.	Goondiwindi	$5,000
6	Comet School of the Arts Installation of signage along a historical walking trail, building a sense of pride for locals and visitors alike.	Comet	$5,000
7	Dalby Day Nursery & Pre School Association Inc Upgrade of children’s toilet and bathroom amenities, increasing hygiene and functionality and bringing the space up to regulatory standard.	Dalby	$5,000
8	Dirranbandi P-10 State School Development of a sustainable locally based Agriculture Program, providing students with an in-depth knowledge of the industry followed by potential vocational and employment possibilities.	Dirranbandi	$5,000
9	Jimbour State School P&C Association Purchase and installation of a watering system and shade for the school’s vegetable garden and vegetable coop, building students’ understandings of healthy lifestyles and connecting with the curriculum.	Jimbour	$5,000
10	Lions Club of Cecil Plains Inc Establishment of an outdoor gymnasium in Henry Stuart Russell Park, building health and fitness across the Cecil Plains Community.	Cecil Plains	$5,000
11	Rotary Club of Biloela Purchase of a custom built trailer to permanently store and transport catering equipment, enabling Rotary to attend more fundraising events and secure volunteer safety.	Biloela	$5,000
12	St George Tennis Club The replacement of a tennis ball machine and the provision of scholarships, enabling the continuation of the Hot Shots Program for young people, developing motor skills, physical agility and increasing engagement in Indigenous students.	St George	$5,000
13	Toowoomba & District Down Syndrome Support Group Inc Support for an annual family camp, promoting education, resilience and self-esteem amongst people with Down Syndrome and their families.	Toowoomba	$5,000
NEW SOUTH WALES
14	Anglicare Northern Inland Diocese of Armidale Development of a specialised service program, assisting teen mothers and their support circle to develop a healthy family environment, improve school retention, teen’s self-esteem and future aspirations.	Tamworth	$5,000
15	Baan Baa Community Hall Inc Repairing the hall’s ceiling and internal paintwork, increasing the aesthetics, function and use of the hall.	Baan Baa	$5,000
16	Bellata War Memorial Hall Committee Inc Purchase and installation of evaporative air cooler, increasing the viability of the hall and building general community wellbeing during extreme summer months.	Bellata	$5,000
17	Boomi Amateur Thespian Society Installation of a roof and storage container to safely and securely house performance costumes, props and sets, providing artistic opportunities for the community.	Boomi	$5,000
18	Bourke & District Children’s Services Creation of an outdoor kitchen, encouraging a more stimulating environment and place to engage children with food and cooking activities.	Bourke	$5,000
19	Breeza Progress Association Installation of a 24,000L rainwater tank at the Fire Brigade Shed, providing water for firefighting, tree watering and a backup supply for the Breeza Park toilets in times of drought.	Breeza	$5,000
20	Corinella Takes a Village Refurbishment of community facility toilet block and repair of the sewerage system, improving hygiene and encouraging more use of the venue, attracting training, cultural and social activities.	Forbes	$5,000
21	CWA NSW – Burren Junction Modernisation of the kitchen facilities and the paint and a refit of the nurse’s room, increasing the hire of rooms and enhancing the group’s main income of in-house catering.	Burren Junction	$5,000
22	Gilgandra Show Society Inc Provide support for local school students to attend show judging schools and competitions, increasing involvement in the show movement while building confidence, developing specialist skills and enabling personal growth.	Gilgandra	$5,000
23	Hay Public School P&C Association Purchase of equipment for a school and community Perceptual Motor Program, assisting in the development of fine and gross motor skills and motor planning and coordination.	Hay	$5,000
24	Moree Plains Gallery Society Inc Purchase of materials for a local art program, furthering creative expression for disadvantaged participants in a safe environment.	Moree	$5,000
25	Narromine We Run Purchase of a commercial grade solar blanket for the community pool, extending the amount of time the pool can be used throughout the year for children’s learn to swim programs, Golden Oldies exercise classes and the general community.	Narromine	$5,000
26	Ooranga Family Mobile Resource Unit Association Inc Purchase of educational resources, play equipment, furniture and electronic devices for the establishment of a mobile preschool, providing greater access to early education.	Gunnedah	$5,000
27	Paediatric and Maternity Support Inc Contribution to the purchase of a Bilisoft Phototherapy System, enabling an effective treatment therapy for babies with jaundice.	Gunnedah	$5,000
28	Tharawonga Mobile Resource Unit (Gwydir Shire Council) Installation of soft fall at Crooble Hall, enabling children to play outdoors, enhancing the development of gross motor and social skills.	Bingara	$5,000
29	TTF Western Rosella Trust Updating old floor coverings and installing new outdoor shade sails at the local early learning centre, providing a safe floor inside and sun protection in the outdoor play area.	Hillston	$5,000
30	Warren Historical Society Inc Undertaking urgent repairs to the hall floor and installation of an air-conditioner, improving safety for frail and ageing residents underfoot and increasing comfort for users of the facility during hot summer months.	Warren	$5,000