Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) will host two free capacity building workshops for volunteers, Board members and paid staff members of community groups and not-for-profits in Taree and Wingham, as part of the Investing in Not-for-Profit Capacity in Regional NSW (INFPC) program.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Manning-Valley-Historical-Society-1024x762.png)
The program, which is funded by Paul Ramsay Foundation, aims to enhance the capacity of local grassroots not-for-profit organisations, helping them to respond and thrive in the face of current challenges, including recovery from the fires, floods and impacts of COVID.
These workshops have been specifically created based on input from community groups at workshops last year. The two sessions will focus on building the confidence and capacity of community group Board’s, exploring practical solutions for success and sustainability and engaging strategies for recruitment, retention and management of volunteers.
Workshop 1: Governance Skills: Build your Board’s confidence & capacity Date: Tuesday 29 November 2022 Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (catering included) Venue: The Auditorium, Club Taree, 121 Wingham Road, Taree Register: https://bit.ly/3FpMy3Q | Workshop 2: Engaging & Sustaining Volunteers: Recruitment, retention & management strategies Date: Wednesday 30 November 2022 Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm (catering included) Venue: The Auditorium, Club Taree, 121 Wingham Road, Taree Register: https://bit.ly/3DEnAfG |
The sessions are free but places are limited, so attendees are encouraged to register now. These highly interactive workshops will be facilitated by Nicole Weber, who has 25 years’ experience as a manager of teams, in mostly Human Services organisations in the public, private and not-for-profit sector.
For queries about the workshops, email info@frrr.org.au or call 1800 170 020
Investing in Not-for-Profit Capacity in Regional NSW is an 18 month place-based program running in three bushfire affected communities, being Bega, Taree and Wingham, and Glen Innes. For more information visit https://frrr.org.au/investing-in-not-for-profit-capacity-nsw/.
In December 2021, FRRR awarded five grants totalling $150,152 to a range of community groups in Taree and Wingham. Projects responded to many of the issues raised during previous workshop sessions, including strategic and operational planning, marketing, revenue strategy and digital solutions to support volunteers and not-for-profit organisations.
Visy has donated $250,000 towards flood recovery in Victoria, contributing to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Flood Recovery appeal.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/IMG-20221018-WA0008-1024x768.jpg)
The money donated by Visy, through the Pratt Foundation, will support not-for-profit and community organisations in Victoria’s flood affected regions, helping to meet short-term recovery needs and enabling key backbone groups to keep supporting their communities, as needs evolve.
Visy Executive Chairman Anthony Pratt said the funding would target those areas of the state hit hardest by the recent floods.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by the floods and we hope this donation helps in the recovery,” Mr Pratt said.
“Natural disasters always bring out the best in Australians, so I encourage anyone who can help to do so.”
The Pratt Foundation has now donated more than $4.7 million to the FRRR since its inception.
FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton welcomed the generous donation, noting it is yet another example of the Pratt Foundation stepping up to help rural and regional communities in Victoria that are affected by disasters.
“The Pratt Foundation has been a longstanding partner and we greatly appreciate them again trusting FRRR to ensure funds reach the small grassroots community-led organisations that will spearhead the recovery in so many communities.
“We continue to see local people helping one another prepare for the impacts of this slow-moving flood and there have been great local efforts in cleaning up. But the impacts of this will be felt for a long, long time both socially and economically, and communities will need a lot of support for a long time to come.
“These funds will be channelled through our Strengthening Rural Communities Prepare & Recover stream. It will also allow our team to work closely with local leaders to ensure funds really get where they need.
“The Prepare & Recover stream is always open, so groups that already know what they need can apply now, or whenever they are ready,” Ms Egleton explained.
Anyone wanting to contribute to the FRRR Flood Appeal can go to www.frrr.org.au/flood-recovery
Initiatives funded in Nowra, Ulladulla, Bateman’s Bay and Bay & Basin
In partnership with The Snow Foundation and the Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation, FRRR has awarded $470,670 to community organisations across the South Coast of NSW. These grants are through the Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program, which builds and supports the capacity of local not-for-profit (NFP) organisations.
![South Coast communities given a boost of more than $450,000_community leaders in Bay & Basin](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/IRCF_Bay-Basin_Group-1-1-1024x735.jpg)
IRCF is a multi-year program that gives NFPs the resources and connections they need to support one another and to establish relationships that allow them to collaborate to fill in the existing gaps in their communities. The program operates in the South Coast communities of Nowra, Ulladulla, Bateman’s Bay and Bay & Basin.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that the FRRR team has seen an increase in the level of interest in the IRCF program.
“One of the key elements of this program is the road mapping process where we bring local leaders together to identify gaps and, more importantly, future opportunities for their communities. This is quite unique to this program and so we have really noticed during this round, that the engagement in the road mapping process increased as everyone involved has now developed a greater understanding of how it works and how much it can benefit their local communities.
“We also noticed that community groups and NFPs are taking a much more collaborative approach to finding volunteers after volunteer engagement levels dropped off as a result of back-to-back disasters over the last couple of years. This is wonderful to see, as this program is designed specifically to encourage community organisations to work with one another and to find solutions within their own area and network,” Ms Egleton said.
Terry Snow, Founder of The Snow Foundation, which supports three regions within the IRCF program – Nowra, Bateman’s Bay and Ulladulla – said partnering with FRRR over the past three years has built stronger relationships within the South Coast communities.
