Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)

$1.25m in grants to be made available

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and CCI Giving have agreed to a five-year extension to their partnership and national grants program, In a Good Place (IAGP). This means that the grant program will now run until at least 2027.

HEADING: FRRR and CCI Giving make further five-year commitment to rural mental health.
IMAGE: Group shot of the Deadly Yarning & Learning participants.

CCI Giving has also made a commitment to increase the funding available each year by $50,000, meaning that there will be $250,000 available to applicants annually, starting next year.

The partnership between CCI Giving and FRRR began in May 2018 and, since then, $800,000 in grants have been awarded to 53 projects across remote, rural and regional Australia through the IAGP program.

This program strengthens mental health in rural communities by supporting locally-led initiatives that reduce social isolation, increase social participation and connectedness and encourage people to seek help in tackling mental health challenges.

Jeremy Yipp, CCI General Manager, General Insurance Claims and Chair of CCI Giving, said that they are committed to providing rural Australians with greater access to mental health care.

“There are many stressors when it comes to mental health and, sadly, the pandemic has exacerbated these, particularly among young people living in rural areas who don’t have the same access to mental health services as those living in cities.

“There are key groups working on the ground, at the local level, who we want to ensure have the support to implement initiatives that they know will make a difference.

“We are always stronger when we work with others, and we are delighted to be extending our relationship with FRRR. I know that working closely with FRRR is vital to the impact and effort of the many organisations who are supporting communities and people who are at risk of mental ill health. Five years and additional funds is something to really celebrate,” said Mr Yipp.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that this commitment from CCI Giving provides much-needed certainty to rural Australia.

“Historically, remote, rural and regional communities across Australia haven’t had the equity of access to the mental health and wellbeing resources that they need. With the added pressure of the challenges that these communities have faced in recent years, access to these kinds of services is now more crucial than ever before.

“Our Heartbeat of Rural Australia survey showed that as a result of consecutive natural disasters and the pandemic, there has been lowered resilience, increased fatigue and stress, and high levels of mental health illnesses in rural communities. CCI Giving’s commitment of increased grant funds and the certainty of it being on offer for the next five years, provides these communities with security and greater access to funding for community mental health projects that can have a profound impact for those involved.

“At FRRR, we have loved working alongside CCI Giving, providing support and tools to these vital, community-led initiatives. We couldn’t be more delighted to announce the five-year extension of our work together,” Ms Egleton said.

The next round of IAGP grant applications will open 20 April 2022. To find out more about this program go to https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/in-a-good-place.

This case study is courtesy of the Gardiner Dairy Foundation

A new teen fitness program in Kyabram is inspiring community spirit and building fit and healthy bodies.

A health and wellbeing centre has been established by Kyabram Blue Light at the town’s P-12 College, thanks to $5,000 from the Gardiner Dairy Foundation Community Grants Program in partnership with Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR).

The centre has proven to be a holiday hit with local teenagers and will be used regularly during the school year.

It is part of the KyFit police and teen gym-based mentoring program and, according to organiser Senior Constable Mitchell Bull, the benefits are wide-ranging.

Teenagers have played a central role in establishing the gym in an old storeroom at the school.

“The kids have done the majority of it,” Senior Constable Bull said. “They put together a wish list of equipment, posters and information and then volunteered on weekends to load trailers and remove rubbish and then helped in designing the layout and setting up and testing the equipment.

“It’s not just given to them on a silver platter – it’s a community effort and we all chip in. For six or seven weekends in a row we had up to 10 kids at the gym helping out. We removed six trailer loads of rubbish from the storeroom.”

The gym includes two bench presses, two rowing machines, two magnetic resistance bikes, two treadmills, two decline sit-up benches, sets of dumbbells from 3kg to 10kg and 13 spin bikes for classes.

The Gardiner Foundation grant also helped with installing fans, electrical power points and tiles for the floor.

“We made every cent count and called in favours left, right and centre and had a lot of volunteer assistance with everything,” Senior Constable Bull said. “It’s nothing fancy but it’s equipment tailored to young people.”

The gym is the latest development in the KyFit program that started in 2019 and is run by Kyabram Blue Light using police members, volunteers and community members.

“It was identified there was a need for a sporting or physical program that didn’t require the time, cost and travel commitments of the likes of football or netball,” Senior Constable Bull said.

“The gym will help those who may not have the opportunity to be involved in the local gyms or sports clubs.”

Personal trainers, defence force members, police and other community members help with the program, ensuring young people can access a variety of training programs ranging from boxing to swimming sessions and pitting their abilities against the police fitness test challenge.

A weekly in-school program attracts at least 13 participants and after-school programs are reaching about 30 teenagers. The school also uses the facilities for physical education classes.

Kyabram teen fitness program inspires community spirit

Senior Constable Bull said the grant had helped to empower local young people. “We used the gym over the school holidays, allowing kids to drop in when there wasn’t much else to do – we can barely keep up with the demand,” he said.

“A lot of kids want to join the program now because they’ve seen the benefits the others are getting. It’s helping with their physical and mental health and the kids are seeing the benefits of physical activity and working out with other people.”

Police can also use the fitness programs to help break down barriers between officers and young people.

“The kids get the benefits of getting to know local police and other volunteers and mentors,” Senior Constable Bull said. “It’s about building a relationship between police officers and young people and showing we’re approachable if there is a problem in the community that needs to be discussed.”

It’s also beneficial for police. “It means we’re not always seeing the negative side of things in the community and we get to work towards positivity,” Senior Constable Bull said.

The program is free for local teenagers who also receive a free sports top when they get involved.

In recognition of his work with young people, Senior Constable Bull was named Citizen of the Year for Campaspe Shire at the 2022 Australia Day Awards.

