Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)
This story was submitted as part of FRRR’s 25th birthday celebrations.
“The Eden Community Access Centre reflects on FRRR’s 25 years with deep appreciation and admiration. FRRR has been a cornerstone in empowering rural and regional communities across Australia, including Eden, by providing vital funding and support for grassroots initiatives. Their commitment to fostering resilience, sustainability and innovation has enabled countless projects that address local challenges and enhance community wellbeing. For Eden, FRRR’s support has likely been instrumental in driving community development, whether through grants for environmental conservation, social services or skill-building programs. FRRR’s funding has strengthened local capacity, brought people together and created lasting impacts that continue to benefit the community. As FRRR celebrates this milestone, the Eden Community Access Centre expresses its hope for continued collaboration, envisioning a future where rural and regional communities like Eden thrive even more, thanks to FRRR’s unwavering dedication. It’s a moment to celebrate shared achievements and look forward to new opportunities for growth and connection.”
Carina Severs, Manager
“We used FRRR funding for the employment of a Community Development Officer, as well as the facilitation of Eden Project Labs. The support received from FRRR to implement post disaster recovery plans and projects has been a key component to facilitating ongoing local recovery efforts and, more importantly, helping to get our communities back to post disaster social and economic wellbeing. The Community Development Officer position has been especially welcomed and of great benefit, shouldering some of the load of local NFP’s to ensure community continues to have a say while still providing that strong advocacy role with local, state & federal governments. Our community feels more empowered, and this is evidenced by their self-organisation via the continued support of the Eden Project Labs. The Project Labs have been a sustained initiative enabling locals to come together and get support to progress ideas.
The Project Lab would not be the success it is today without FRRR funds and Eden, and its surrounding village’s “voice” would not be heard as loud as it is.”
Eden’s vision for the future
“Improved individual and community social and economic wellbeing. A more engaged and proactive community and a positive community which advocates for itself and the betterment of the local area.”