“The South Coast is my home and given the challenges over the past few years, I have seen how bringing people together strengthens community. This is why the IRCF program is so good. It brings community groups together to work collaboratively and decide what they need and the best way to make it happen and each year relationships just get stronger,” Mr Snow said.
David Impey, CEO of Community Enterprise Foundation, the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s charitable arm, said they are proud of their partnership with FRRR and supporting the Bay & Basin communities.
“After what’s been an unimaginably difficult couple of years for these communities, it’s inspirational to see the community members coming together and working with one another as they once again begin to look towards building a more vibrant and resilient future. It’s this kind of dedication and willingness to support one another that will see the South Coast region thriving long into the future and that’s something that we take great pride in being part of,” Mr Impey said.
Some of the projects being funded are:
- Nowra Community Food Store Incorporated, Nowra – Planning for the Future – Define the direction of the organisation with a five-year strategic plan, operational business plan and HR framework – $13,000
- StoryFest Incorporated, Ulladulla/Shoalhaven – Fundraising for StoryFest school students – Enable the continued growth and success of StoryFest with a new website and marketing campaign – $10,000
- Rotary Club of Batemans Bay Inc, Batemans Bay/Eurobodalla – Establish and maintain the Batemans Bay Community Hub to provide information, resources and opportunities for local NFP organisations – $19,370
- Bay & Basin Community Resources Limited, Bay & Basin – Work, life and training Centre – Increase opportunities for youth to engage in training and employment with a project coordinator to establish a work, life and training centre – $30,000
In addition to the South Coast region, the IRCF South Coast program is also working in in Junee, Leeton and Nambucca Valley in partnership with the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation.
For more information about the Investing in Rural Community Futures program visit – https://frrr.org.au/ircf-program/.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects is below.
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BATEMANS BAY PARTNERSHIP GRANTS | ||||||
The Circle Foundation Cooperative Ltd | Building Capacity: Circle Foundation Cooperative Business Systems Development Build capacity by employing a project officer and IT enhancements to facilitate ongoing service delivery for people living with chronic illness. | Eurobodalla | $22,675 | |||
Eurobodalla Education and Therapy Services Ltd | Attract and Retain Allied Health Professionals Attract and retain specialised staff by formulating a well structured learning and development strategy for the organisation. | Batemans Bay | $20,000 | |||
The Family Place Inc | Scoping Housing Solutions - Community Creating a Better Future Stimulate innovative thinking focussed on housing solutions by engaging a project officer to develop and cost models to enable clients and broader community to sustain tenancy and support sector wide collaboration. | Moruya | $26,208 | |||
Rotary Club of Batemans Bay Inc | Batemans Bay Community Hub Establish and maintain the Batemans Bay Community Hub to provide information, resources and opportunities for local NFP organisations. | Batemans Bay | $19,370 | |||
SEARMS Community Housing Aboriginal Corporation | Living Library - Knowledge Circle Celebrating the cultural gift of language and the art of story telling in Aboriginal culture by adopting a holistic approach and sustained capabilities to community engagement. | Batemans Bay | $14,000 | |||
Southcoast Health and Sustainability Alliance | Batemans Bay Community Coordinator and Business Manager Strengthen governance and business systems internally, continue to connect with council and assist not for profit community organisations to reduce their on-going energy costs. | Batemans Bay Region | $20,000 | |||
BAY & BASIN PARTNERSHIP GRANTS | ||||||
Bay & Basin Community Resources Ltd | Work, Life and Training Centre Increase opportunities for youth to engage in training and employment with a project coordinator to establish a work, life and training centre. | Sanctuary Point | $30,000 | |||
Sussex Inlet Foundation for Community Development | Strengthening our Foundation Strengthen the volunteer committee of the Foundation for Community Development to help them grow the ways they can support and strengthen the Sussex Inlet Community. | Sussex Inlet | $19,500 | |||
Tomerong School of Arts | Policies and Procedures Project Enable the hall to operate more effectively with the development of policies and procedures. | Tomerong | $12,000 | |||
Vincentia High School P & C Association | Launch of Walawaani-ngarn Boost the profile and awareness of the community health hub with a launch event and marketing material. | Vincentia | $9,000 | |||
NOWRA PARTNERSHIP GRANTS | ||||||
Bomaderry Community Inc | Paying It Forward - Supporting Those People Who Sustain Our Community Support the volunteers to rejuvenate and focus on their passion | Bomaderry | $3,240 | |||
Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Aboriginal Corporation | Maintaining Momentum - Cullunghutti Master Plan Boost capacity to engage project officer to operationalise the strategic plan previously funded. | Shoalhaven | $20,000 | |||
Kangaroo Valley Voice Incorporated | Kangaroo Valley Hub Enable development of a community hub with the collation of information and scoping of project. | Kangaroo Valley | $15,000 | |||
Noahs Ark Centre of Shoalhaven Inc | Knowledge, Strength and Resilience- Sharing for the Future Nurture opportunity to provide intergenerational peer mentoring of professionals in the disability service. | Nowra | $7,900 | |||
Nowra Community Food Store Incorporated | Planning for the Future Define the direction of the organisation with a 5 year strategic plan, operational business plan and HR framework. | South Nowra | $13,000 | |||
Nowra Local Aboriginal Land Council | Strong Foundations Establish organisational policies and procedures manual, branding and communications strategy and provide governance support to the board. | Bomaderry | $18,315 | |||