Now in its 20^th year, the Gardiner Dairy Foundation Community Grants Program is delivered by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR). Grants of up to $5,000 help not-for-profit organisations in small Victorian dairy communities deliver projects that will benefit local people and strengthen their ability to deal with local issues and enhance existing community infrastructure.

Applications for the 2022 program opened on 1 March and close on 13 April. More information can be found at https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/gardiner-communities-grants/

FRRR has today welcomed the extension of DGR-1 status for the country’s Community Foundations, in particular those in regional areas, which was confirmed in Tuesday night’s Budget announcements. This special status means that from 1 July, they can directly receive tax deductible donations from a broader range of donors to support more place-based philanthropy, which FRRR has long-championed.

HEADING: FRRR welcomes extension of DGR1 to Rural Community Foundations
IMAGE: Group shot of community group members with their hands in the air

Place-based approaches are critical, especially given the compounding impacts of back to back disasters and the challenges and opportunities in each community. They allow local people to prioritise resources to deliver outcomes that they know will make the most impact, taking account of the unique circumstances of every place.

For the rural and regional communities that have a local Community Foundation that is a member of Community Foundations Australia, this legislative change will mean that they will soon be able to directly accept tax deductible donations to channel toward their local community needs, as well as give to local community organisations that do not have DGR-1 status.

FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton, says that this reform paves the way for much-needed additional local giving, and that FRRR will continue to support rural communities across Australia to address local and regional issues.

“FRRR was established in 2000 through a partnership between the Australian Government and philanthropy to facilitate long-term and flexible funding to reach and stay in remote, rural and regional communities. In fact, we were set up to address many of the issues raised in the Pride of Place Inquiry, which recommended this DGR extension. We have long championed the important role of place-based philanthropy and indeed, have channelled more than $135 million to in excess of 12,000 projects to support local projects in remote, rural and regional Australia.

“Of this, more than $22 million has gone to support Community Foundations, with some $6 million via the 22 Community Foundations that we have partnered with through a Community Foundation Account. We are proud to have been able to help these Foundations raise and distribute those funds, and to have played a key role in the establishment, development, and promotion of the sector as a whole. We welcome this legislative reform, which will enable even more funding to be channelled locally,” Ms Egleton said.

Over the coming months, FRRR will work closely with the 19 Community Foundations that currently hold Community Foundation Fundraising Accounts and are in a position to take advantage of this legislative reform.

“FRRR will continue to back regional Community Foundations and to facilitate funding and collaborations for other remote, rural, and regional not-for-profits and community groups to advance resilient, vibrant, sustainable regional communities. Our role in connecting resources and supporting the capacity of local leaders and not-for-profit organisations, and having a long-term focus in our work, will remain a key pillar of FRRR’s work.”

Community Foundations Australia commented that “FRRR has been the engine room for the development of Community Foundations in regional Australia, where four out of five of these Foundations operate. This reform may change how we work with each other, but it does not change our shared ambition of working together to support regional community development. Our sector as a whole very much looks forward to building on our well established relationship with FRRR for mutual benefit.”

For more information on the services that FRRR offers, visit www.frrr.org.au.

Local community groups and not-for profit organisations in remote, rural and regional NSW are being offered grants to boost preparedness for future pandemics and other disasters.

Woman unloading fruit box out of the back of a van

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the program, funded by the NSW Government, was established to strengthen groups that have played a critical role in supporting communities throughout COVID-19.

“These grants are being offered through the Resilience NSW COVID Regional Community Support (CRCS) program and are administered by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR),” Ms Cooke said.

“Grants of up to $50,000 will be awarded toward regional capacity building initiatives such as those that attract and retain volunteers and staff, train to enhance governance skills, build digital capacity and create partnerships that foster stronger, more resilient communities.”

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that regional organisations in NSW have gone above and beyond for their communities during the pandemic, especially when for many it was also on top of floods, fires and the mouse plague.

“Remote, rural and regional community groups and not-for-profits really stepped up in what were extraordinary times. We take our hats off to them for how they have persevered, especially in the face of so many challenges.

“The findings of our Heartbeat of Rural Australia study last year highlighted that many community groups were really fatigued and able to operate at only a fraction of their usual capacity. They were struggling to find volunteers and staff, and while many groups turned online, the digital divide that exists between urban areas and regional areas became really apparent, as did several other capacity constraints.

“This program has been designed in partnership with the NSW Government to enable community groups to address these issues and fill the gaps that became more evident during the pandemic. We know that every community is different, so it’s deliberately flexible and will support community groups to be better prepared in future,” Ms Egleton said.

To find out what can be funded through the capacity building stream, and to apply, visit https://frrr.org.au/ResNSW-Covid-Support.

Applications close 5pm AEST on Friday 29 April 2022.

Four local NFPs awarded grants

In partnership with the Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation, FRRR has awarded a further $50,293 to support four not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) in the Bay & Basin area. Bay & Basin NFPs have now received nearly $150,000 to date through the Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program, which is helping to address locally-identified priorities.

Heading: Further $50,000 investment in Bay & Basin not-for-profits. IMAGE: Bay and Basin group shot.

The IRCF program is a multi-year program designed to foster collaboration between local NFPs and strengthen their capacity, so they can continue to have a positive impact on the vibrancy and wellbeing of their communities. The program operates across the South Coast region, and in three other locations across NSW.

As part of the IRCF program, local leaders participated in community meetings and created a roadmap of the future opportunities they envision for their communities. This helped to identify the areas where the community groups and NFPs need support and ensures that the solutions being provided through the program are community-led.

The four funded projects cover various areas including strategy development, resilience training, equipment upgrades and human resources. One example is the Huskisson Op Shop who are engaging a paid Coordinator to support the Op Shop Volunteers, as well as a Business Advisor, who will help to modernise the Op Shop to support their food pantry in St Georges Basin.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that multi-year programs, like IRCF, are vital for these remote, rural and regional communities.

“The NFPs in Bay & Basin play a big role when it comes to the quality of life for people living in these communities. Local leaders know what will work, so our role is to support them to create locally-led solutions that can be implemented over a series of years. This ensures that these communities thrive long into the future,” Ms Egleton said.

David Impey, CEO Community Enterprise Foundation, the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s charitable arm, said that the grant recipients are committed to developing all aspects of their organisations.

“It’s inspiring to see these people who are willing to take such a multi-faceted approach when it comes to building resilient communities. Through this program they’re developing their skills, strengthening their relationships with their peers, improving their processes and engaging in some really productive conversations.

“These organisations are powerful advocates for their communities. We’re very thankful to be able to support their efforts in creating sustainable and long-term solutions that will see the lives of everyone in Bay & Basin made that much more vibrant,” Mr Impey said.

The four projects being funded are:

Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association Inc, Vincentia – Prepare, Develop, Publish and Regularly Update the Vincentia Ratepayers and Resident Association 2030 Strategic Vision Document – $7,000
Sussex Inlet District Chamber of Commerce Incorporated, Sussex Inlet – Sussex Inlet, a Vibrant Future- Building the capacity of our communitythrough resilience training and by developing a marketing campaign – $3,900
Sanctuary Point Community Pride Incorporated, Sanctuary Point – Boosting Pride by fostering community engagement and enhancing organisational capacity through the development of a website, communications strategy, and accounting software – $10,309
UCA – Bay & Basin, St Georges Basin – Growing the Husky Op-shop by building organisational capacity to enable a stable of aligned social enterprises – $29,084.

In addition to Bay & Basin, the IRCF South Coast program is also working in Nowra, Batemans Bay and Ulladulla, with the support of The Snow Foundation and 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/.

First responder organisations encouraged to apply for funding to strengthen their emergency response capabilities

FRRR is encouraging eligible groups to apply to its Volunteer Emergency Services Fund (VESF) program to support local volunteer emergency services groups and first responder organisations in communities affected by the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires.

HEADING: Grants available for Volunteer Emergency Services in Black Summer impacted areas
IMAGE: Tionee Rural Fire Brigade

Thanks to the generous contribution of a private donor, grants of up to $25,000 are available to strengthen local emergency response capabilities, based on identified community need and priorities, including to support volunteers’ wellbeing and mental health.

The VESF grants are available to local volunteer emergency services groups and first responder organisations in eligible fire-affected communities across the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria.

Danielle Griffin, FRRR’s Philanthropic Services Manager – Corporate, said that funding from this grant program had already provided much-needed support, funding 54 projects across 66 communities.

“We have seen local groups upgrade their equipment and infrastructure, improve their service to communities and enhance support for their volunteers.

“This funding is a timely reminder that these communities need continued support and investment. The funding will contribute to remote, rural and regional communities’ confidence in the capacity and capability of their local volunteer first responder and emergency services groups to implement solutions for adapting to changing conditions and planning for future disasters. The volunteers themselves are critical to these outcomes and we encourage projects that build not only the skills of this unpaid workforce but wellbeing support to sustain their efforts.

“Many of these communities have endured multiple disasters in recent years, including the current floods. We encourage any groups impacted by the Black Summer fires who are also affected by recent flooding to get in touch and discuss their needs so we can support applications being developed in these difficult conditions,” Ms Griffin said.

The VESF grant program is now open. Applications close 5pm AEST 28 April 2022, with grants to be announced in July 2022. You can find out more about the program at: https://frrr.org.au/volunteer-emergency-services-fund-grant-program/

117 community-led projects funded

One hundred and seventeen projects set to strengthen small remote, rural and regional communities across Australia have received a much-needed boost, with the community-driven initiatives sharing in $1,382,453 in grants.

HEADING: Rural communities awarded a $1.4 million boost
IMAGE: Roger Edwards, presenting a talk at the Celebrating Red Gum Forum. in Cavendish.

Funded through FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program these grants support projects led by local people in small communities throughout the country.

In this round of funding, 59 Black Summer bushfire recovery initiatives are sharing $894,313 in grants for recovery and preparedness projects. This includes expanding the iconic Horsepower Highway tourist trail to kickstart Gnowangerup’s local economy in WA by adding two new installations, and installing a kitchen at the Big Swamp Community Centre in Coomunga, SA to support the community during future bushfire events.

There are also 58 projects spread across Australia sharing in $488,140 in this round of grants through the Small & Vital stream. These grants range from $1,595 to improve internet access for the local museum and its volunteers in Chiltern, VIC, through to a $10,000 grant for filmmaking workshops in Wilcannia, NSW.

Jill Karena, Place Portfolio Lead at FRRR, said that as COVID lockdown restrictions have eased and communities adapt to a new COVID normal, people are eager to connect, engage, celebrate and recover, but they are also keen to ensure that their community is stronger and more resilient for what may come.

“Our Heartbeat of Rural Australia study last year highlighted that among the biggest challenges for people was not being able to connect, so it was no surprise that many of the applications we saw in this round of SRC were about bringing people together. This ranges from making facilities more comfortable and welcoming, such as air conditioners or new furniture, to better IT equipment, internet connections or communication tools to engage with their communities. We have also seen some wonderful arts-based projects, which again bring people together, especially for those who were affected by the Black Summer bushfires.

“Underlying most of the requests however is a desire to be stronger in the future – to be more resilient. Sadly, some of those communities that are receiving grants, have felt the effects of another disaster. For those who have to put their projects on hold because of the floods, we understand. FRRR will be here to work with you, and if there is now a higher priority for your community, do get in touch as we are keen to assist,” Ms Karena said.