Pathways Foundation Limited | Pathways To Leadership Strengthen skills and abilities of youth mentors to deliver best practice programs locally. | Berry | $24,000 | |||
Shoalhaven Business Chamber Incorporated | Community Plus Enable the community sector to leverage the established business chamber to share knowledge, build capacity and resilience by strengthening the links between the corporate and community sector. | Shoalhaven | $20,000 | |||
Shoalhaven Community Pre School Inc | Administration and Operations Manager Support the final transition of the organisational growth and relocation of preschool. | Nowra | $30,000 | |||
The Shoalhaven Women's Resource Group Ltd | Capacity and Capability Building Prepare the organisation to achieve accreditation, develop branding and a more efficient and informative website. | Nowra | $10,000 | |||
ULLADULLA PARTNERSHIP GRANTS | ||||||
Independence Ulladulla Inc | Helping Hands Improve systems to support leadership to innovate and grow | Ulladulla | $19,000 | |||
Milton Ulladulla Business Chamber Inc | Community Connect - Information Creates Endless Possibilities Continuation of building connections within the community groups, assisting the the existing and new volunteers by capturing important information, to then share and create possibilities for the broader community. | Ulladulla | $20,830 | |||
Noahs Ark Centre of Shoalhaven Inc | Destination Ulladulla Part Two Implement communication plan and to disseminate our videos most effectively and will build on capacity in recruitment and communications into the future. | Ulladulla | $12,000 | |||
Safe Waters Community Care Inc | De-Escalation Training and Occupational Violence Prevention Training Empower staff and volunteers with the skills to de-escalate conflict and violence situations. | Ulladulla | $3,900 | |||
South Coast Bookclubs Inc | Saving and Expanding the Bookclub Support for a self-sustaining book club service in Ulladulla to create a sense of community for new and existing residents. | Ulladulla | $6,456 | |||
StoryFest Inc | StoryFest Inc - Fundraising for StoryFest Enable the continued growth and success of StoryFest with a new website and marketing campaign | Milton | $10,000 | |||
The Dunn & Lewis Youth Development Foundation Ltd | Community Spotlight Foster youth interest in community volunteering with a Youth Podcast Series. | Ulladulla | $10,795 | |||
Treading Lightly Inc | Regenerative Development Officer Role Build a Regenerative Design Model for the benefit of this and other NFP organisation as well as a wider range of stakeholders. | Ulladulla | $30,000 | |||
Ulladulla and Districts Community Resources Centre Inc | Building Sustainability Prepare the Raft Race Committee for the future with succession planning and marketing support. | Ulladulla | $3,481 |
As thousands of Australians continue to be impacted by floods in Victoria and Tasmania, FRRR is seeking donations to meet the recovery needs of the remote, rural and regional communities that will need help and support in the coming months and years.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/MwO9kdxs-1024x768.jpeg)
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that the Foundation has already seen local people and organisations once again step up and come together to support one another in the lead up and, as waters start to recede in some places, with the long road to recovery that they have ahead of them.
“The people and places in flood affected regions throughout Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania will continue to feel the impacts of what’s unfolding for months and years to come. We really can’t stress enough just how big the long term social and economic consequences can be as a result of these kinds of natural disasters.
“Many of these regions, particularly those in Central Victoria, have been through this kind of disaster before, making the current floods all the more traumatic. Many members of the FRRR team themselves have spent the last few days evacuating, helping loved ones to evacuate or have been out sandbagging in their local communities.
“In the last 20 plus years, FRRR has built strong networks and relationships with the people and the community organisations that are being impacted right now and, as always, we’ll be waiting and ready to support them throughout the medium to long term recovery process. Donations to our flood appeal will help to rebuild infrastructure in these areas, address the physical and mental health challenges that occur as a result of this disaster, build the capacity of community groups and strengthen community-led recovery efforts,” Ms Egleton explained.
People can support FRRR’s Flood Recovery Appeal by donating to the Disaster Resilience and Recovery Fund, the Central Victorian Fund or the Strengthening Rural Communities: Prepare & Recover program.
Donations to the Disaster Resilience and Recovery Fund are pooled and invested to ensure that remote, rural and regional communities affected by natural disasters can access flexible, fit-for-purpose funding to support local preparedness and recovery efforts, when it’s needed. For those specifically wanting to support Central Victoria, FRRR also offers the Central Victoria Fund, which continues the legacy of the Central Victoria Community Foundation and focuses solely on that region.
Alternatively, donations can be made to FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities: Prepare and Recover program, with FRRR offering one-off, flexible grants through this program to support community organisations in these flood-impacted regions.
FRRR has supported remote, rural and regional communities across the country prepare for and recover from natural disasters since 2006. To date, FRRR has distributed around $46 million for community-led disaster recovery and resilience initiatives.
If you’d like to provide immediate assistance, below is a list of some local organisations that are helping to coordinate support in affected areas:
- Tomorrow Today Foundation – Benalla
- Border Trust – Albury Wodonga Region Community Foundation
- Greater Shepparton Foundation
- Into Our Hands – North East Victoria
- Shepparton FoodShare
- Home – Bendigo Foodshare
- Neighbourhood Houses
- GIVIT
- Rural Aid
- Spontaneous Volunteering – Maribyrnong, Seymour, Rochester, Shepperton and Echuca
Finally, if you would like to volunteer, BlazeAid is currently in the process of recruiting and assembling crews of volunteers.