Some of the 117 funded projects include:

Richmond Valley Council – Rappville, NSW – Supporting Community Recovery by Honouring Rappville’s Military History – Commemorate sacrifices of Rappville community with replacement of WWI, WWII and Vietnam War Honour Rolls destroyed in fires. $25,000 (Bushfire Recovery)
Red Dust Role Models Limited – Nauiyu, NT – Red Dust Community Art Collaboration – Strengthen community and support healing with the creation of three murals celebrating and connecting community to culture. $5,000 (Small & Vital)
Muckadilla Community Association Inc – Muckadilla, QLD – All-abilities Access to Muckadilla Community Hall – Provide access to the Muckadilla Community Hall for all by installation of a disability access ramp and safety handrails. $10,000 (Small & Vital)
Peterborough History Group SA Incorporated – Peterborough, SA – Wiring Upgrade for YMCA – Provide a safe environment for volunteers and support visitor engagement through the upgrade of electrical wiring. $10,000 (Small & Vital)
Seymour Community Action Group Inc – Seymour, TAS – Seymour Community Wetland Restoration and Reclassification Project – Support volunteers to restore natural habitat and strengthen community connection to the environment through the development of a weed eradication project. $10,000 (Bushfire Recovery)
Brookton Community Inc – Brookton, WA – White Goods for New Shared Buildings – Increase community participation and capacity by fitting out kitchens in two new shared community buildings. $7,370 (Small & Vital)
Corryong College & Corryong Neighbourhood House Inc – Corryong, VIC – Enabling digital storytelling in the Upper Murray – Support college students to recover from a natural disaster through creative storytelling and technical skill development. $16,671 (Bushfire Recovery)

A full list of grant recipients is available on FRRR’s website.

The SRC program is collaboratively supported by many generous donors, which are acknowledged on FRRR’s website.

This program always accepts applications and thanks to recent support from the Australian Government, there is now a COVID-recovery stream – Rebuilding Rural Communities. Local NFPs and community groups are encouraged to review the expanded program guidelines and apply. More information about the SRC program is available at www.frrr.org.au/src.

To support grants like this through FRRR, make a tax-deductible donation at frrr.org.au/giving/.

The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
NEW SOUTH WALES
Bushfire Recovery
Adelong Patrol and Agricultural Society Inc.	Adelong Show: Bringing us Together Boost community connectedness and recovery from natural disasters by providing entertainment at Adelong Show event.	Adelong	$5,000
Black Head Surf Life Saving Club Inc.	Expansion of Disability Program and Inclusive Beach Access Support community bushfire recovery by expanding inclusive access for all, for beach attendees and surf life saving volunteers with the purchase of specialized equipment.	Hallidays Point	$10,470
Braidwood Community Arts Association Inc.	The Sustainable Farmedian Support capacity building and recovery of natural disasters by creating a documentary of Black Summer through experience of a sustainable farmer.	Braidwood	$24,840
Bundjalung Tribal Society	Youngman Creek Rehabilitation Volunteer Wellbeing Program Promote connection of place and culture, as well as rejuvenating and strengthening volunteerism through providing training and tools to support community recovery.	Alstonville	$9,997
Burra District Bushfire Brigade	Burra Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade Pergola Increase capacity for response to fire attacks via improving volunteers and firefighters' recuperation during rest breaks with building a pergola and providing shade for meal breaks.	Burra	$17,771
Burringbar School of Arts	Replacement of 15 Step Treads for Rear Stairway Access Strengthening disaster preparedness by rejuvenating place of gathering and mitigate safety risks by repairing stair treads of local community hall.	Burringbar	$8,284
CTC Robertson Inc.	Installation of Automatic Doors at CTC Near Disabled Access Supporting community recovery by enabling easier access to community building with removal of old heavy doors and replacement with automatic sliding doors.	Robertson	$6,180
Eden Creek Fairymount Preschool Inc.	Improved Space for Families and Children of Kyogle Encourage children's learning and development by increasing preschool space with building refurbishment that will support town recovery.	Kyogle	$25,000
Eurobodalla Shire Council	Eurobodalla Shower + Laundry Project for People Experiencing Homelessness Support community bushfire recovery by installing pay-wave system at three laundromats and provide vouchers through homelessness service providers.	Batemans Bay	$25,000
Fling Physical Theatre Inc.	Refurbishment of New Premises for FLING Physical Theatre to Deliver Inspiring Cultural Activity to the Region Encourage youth to be active and explore their creative potential through dance and performance with conversion of building to an inclusive dance studio space following the events of the Black Summer bushfires.	Bega	$25,000
Horse Sense for Humans Open Harts Inc.	Wellbeing With Horses Enable people to develop stress relieving, mental health and wellbeing techniques via equine assisted therapy sessions to support community recovery.	Mogendoura	$18,200
Kyogle Writers Festival Kyogle and District Arts Council	Kyogle Writers Festival 2022 (KWF2022) Boost local economy and support literary development with funding guest speakers for the Kyogle Writers Festival to support town recovery.	Kyogle	$10,000
Lawrence Historical Society Inc.	Fit Up for the Future To support community bushfire recovery with the restoration of historical artefacts and passing on woodworking and metal work skills to volunteers at the Lawrence Museum.	Lawrence	$7,796
Marlee Rural Fire Brigade	Marlee Fire Station Facilities Upgrade Provide a safe place for RFS staging areas and the small community of Marlee to evacuate to in the event of an emergency, with upgrade of facilities at the Marlee Fire Station and Hall complex.	Marlee	$11,600
Merriwa Preschool and Activity Centre Inc.	Forty for Flooring Improve hygiene and create a healthy play space by replacing ash impacted carpet with vinyl flooring at Merriwa Preschool & Activity Centre to support community recovery.	Merriwa	$25,000
Monaro Community Radio	Installation of a Solar PV system for Monaro Community Radio - 2MNO Support community recovery and to reduce 2MNO community radio's power bills and lower greenhouse gas emissions with installation of a 3.3kW solar system.	Cooma	$8,145
Mt Wilson and Mt Irvine Historical Society Inc.	Mount Wilson Historical Village Walk & Digital Archive Support community bushfire recovery by encouraging visitors and new arrivals to appreciate local history and understand the characters who have made the community what it is, with digital app featuring 22 local stories.	Mount Wilson	$10,000
Nambucca Valley Phoenix Ltd	Phoenix Rising - Fostering Resilience through Creative Communities Support and enhance community recovery through creative community activities with replacement of ageing ceramic kiln, flue and corroded roof.	Bowraville	$25,000
One Vision Productions Ltd.	MPOWER Online Education Engagement and Mental Health Toolkit and Mobile App Youth mental health and wellbeing support with tailored 12 month program in three schools and production of videos for subscription website service to support community recovery.	Clarence Valley	$25,000
Raise the heART Ltd.	Raise the heART - A Creative Arts Mental Health Project for 16-17 year-olds and the Broader Community Support bushfire recovery in the community by encouraging youth to participate in a year-long arts program, via creation of a youth-led theatrical performance, a youth wellbeing forum and a pop-up art exhibition.	Byron Bay	$10,000
Richmond Valley Council	Supporting Community Recovery by Honouring Rappville’s Military History Commemorate sacrifices of Rappville community with replacement of WWI, WWII and Vietnam War Honour Rolls destroyed in fires.	Rappville	$25,000
Rotary Club of Pambula Inc.	Community Support and Recovery through Music and Entertainment Support community recovery and engagement via entertainment events across fire-affected communities using the Sapphire Entertainment Pod.	Tathra	$25,000
Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens Ltd.	Picnic Setting for the Community in a Safe Environment Create a quiet space in nature, for contemplation and social gatherings with addition of picnic tables at Botanic Gardens to assist community recovery.	Bowral	$25,000
Taylors Arm Hall Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council	Taylors Arm Reunited - Kitchen Upgrade and Hall Interior Painting Support bushfire recovery by expanding the use of the community hall by painting hall interior, updating kitchen, and installing vermin proof cupboards to make the community meeting space more functional and suitable for holding workshops.	Taylors Arm	$16,950
The Lions Club of Tenterfield Inc.	Tenterfield Lions' Junior Choir Introduce children to the creative arts to foster a love of music and performing, with support for Children's Choir, following the Black Summer bushfires.	Tenterfield	$18,109
Tumut Regional Chamber of Commerce Inc.	Adventure Snowy Valleys Support bushfire recovery by diversifying local economy with the development of outdoor adventure tourism website.	Tumut	$25,000
UCA - Life Line Macarthur	Mental Health First Aid Training Build community capacity to support and respond to people experiencing stress and mental health problems with provision of mental health first aid training to support community recovery.	Wollondilly	$10,000
Yuin Folk Club Inc.	2022 Cobargo Folk Festival: Festival Restart Event Producer Reduce volunteer burnout and support recovery from fires, through revitalisation and renewal of Cobargo Folk Festival.	Cobargo	$25,000