53 priority projects receive grants through Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants programs
Fifty-three important community projects across the length and breadth of remote, rural and regional Australia will share $250,000 in funding, thanks to the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program.
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This is the second year of the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program, which offers grants of up to $5,000 for projects that contribute to community wellbeing and vibrancy in remote, rural and regional communities.
Nutrien Ag Solutions Director of Corporate Affairs Carissa Buckland says they received more than 300 applications from communities right across the country.
“The strong number of applications we continue to receive for this program clearly indicates the need for this level of support for grassroots, not-for-profit organisations. So, we’re delighted to award grants to so many diverse projects that help these remote, rural and regional communities thrive,” says Ms Buckland.
“Part of the application process involves the local Nutrien store actively endorsing each project and application. Our stores are very integrated in their communities and our teams are passionate about providing meaningful support to positively impact the towns in which they live and work in, so this is a really important part of the process.
“This year we have approved grants to enhance and support the delivery of community events, including new marquees, grandstand seating and improved website functionality to support local show and expo event management. Critical funding will also go towards a diverse range of restorations, upgrades and new equipment for community facilities – from a toilet roof to rejuvenated courtyards to outdoor seating and kitchens, data projectors and lawn mowers. There’s even funding for sensory, Zen, bush tucker and community gardens, with each project designed to inclusively meet the needs of their communities. While they are not large value grants, these projects enable community activity to build connection and, importantly, support volunteers in all their efforts,” says Ms Buckland.
The Program is proudly run in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR).
FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton says she appreciates organisations like Nutrien Ag Solutions partnering with FRRR to support the priorities of grassroots organisations that are the heartbeat of remote, rural and regional communities across Australia.
“The volume and nature of these applications is a strong sign that rural community life is returning to normal, although it also signifies just how challenging it is to raise these funds locally and the extent of the need that exists.
“It’s really pleasing for us that so much of the funding – nearly 30% – will go to communities with fewer than 500 people, which makes fundraising really hard. Most of the groups are also located in outer regional, remote or very remote areas of the country,” Ms Egleton explains.
The full list of recipients is available below. Some of the organisations and projects being supported include:
- Illabo Showground Land Manager, Illabo, NSW – Build capacity at the local show grounds with a WIFI upgrade, defibrillator installation and new broadcast system to enhance operations and experience for all users. $5,000
- Dagun Community Group Inc., Dagun, QLD – Enhance community connections with the restoration of the Dagun railway station labyrinth and Mary Valley agricultural history display, and through the community garden project. $4,900
- Limestone Coast Multicultural Network Incorporated, Naracoorte, SA – Build organisational capability with development of a strategic plan to support strengthening the Limestone Coast Multicultural Network. $4,952
- Hamilton District Agricultural Show Society, Hamilton, TAS – Build, grow and protect skills and networks with four workshops focusing on entrepreneurism, rural OH&S and resilience.$5,000
- Kyabram Blue Light, Kyabram, VIC – Increase social engagement opportunities and activities for youth in Kyabram to support their healthy growth and development. $5,000
- Lower Kalgan Community Association Incorporated, Albany, WA – Build resilience through a Fire Resilience Workshop – “Making your Property Fire Safe and Sustainable” exploring preparedness and land management aligned to changing climate impacts. $5,000
The third round of the Program is expected to open around June 2023. Community groups looking for funding in the interim should head to www.frrr.org.au/find-funding.
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES | ||||||
A Taste of Paradise Organic Farm Limited | Outdoor Kitchen Construction Enhance facilities where the community comes together and connects with the installation of an outdoor kitchen. | Broughton Village | $5,000 | |||
Broken Hill Branch The Australian Stock Horse Society Incorporated Topar Christmas Tree | Topar Christmas Tree Improve social connectedness and build resilience by supporting the Topar Christmas Party for 60 adults and 40 children in the isolated area. | Little Topar | $4,975 | |||
Challenge Community Services | Creation of a Zen Sensory Garden at Challenge's Patterson Street Disability Site Increase inclusion with the creation of a Zen Sensory Garden at Challenge's Patterson Street Disability site. | Tamworth | $4,550 | |||
Delungra Memorial Bowling & Recreation Club Ltd | Rejuvenate, Protect and Provide Enhance organisational capacity with the provision of adequate storage for the Delungra Memorial Bowling Club. | Delungra | $5,000 | |||
Dorrigo Community Nursery Inc | Water Resilience for the Dorrigo Community Nursery Improve the water efficiency of Dorrigo Community Garden with a new water tank enabling multiple volunteer projects. | Dorrigo | $5,000 | |||
Gulgong Show Society Inc | Operation Seating Increase the organisations ability to support their community with the provision of seating under the sheltered area of the Gulgong Showgrounds. | Gulgong | $3,427 | |||
Illabo Showground Land Manager | Facilities Enhancement Enhance community facilities safety by upgrading the broadcasting box, installing a defibrillator and enhancing Wifi facilities at the Illabo Showgrounds. | Illabo | $5,000 | |||