Z-Net Uralla Inc.	Uralla Working on Waste (Uralla-WOW) Build capacity of local community to mitigate climate change challenges and support recovery from fires, and build a connected supported sustainable community, with community-led waste reduction strategies.	Uralla	$19,970
Small & Vital
A Sound Life Coonabarabran High School P&C Association	Sound Mentoring - Coonabarabran High School Inspire engagement and resilience by providing students of Coonabarabran High School with the transformative program 'Sound Mentoring'.	Coonabarabran	$9,900
Carcoar Village Assocation Inc.	Murals at the Belubula Increase opportunities for cultural connection and tourism through printing and installation of four murals by revered Indigenous artist Aunty Nyree Reynolds onto pylons on the Mid-Western Highway	Carcoar	$10,000
Contact Inc.	Making the Wanaaring Community Hub Happen Revitalise the very remote community of Wanaaring by supporting the development of a new community hub.	Wanaaring	$9,577
Forbes Public School P&C Association Inc.	Community Conservation Corner Increase community participation and resilience through supporting the establishment of a Community Conservation Corner at Forbes Public School.	Forbes	$10,000
Holbrook Community Garden Greater Hume Shire Council	Relocation of Holbrook Community Garden Increase usability and sustainability of a much loved community garden by providing new garden beds, watering system and fruit trees.	Holbrook	$8,555
Holbrook Meals on Wheels Service Inc.	Safe Food Service Boost food security and support the elderly to live independently by purchasing a freezer van for Holbrook Meals on Wheels.	Holbrook	$10,000
Macleay Valley Arts Council Inc.	South West Rocks Community Art Gallery Boost cultural vibrancy and tourism by supporting South West Rocks Community Art Gallery to display artworks from local and regional artists in a professional and engaging manner.	South West Rocks	$10,000
Murrumbidgee Landcare Association Inc.	Creating a Community Garden in Carrathool - Knowledge Sharing About People, Place and the Environment Promote environmental health and sustainability through bringing the community together to build a Community Native Garden.	Carrathool	$9,886
Shine for Kids	Belonging To Family Community Engagement Build a stronger social fabric by supporting Aboriginal people who are released from custody at the Mid-North Coast Correctional Centre to re-connect successfully with their families and community.	Kempsey	$9,950
Warren Chamber Music Festival Inc.	Oldies Only! Provide opportunities for social connection and cultural enrichment by supporting Warren Chamber Music Festival to deliver an "Oldies Only" music event for the elderly in Warren, NSW.	Warren	$5,095
West Darling Arts	Film Making Workshop for the Wilcannia Students Unlock opportunities for career pathways and increase cultural vibrancy through providing filmmaking workshops for students in Wilcannia.	Wilcannia	$10,000
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Small & Vital
Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation	Reconnection through Songlines – Healing People, Healing Country Encourage youth involvement and grow cultural knowledge through three bush camps to learn and then perform two traditional Corroboree Dances - the Wanga and the Lirriga Dances.	Katherine	$10,000
Ngukurr Language Centre Aboriginal Corporation	Resourcing Equipment for Ngukurr Language Centre Help students and broader community to learn and retain traditional languages with the purchase of a printer for the Ngukurr Language Centre.	Ngukurr	$4,785
Red Dust Role Models Ltd.	Red Dust Community Art Collaboration Strengthen community and support healing with the creation of three murals celebrating and connecting community to culture.	Nauiyu	$5,000
The Trustee for Karrkad-Kanjdji Trust	Expanding Remote Bi-cultural Education Fostering connection to language and education on Country through the provision of IT at remote bi-lingual schools in Arnhem Land.	Manmoyi	$10,000
Tiwi Enterprises Ltd.	Essential Machinery and Equipment for Tiwi Enterprises Garden Maintenance Team Expand the services of a garden maintenance program to better protect the community against bushfires with purchase of whipper snippers and mower.	Wurrumiyanga	$10,000
QUEENSLAND
Bushfire Recovery
Beaudesert Quilters Group Inc.	Quilters Crafting 4 Community Build capacity of local art and craft group by supporting attendance at specialised workshops and purchase of equipment upgrades to support community recovery.	Beaudesert	$5,500
Boonah & District Landcare Association Inc.	Website for Boonah and District Landcare Inc. Support community fire preparedness by broadening the networking reach and information sharing through developing online presence and website for Boonah and District Landcare.	Boonah	$9,525
Boonah Activity Shed Inc.	Construction Earthworks for New Activity Shed Supporting community bushfire recovery by supporting the foundational works for a community shed and gathering space, by providing earthworks equipment hire.	Boonah	$5,379
Destination Scenic Rim Inc.	Farm Gate Trail Empower community-led initiatives through providing event resources and entertainment for regional farm trail event to support community recovery.	Boonah	$25,000
Happy Chat Support Groups Queensland Inc.	Happy Chat Peer Support for Mental Health in Stanthorpe Strengthen mental health peer to peer support group by engaging with therapeutic services to support community bushfire recovery.	Stanthorpe	$6,400
Kanyini Connections Ltd.	Pony Tales Program Strengthen community recovery by enabling vulnerable children to improve their literacy skills by providing volunteer mentors with teaching resources.	Doonan	$2,000
Killarney Show and Rodeo Society Inc.	Purchase Lawn Mower Increase volunteer safety and bushfire preparedness through purchase of a ride on mower.	Killarney	$10,000
Rotary Club of Beaudesert Inc.	Acquire Lawn Mowing and Grounds Maintenance Equipment and Storage to Enhance Places Where Communities Gather Enhance capacity of volunteers and community spaces by purchasing garden maintenance equipment and storage to support recovery within the community.	Beaudesert	$4,597
Small & Vital
Atherton Tablelands SAO Cycle Riding Tablelands Outdoor Recreation Association Inc.	The Seven Sisters Trail - Stage One Boost tourism and build on the community's sense of place by providing informative, interpretive and safety signs for the Seven Sisters Trail in Yungaburra.	Yungaburra	$8,000
Bowen Old People's Home Society	Our Yarning Circle Enhance residents’ opportunities to connect with their culture, each other and the wider community by installing a Yarning Circle at Murroona Gardens aged care facility.	Bowen	$8,000
C&K Jellybean The Creche and Kindergarten Association Ltd.	Reviving Our Outdoor Learning Program at C&K Jellybeans Support lifelong learning by replacing worn out outdoor children's equipment and provide new outdoor tables and mats for children to enjoy meals and activities outside the classroom.	Alpha	$6,497
Creative Country Association Inc.	Point of Sale (POS) Equipment Support the establishment of the Murgon Creative Centre by providing Point of Sale equipment and volunteer T-shirts.	Murgon	$10,000
Eacham Community Help Organisation Inc.	Tech Training for Volunteer Tutors Accelerate digital access and inclusion for vulnerable and disadvantaged community members by training volunteers to provide technological support.	Malanda	$3,980