Laggan Hall Land Manager | Laggan Hall Ride-on Mower Boost volunteer vitality with the provision of a ride on mower supporting the maintenance of the Laggan Hall grounds.. | Laggan | $5,000 | |||
Lions Club of Young Incorporated | Shelving for Lions Shed Increase the capacity of the Lions Club of Young with the installation of appropriate shelving in their storage shed. | Young | $4,263 | |||
Nyngan Ag Expo Incorporated | Nyngan Ag Expo Website, Interactive Site Map and Exhibitor Booking Upgrade Build organisational capacity by upgrading the website of Nygan Ag Expo with site booking functionality to reduce volunteer efforts and increase efficiency in operations. | Nyngan | $5,000 | |||
two eight two eight inc | two eight two eight Lighting Upgrade Increase access to community facilities with the preservation of the historic Gulargambone hall. | Gulargambone | $5,000 | |||
QUEENSLAND | ||||||
Artworks Granite Belt INC | Stanthorpe QFS Restoration Project Preserve local history with the restoration of the Stanthorpe QFS building. | Stanthorpe | $5,000 | |||
Dagun Community Group Inc | Mary Valley Agricultural History Display and Dagun Railway Station Labyrinth/Community Garden Project Enhance community connections with the restoration of a labyrinth and agricultural history display supported by social gardening days. | Dagun | $4,900 | |||
Geham State School Parent & Citizens Association | New Data Projector for the Geham School/Community Activities Building Upgrade community facilities with a new data projector to support community engagement including movie nights, local events and school presentations. | Geham | $5,000 | |||
Hungerford Sports Association Inc | Portable Shade Tents for Hungerford Community Increase the organisational capacity of Hungerford Sports Association with the provision of portable shade tents to support community events and activities. | Hungerford | $5,000 | |||
Isis Community Pre-School & Kindergarten Association Inc | Indigenous Entrance Art and Bush Tucker Garden Increase cultural awareness at the Isis Community Kindergarten with the installation of an Indigenous artwork and Bush Tucker Garden. | Childers | $5,000 | |||
Lions Club of Home Hill | Replacement Gazebos and Catering Bar-b-ques Increase organisational capacity with the provision of gazebos and catering equipment for the Lions Club of Home Hill. | Home Hill | $5,000 | |||
Mundubbera Horse and Pony Club Inc | Shaded Grandstand for Mundubbera Community Enhance community facilities by supporting the installation of a shaded grandstand at the Mundubbera Showgrounds. | Mundubbera | $5,000 | |||
Prospect Community Services Ltd | Charters Towers & the Region Wellness Luncheon Enhance general health and wellbeing with the provision of a series of community wellness activities across the Charters Towers region. | Charters Towers | $5,000 | |||
Tambo Child Care Parents Group Inc | Tambo Childcare Centre Sensory Garden Project Enhance engagement in traditional educational settings with the development of a sensory garden at the Tambo Child Care facility. | Tambo | $5,000 | |||
SOUTH AUSTRALIA | ||||||
Booleroo Centre Community Development and Tourism Association Incorporated | Pass the Popcorn! Increase functionality of the local Booleroo Hall with the provision of a projector for community information sharing and entertainment. | Booleroo Centre | $5,000 | |||
Bute History Group Inc | Blinds Installation Build organisational capacity for the Bute Historical Society with new window blinds to protect their artefacts from sun damage. | Bute | $4,660 | |||
Cambrai Sports Club Inc | Installation of Solar Power to Enhance Regional Community Facility Reduce organisational overheads with the installation of Solar power at the Cambrai Sports Club. | Cambrai | $5,000 | |||
Crystal Brook Kindergarten | A Path of Intergenerational Connection Increase community connections with "A path of intergenerational Connection" enabling kindergarten children and residents of Roseview Aged care to come together in a safe space. | Crystal Brook | $5,000 | |||
Limestone Coast Multicultural Network Incorporated | Strategic Plan Development - Limestone Coast Multicultural Network Build organisational capacity with a strategic plan and vision to support the Limestone Coast Multicultural Network development. | Naracoorte | $4,952 | |||
Lucindale Area School | Aquaponics Student Learning Facility Enhance the learning opportunities at Lucindale Area School with aquaponics equipment to enable community vegetable growing. | Lucindale | $4,633 | |||
Marree Sports Club Inc | Sound System for Marree Sports Club Increase the organisational capacity of the Maree Sports Club with the installation of a sound system. | Marree | $5,000 | |||
Paskeville Football Club Incorporated | Kitchen Upgrade Increase functionality of the Paskeville Community centre by relocating the hot water system. | Paskeville | $5,000 | |||
TASMANIA | ||||||
Community Garden Wynyard Inc | Greenhouse Construction Increase community activities and opportunities to connect with the expansion of the Wynyard Community Garden facility. | Wynyard | $5,000 | |||
Hamilton District Agricultural Show Society | ‘Build, Grow, Protect’ Build community capability with four workshops focused on building resilience in individuals, growing their networks and protecting the rural community. | Hamilton | $5,000 | |||
May Shaw Health Centre Inc | Beach Wheelchair Project Increase access with the provision of an all surface wheelchair enabling beach access for residents and visitors of May Shaw Health with poor mobility. | Swansea | $5,000 | |||
North Eastern Agricultural & Pastoral Society Incorporated | Light Towers Increase organisational sustainability with the provision of light towers to mitigate regular hiring costs for the North Eastern Agricultural and Pastoral Society. | Scottsdale | $3,681 | |||
Parkham Community Inc | Restoration of Parkham Community Centre floor Support the development of places where the community can connect, learn and gather by restoring the Parkham Church as the Parkham Community Centre. | Parkham | $4,901 | |||