Gayndah and District Tennis Association Inc.	Upgrade Outdoor Furniture and Clubhouse Appliances Increase useability and functionality of the Gayndah and District Tennis Club by contributing to upgrading outdoor seating and purchase of new appliances.	Gayndah	$4,000
Gungarde Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation	Cooktown Youths Super Heroes Develop youth life skills and reduce harms related to alcohol, drugs and bullying by supporting the delivery of the Cooktown Youths Super Heroes program.	Cooktown	$8,500
Hope Reins Inc.	Connecting Communities, Strengthening Lives: The Horse Ride from Gympie to Longreach Strengthen community resilience and social inclusion through supporting a mental health awareness program.	Nanango	$10,000
Innisfail & District Men's Shed Inc.	Fence Repairs at the Innisfail & District Men's Shed (IDMS) Encourage community cohesion and increase functionality of the Innisfail & District Men's Shed by repairing the boundary fence.	Innisfail	$7,000
Maleny and District Men's Shed Inc.	Provision and Installation of a Water Tank and Pump for the New Community Shed for Maleny Men’s Shed Build capacity to support volunteer membership and strengthen community connections through the installation of a water tank.	Maleny	$3,000
Muckadilla Community Association Inc.	Disability Access to Muckadilla Community Hall Provide access to the Muckadilla Community Hall for all by installation of a disability access ramp and safety hand rails.	Muckadilla	$10,000
Numabulla Men's Shed Inc.	Numabulla Men's Shed Development Foster community engagement and connection through the renovation of a new facility for Numabulla Men's Shed.	Brooloo	$10,000
Performing Arts (Goondiwindi) Inc.	Gundy Gathering Build resilience and encourage participation in the arts by contributing to provision of youth performing arts boot camp, Gundy Gathering.	Goondiwindi	$4,690
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Bushfire Recovery
Big Swamp Community Centre Inc.	Upgraded Kitchenette Area Build capacity to support community during bushfire events through the installation of a kitchen at a community centre.	Coomunga	$21,025
Charleston Community Centre Inc.	POWERING Our Community Resilience Provide a fit for purpose emergency support facility and improve comfort of a community hall through the installation of a diesel run generator unit to support community recovery and preparedness.	Charleston	$25,000
Jabuk Community Hall Inc.	Mowing Down the Burden Support bushfire preparedness and increase community safety through purchase of a ride on mower.	Jabuk	$9,999
Price Soldiers Memorial Hall	Price Soldiers Memorial Hall Kitchen Upgrade Increase community connection and disaster preparedness by improving kitchen facilities at a community gathering space.	Price	$20,339
Small & Vital
Blanchetown District Hall Inc.	Health and Wellness for Women Boost health and social wellbeing of women in Blanchetown, through the continuation of a physical fitness class.	Blanchetown	$7,870
Community Care and Transport Inc.	Cloud Based Fully Integrated Telephone System Boost an organisation’s capability to support community health and wellbeing, through the upgrade of a telephone system.	Minlaton	$10,000
Crystal Brook Community Men's Shed Inc.	Responsible Power Solutions for the Crystal Brook Community Men's Shed Establish cost effective, environmental practices while supporting community health, through the installation of a solar storage system at a Men’s Shed.	Crystal Brook	$10,000
Peterborough History Group SA Inc.	Wiring Upgrade for YMCA Provide a safe environment for volunteers, supporting visitor engagement through the upgrade of electrical wiring.	Peterborough	$10,000
TASMANIA
Bushfire Recovery
Seymour Community Action Group Inc.	Seymour Community Wetland Restoration and Reclassification Project Promote community bushfire recovery by supporting volunteers to restore natural habitat and strengthen community connection to the environment through the development of a weed eradication project.	Seymour	$10,000
Small & Vital
Geeveston Community Centre Inc.	Scrubby Hill Farm Amenity Improvements Enhance food security, provide employment opportunities, and support the health and wellbeing of communities through the development of a micro-farm project.	Geeveston	$9,419
The RESEED Centre Live Well Tasmania	YOUth LEADing Tasmania (YLT) 2022 Support youth engagement and build leadership skills through a facilitation training program encouraging young people to challenge world issues.	Penguin	$10,000
VICTORIA
Bushfire Recovery
Albury Wodonga Regional Foodshare	FoodShare Cloud Project Support community recovery by boosting organisational capacity of a food relief organisation through implementing a customer relationship management system.	Wodonga	$9,944
Bairnsdale Recycling Enterprise Inc.	Bairnsdale Repair Café: Reaching Out Foster opportunities for social connection and skill development for bushfire-impacted communities across East Gippsland.	Bairnsdale	$18,873
Better Place Australia	Watercolor Workshops for Recovery, Reconnection & Referral Encourage people to come together to recover from bushfires and gain access to support services through creative arts workshops.	Benambra	$25,000
Bright Court House Committee of Management	Bright Court House Portable Staging Upgrade Supporting local arts events through the purchase of a portable stage for indoor and outdoor productions, to support community recovery.	Bright	$10,000
Bright Croquet Club Inc.	New Tables and Chairs for Club House Provide a fit-for-purpose facility and support community connectedness and bushfire recovery through the upgrade of furniture.	Bright	$2,500
Cabbage Tree Public Hall	Governance Training for Cabbage Tree Creek and Bemm River Foster a more participative community and improve organisational capacity in two local committees through the delivery of governance training in the bushfire-affected area.	Cabbage Tree Creek	$6,115
Corryong College Corryong Neighbourhood House Inc.	Enabling Digital Storytelling in the Upper Murray Support college students to recover from a natural disaster like bushfire, through creative storytelling and technical skill development.	Corryong	$16,671
Deddick Valley Isolated Community Group Inc.	Building Healthy and Resilient Communities Through Service Equity Building capacity to access healthcare in remote bushfire-impacted areas through a research and pilot program in far East Gippsland.	Tubbut	$24,680
Great Alpine Gallery Inc.	The Voice of Video Encourage community to be active and creative, while recovering from disaster through a video sharing platform.	Swifts Creek	$3,729
Happy Valley Hall	Tank Fantasia Foster social connectedness and community cohesion through a mosaic arts project at the Happy Valley Hall to support community recovery.	Rosewhite	$4,500
Harrietville Historical Society	Revitalising Harrietville's Heritage Encourage visitation and strengthen the local economy through the installation of signage interpreting local history in Harrietville that will support bushfire recovery within the community.	Harrietville	$16,700
Jingellic Hub Inc.	Postcards From The Past @Jingellic & Postcards From The Past @Walwa Support bushfire recovery within the area by fostering community connection to local history and expand opportunities for tourists and visitors to the region.	Walwa	$25,000