VICTORIA | ||||||
A Better Life For Foster Kids Incorporated | Crisis Cases for Foster Care Support vulnerable foster children transitioning to care with essential item packs to provide comfort and reduce emotional stress. | Sale | $5,000 | |||
Arapiles Community Theatre Inc Natimuk & District Soldiers Memorial Hall Committee | Natimuk Soldiers Memorial Hall Audio Visual System Boost community vitality with the installation of a data projector and sound system at the Natimuk Soldiers Memorial Hall for cultural events and increased hall usage. | Natimuk | $5,000 | |||
Boort District Agricultural and Pastoral Society Incorporated | Professional Marquees for Boort Show! Enhance the organisational capacity of Boort District Agricultural and Pastoral Society Incorporated with the provision of marquees for use at community events and activities. | Boort | $5,000 | |||
Cobden Technical School | Outdoor Meeting Space / Outdoor Classroom Improve the functionality of the outdoor classroom at Cobden Technical College with improved wife and seating, built by the local Men's Shed. | Cobden | $5,000 | |||
Connewirricoo Community Centre Incorporated | Connewirricoo Community Centre Toilets Roofing Restore community assets with repairs to the roof and walls of the Connewirricoo Community Centre ablution block. | Connewirricoo | $5,000 | |||
Gallery Central Incorporated | Gallery Lighting Improvement Improve community facilities in Nhill with new lighting at the local community art gallery to enhance visitor and local experience. | Nhill | $2,873 | |||
Heathcote Community House Incorperated | Heathcote Sustainable Community House Build organisational capacity and capability with the implementation of sustainability initiatives including a roof top solar installation. | Heathcote | $5,000 | |||
Kyabram Blue Light | Kyabram Blue Light Youth Engagement Activities 2022-2023 Increase youth connection with the provision of Blue Light activities and events for Kyabram and surrounding districts. | Kyabram | $5,000 | |||
Pomonal Progress Association Incorporated | Mini Foody Festival - Towards a Resilient Pomonal Provide access to activities to increase community connection and resilience by hosting the Pomonal Mini Foody Festival. | Pomonal | $5,000 | |||
Seymour Puckapunyal Community Radio Incorporated | Relocation of 103.9FM Community Radio Station Increase the broadcasting network of the Seymore Puckapunyal Community Radio by relocating the radio station to a more accessible site. | Seymour | $5,000 | |||
The Trustee for Country Fire Authority & Brigades Donations Fund Sandsmere Rural Fire Brigade | Training Equipment and Wellbeing Session Funding Boost organisational capacity with the provision of training equipment and volunteer support for Kaniva Country Fire Authority. | Kaniva | $2,749 | |||
Toora Community Action Team Incorporated | Toora: GunaiKurnai Country Preserve understanding of local origins and reflect on the impacts of a changing climate on the Toora community with the installation of a sculpture in the township. | Toora | $5,000 | |||
WESTERN AUSTRALIA | ||||||
1922 & You Inc | 1922 & You Centenary Courtyard Project Rejuvenate community connections in Corrigin through revitalising the courtyard as a landing place for social and wellbeing activity. | Corrigin | $3,500 | |||
Dowerin District High School Parents & Citizens Association Incorporated | Child Protection Education - Safe4Kids Workshops Enhance child safety practice through training of teacher, parents and children to build awareness and develop community skills and capability for addressing issues. | Dowerin | $5,000 | |||
Geraldton Community Toy Library | The Geraldton Toy Library Building Rejuvenation Project Increase organisational capacity with the provision of adequate storage and fencing upgrades at the Geraldton Toy Library facility. | Geraldton | $5,000 | |||
Gingin Playgroup Incorporated | Community Engagement with Playgroup Increase community resilience and connections with the provision of community events at activities at the Gingin Playgroup. | Gingin | $2,400 | |||
Lower Kalgan Community Association Incorporated | Fire Resilience Workshop - Making your Property Fire Safe and Sustainable in the Great Southern Improve community resilience and preparedness with a workshop on property fire safety and climate change impact awareness. | Albany | $5,000 | |||
Pemberton Sports Club Inc | Mower for the Pemberton Sports Club Increase the vitality of volunteers with the provision of a ride on mower for the Pemberton Sports club. | Pemberton | $5,000 | |||
Shire of Morawa | Sup and Paint Morawa - Art Evenings Create opportunities for the community to connect with the arts with the delivery of Art lessons in Morawa. | Morawa | $5,000 | |||
Tom Price Community Garden Inc | Revegetation of Bush Tucker Area Increase access to community activities with the revegetation of the Bush Tucker in the Community Garden. | Tom Price | $5,000 |
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) today announced the appointment of Georgie Somerset AM to the FRRR Board.
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FRRR Chairman, Tim Fairfax AC, said that having someone with Georgie Somerset’s depth and breadth of experience will be a key asset and only serve to strengthen the board.
“Georgie brings a number of different perspectives to the board – as a primary producer, active community member, respected industry leader and experienced board director. With decades of experience managing the challenges associated with living in remote and regional communities, Georgie will bring a fantastic drive and strength to the FRRR board.
“In the last five years, FRRR has more than doubled our granting, and with the challenges and opportunities continuing to face remote, rural and regional communities only increasing, we will benefit from her input as we shape the future for the organisation,” Mr Fairfax said.
On accepting the invitation to join the board, Georgie said, “I have enormous respect for the approach FRRR takes to strengthening regional Australia through targeted and effective support. Being invited to join the board is an opportunity to contribute to the Foundation’s future growth and impact.
“FRRR shines a light on communities doing great work, seed funding and magnifying resourceful solutions and ideas. This positive approach is needed more than ever as communities across Australia grapple with complex challenges such as post COVID migration patterns and demands on services.
“The ability to invest in our future leaders and take a locally driven, solutions-based approach enables FRRR to continue being impactful, and I’m delighted to now be able to help steer the organisation.”
Based in the South Burnett region of rural Queensland, Georgie is actively involved in the operation of the multi-generational family beef business on her family’s cattle property.
As an industry leader, Georgie was a founder, and later president, of the Queensland Rural Regional and Remote Women’s Network (QRRRWN) and held roles with the National Foundation for Australian Women, as well as being a founding member and Chair of the Red Earth Community Foundation.
Currently Georgie is the president of AgForce Queensland, Deputy chair of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland section), Director of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), the National Farmers Federation and the RFDS Foundation. Georgie also serves on a number of advisory committees for regional development, tertiary institutions, industry and community groups and a number of government review panels.
In addition to Tim Fairfax AC and Georgie Somerset AM, the other members of FRRR’s board include:
- Anne Grindrod, Deputy Chair
- Paddy Handbury
- Patrick Myer
- Annabel White
- Bruce Scott OAM
- Sue Middleton
- Andrew McKenzie JP
- Hon. Simon Crean
- Hon. John Sharp AM
- James Flintoft
For 33 years families from Singleton and surrounding areas experiencing life challenges – from domestic violence to anxiety in young people – have been coming to Singleton Family Support for therapeutic counselling, family capacity building, education and wellbeing programs.
Situated on the banks of the Hunter River, Singleton is in NSW, some 197 kilometres north-north-west of Sydney. A major coal mining centre, the rural region has limited public transport options, a transient and often isolated population linked to the mining industry and limited support services.
Supporting this community, Singleton Family Support Services has a passionate, capable and qualified team of professional workers. Together, they offer support to more than 50 families in a one-to-one setting and approximately 30 individuals in a group setting at any given time.
Since the COVID pandemic and critically in the last few months as restrictions have eased, the Service has been inundated with referrals from individuals, families and other service providers. Over the last six months, referrals have increased more than 50% on the same time the previous year. The Service’s ability to refer onto other professionals, such as GPs, Psychologists, Housing services and Mental health providers, has also been impacted, with many professionals’ books closed and long waiting lists. This has placed a significant strain on the Singleton Family Support’s ability to respond to each referral appropriately. While there are many issues and people needing support, the Service is particularly concerned about the mental health of young people. COVID created a pandemic of anxiety and uncertainty with this group. There are no youth-specific mental health services in Singleton.
A $49,500 COVID Regional Community Support Program grant, funded by Resilience NSW, will allow the service to increase staff time. This equates to 80 additional referrals to Family Works, including 10 additional counselling places for youth. An additional six support groups can be offered to the community and it means further support for the organisation’s wellbeing programs. The funding reduces the pressure on the organisation. For families, this will mean timely assessments of the family’s needs, earlier interventions, greater access to counselling, educational programs and support groups, building awareness in parenting theories, domestic and family violence and mental health. This will all lead to increased family capacity to build resilience and safety for children and families.
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Health care in rural areas is so often lacking and this scarcity of services, coupled with workforce shortages, means that many chronic health conditions are poorly managed and preventative health programs can be hard to find.
That’s why our Program Coordinator, Jeanice Henderson, was excited to travel to Kerang in northern Victoria last month to learn more about the progress of the innovative Rural Health Matters project.
Funded through an FRRR Enhancing Country Health Outcomes (ECHO) grant in 2020, Northern District Community Health (NDCH) is making good use of their $115,000 grant, funded by Beyond Medical Education. They have employed Emily Wood as Buloke, Loddon and Gannawarra (BLG) Project Coordinator, and are leveraging a truly inspirational health partnership spanning three Local Government Areas and multiple health services. This collaborative placed-based, systems approach is delivering a suite of local initiatives to help improve the current and emerging health needs for BLG Shire residents.
Plans for the original launch of the Rural Health Matters project were thwarted by COVID lockdowns. However, Mandy Hutchinson, CEO of NDCH said the delays meant the August event became a real celebration of what has been achieved so far and what is to come; a chance to share and applaud the amazing work and local partnerships that are starting to shift the dial on local health outcomes.
It was easy to see from the original grant application that a lot of the hard work had already been done. The BLG Local Health Community Services had researched and created the ambitious BLG Health Needs implementation plan, and made a solid start on various projects.
The FRRR ECHO grant is helping them to take this to the next level. Emily has been tasked with mapping the current health service provision across the three Shires and identifying the existing gaps and opportunities for further collaboration. She is also responsible for running a community awareness campaign for Heart Health risk factors; developing an allied health community of practice with a focus on chronic disease management and bringing people together for an annual chronic health forum; and working closely with new initiatives such as the Sustainable Rural Health Project.
Emily said that the ECHO grant for the Rural Health Matters (RHM) project has enabled a backbone for additional work to be developed, implemented, or supported and promoted across the BLG region.
“Alongside the identified KPI’s of the RHM project, there has been the opportunity to continue facilitation of an existing Chronic Disease Management: Community of Practice (COP) for allied health professionals and nurses which had previously had facilitation funding for 12 months through Murray PHN. This role enabled not only the continuation of the COP but also allowed me to act as a conduit between the systems level planning and the on the ground experience and feedback of the allied health staff – as was the case with the Murray PHN Sustainable Rural Health project.
“I have also been able to support the application for the Smoking Research Project, which has since been funded by the Department of Health. Currently the RHM project is also supporting the facilitation of a reference group for the Smoking Research Project and the development of an EOI for the position.
“Alongside this work, the RHM project has enabled me to participate in a range of BLG network meetings involving Community Health and Health Promotion – ensuring alignment of work and priorities where possible but also avoiding duplication. I’ve also been able to support and work closely with the Murray PHN Sustainable Rural Health Project, the AgriSafe Clinics at NDCH and both the MoveIT! Project and the Healthy Heart of Victoria project in Loddon.
“Lastly, it cannot be overlooked that the meetings of the BLG for the RHM project oversight also facilitated COVID coordination and support between local health services through sharing of learnings, experiences and challenges during meetings. The ongoing opportunity for the health services across the BLG region to discuss COVID at these meetings has not only strengthened relationships but created partnerships and pathways for support that will continue to benefit the BLG community.”
Jeanice said, “It was really heart-warming to see and feel the incredible level of genuine enthusiasm and commitment in the room on the day. The depth and breadth of collaboration between the groups represented at the event was amazing, but so too their willingness to seek greater collaboration with others. It was also inspirational and affirming to hear how the ECHO grant has triggered further investment.“
The small regional town of Katanning, in the ‘heart’ of the Great Southern agricultural region, 287 kilometres south-east of Perth in WA, has a shire population of just 4,200 people. While the area is essentially known for agriculture, the town is a regional centre that offers a range of government, health and education services. The Katanning community also prides itself on its multicultural diversity.
This small community was impacted by a bushfire in February 2020, with rebuilding efforts hampered by lockdowns soon after. The community identified that it needed to find ways to engage their younger residents and keep them connected and supported.
The Katanning and Districts Pool Association Incorporated partnered with the Katanning Hub Community Resource Centre (CRC) and the Shire of Katanning to run a Youth program, inviting young people on a Friday night to come to their pool hall to socialise, learn new skills and share a meal. The program has been an overwhelming success with 35-40 young people attending each week.
The hall opened in the late 80s and did not include any kitchen facilities. Requests to use the hall from other community groups had been slowly increasing, as it is one of only a few indoor spaces available in Katanning. Providing catering facilities would make the venue a more suitable location to support these additional groups and their events. With the changing nature of the activities held at the hall, it was time for a refresh. To create a more usable space for community groups to meet, it was decided to add a kitchen area to better support the Youth program in preparing and serving these meals.
Other groups that use the hall were also supportive, including the local men’s group who expressed support for a kitchenette to make a cuppa and make their own events more welcoming for its members.
Thanks to a $10,000 Strengthening Rural Communities grant, funded by IKEA Australia, the Katanning and Districts Pool Association was able to revamp the ageing pool hall and add a meal preparation and serving area.
Local volunteers provided amazing support for the project, contributing more than 80 hours of labour to the renovations and 20 hours to fundraising each month, ensuring the project’s success.
Since finalising the renovation works, the association’s membership has increased, volunteers have been inspired to become more active and the use of the hall by other community groups has expanded. With the improved facilities making the hall more welcoming, friendly and a safe space for people of all ages, the Katanning community is feeling more connected with access to a space tailored to enjoy each other’s company.
The Katanning Police now drop by during the Youth program and challenge the young people to a game, further strengthening these important relationships. Badgebup Aboriginal cooperation is interested in partnering to deliver the Youth program into the future and the Katanning community are proud of what has been achieved, voicing it regularly in person and via social media.
The restoration of an historic jetty trolley has had unexpected benefits for men’s shed and community members on Kangaroo Island. The trolley was first used in the 1840s to transport basalt along the jetty onto waiting ships. The Kingscote Men’s Shed restoration project has seen the revival of rare trade skills using tools that were used 100 years ago to make the trolley, and the formation of new connections in the community.
The Men’s Shed received a $3,683 Strengthening Rural Communities grant, funded by the Waislitz Family Foundation, in partnership with Australian Community Media, to support recovery from the 2019/20 bushfires that devastated much of Kangaroo Island. This project is one of many FRRR supported across the island to strengthen community connection and support recovery activities.
Graeme Connell, Chair of the Kingscote Men’s Shed said, “The Kingscote Men’s Shed volunteers are very proud of their achievement to restore a 100-year-old jetty trolley and preserve the history of these trolleys that were used on jetties around Kangaroo Island. The older members of the Men’s Shed were able to share their knowledge about the skills and tools used in the old ways of construction of steel products with the younger members.”
The group used social media to stimulate interest and encourage new volunteers. New skills and friendships were formed between Men’s Shed members and community volunteers working together on this historic project, which included a local secondary student. Many passers-by were keen to see the restoration in progress, with a cup of tea at the ready for anyone interested in learning more or just having a chat.
The newly restored trolley sits proudly at the Pioneer Memorial Park as a monument both to past activities that forged the town, and as a marker of recovery. It has already become a favourite destination with local visitors and community members, particularly given its location overlooking the old wharf and beautiful coastline.
The Men’s Shed has well and truly achieved its goal of delivering a shared community project to create “meaningful interactions”. The sense of achievement and confidence from the project, and the camaraderie that has come from it has boosted mental health and wellbeing, which will have lasting impact on the group and wider community.
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