Parklands Albury Wodonga Ltd.	Improving Accessibility to Upper Murray Historic Trestle Bridge Reserves Provide safe infrastructure for emergency services and the broader community through the upgrade of an historic trestle bridge to improve disaster preparedness.	Berringama	$21,000
The Man from Snowy River Bush Festival Inc.	Upper Murray Agricultural Field Days Strengthen community recovery and encourage people to come together and access support by enhancing entertainment at the inaugural Upper Murray Agricultural Field Days.	Corryong	$24,859
Small & Vital
Boolarra Men's Shed Inc.	Shed Extension Support men’s health and social connection opportunities through the expansion of the Boolarra Men’s Shed building.	Boolarra	$10,000
Boolite Recreation & Public Hall Reserve	Upgrade of Amenities Block Improve accessibility and amenities at a local hall and reserve through the installation of an all-abilities bathroom and toilet.	Boolite	$9,000
Carinya Lodge Homes Inc.	Carinya Dementia Care Enhance social wellbeing and health of people living in aged care by providing a dementia-specific interactive games program.	Korumburra	$10,000
Chiltern Athenaeum Museum	Extension of Data Cabling and Internet Connection from Chiltern Athenaeum Museum to the John McEwen Annexe Enhance an organisation's capacity to support volunteers and preserve local history through providing an internet connection.	Chiltern	$1,595
Cobram Community House Inc.	Community Kitchen Upgrade Expand the use of a community house by refurbishing a kitchen to increase the capacity to deliver educational and wellbeing activities.	Cobram	$10,000
Djerriwarrh Employment & Education Services Inc.	Moorabool TAC L2P Program Vehicle Replacement Upskill youth to improve access to employment, further education, and social services through the purchase of a vehicle for a learner driver program in the Moorabool Shire.	Moorabool	$10,000
Dunolly & District Neighbourhood Centre Inc.	Dunolly Neighbourhood Centre Backyard Rejuvenation Increase community learning opportunities by installing shade sails in an outdoor area at the Dunolly & District Neighbourhood Centre.	Dunolly	$6,096
Fight Cancer Foundation Ltd.	Shepparton Accommodation for Regional and Remote Cancer Patients Support rural community members to access vital medical treatment through the establishment of affordable outpatient accommodation.	Shepparton	$10,000
Hallston Mechanics Institute Inc.	Hallston Hall Door and Window Replacement - Repair and Paint Expand the use of a community owned hall and preserve the district's history through the replacement of timber windows.	Hallston	$7,706
Hopetoun and District Men's Shed Hopetoun & District Neighbourhood House Inc.	Replacement of Asbestos Shed Provide a safe environment, creating opportunities for men to engage and support skill development by installing a new shed and undercover work area.	Hopetoun	$9,550
Jarvis Creek Landcare Group Mitta to Murray Landcare Inc.	Revitalisation of the Jarvis Creek Community Strengthen community connection and volunteer engagement through the restoration of the Jarvis Creek Hall.	Jarvis Creek	$10,000
Lions Club of Katamatite Inc.	Katamatite Lions Silo Art Project Strengthen cultural connection and the local economy through the installation of two art trail murals in Katamatite.	Katamatite	$9,667
Minyip and District Historical Society Inc.	Replacement of Heritage Plaques in Minyip Celebrate local culture, and boost community engagement and tourism in Minyip by installing historic plaques within the township.	Minyip	$4,700
Moorabool Shire Council	Power Back Up for STAND Project Sites Increase community safety and disaster preparedness through the purchase of batteries to support satellite infrastructure.	Dunnstown	$4,640
Murtoa and District Historical Society Inc.	Murtoa Museum Website Design & Build Increase access to local history, support volunteers and boost community participation by establishing a website.	Murtoa	$9,362
Tarnagulla Urban Fire Brigade Country Fire Authority	Solar and Battery Installation at Tarnagulla Urban Fire Brigade Boost a fire brigade’s ability to respond to future disasters by installing a solar power and battery system to provide a backup in case of power failures.	Tarnagulla	$10,000
Trust for Nature (Victoria)	Fostering Local Community Connection with Nature - Henriksen Sanctuary, Apollo Bay Increase community wellbeing and connection with nature through the construction of pedestrian tracks at a significant conservation reserve.	Apollo Bay	$10,000
Winchelsea Community House Inc.	Expansion into Shire Hall Improve employment opportunities for youth through the purchase of new kitchen equipment for a community café.	Winchelsea	$9,000
Yackandandah Creek Landcare Group Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups Inc.	Connecting Community with Wetlands for Wellbeing, Culture and Learning Boost the community’s ability to learn about conservation management and increase connection to place through the development of wetlands.	Yackandandah	$5,750
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Bushfire Recovery
Denmark Community Foundation (WA) Inc.	Denmark Community Foundation Next Steps - A Transition Towards Building Capacity and Operational Potential Building organisational capacity and a strong bushfire resilient local community through the development of a strategic plan for the Denmark Community Foundation.	Denmark	$10,000
Katanning and Districts Pool Association Inc.	Pool Hall Revamp Support community bushfire recovery by providing a safe space for youth and community support clients to connect and socialise by installing a kitchen for meal preparation.	Katanning	$10,000
North Stirlings Pallinup Natural Resources Inc.	Fire Brigade & Landcare Representation on the Horsepower Highway Strengthen and kickstart the local economy impacted by bushfires by expanding an iconic tourist trail with two new installations.	Gnowangerup	$11,666
Small & Vital
Beemurra Aboriginal Corporation	Yued Youth & Astronomy Project on Yallalie Downs Encourage Indigenous youth's education and leadership skills through attending astronomy camps on Country.	Dandaragan	$10,000
Brookton Community Inc.	White Goods for New Shared Buildings Increase community participation and capacity by fitting out kitchens in two new shared community buildings.	Brookton	$7,370
Murlpirrmarra Connection Ltd.	Indigenous Tennis and Learning Program Increase educational outcomes for Indigenous youth by providing tennis clinics and educational support.	Wiluna	$10,000
Red Shed - Derby Women's Collective Shire of Derby West Kimberley	Red Shed: Derby Women's Collective Community Hub Enhance women's access to skills development opportunities through training opportunities and upgrades to their new facility.	Derby	$10,000

In this quarter’s update for FRRR’s donor partners, read about:

Flood recovery – how you can help
The long and short of bushfire recovery – FRRR’s approach to recovery following the Black Summer bushfires
Case study: Recovery in action in mighty Mallacoota
Insights from the bush
Donor spotlight: The Bertalli Family Foundation
Progress Report
Partnering opportunities: Victorian expansion of disaster resilience
Community partner spotlight: The Next Economy

Read our March 2022
Donor News

And support from new IRCF Program Manager and facilitator

Seven not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) are sharing in $135,471 for projects that will strengthen the NFP sector and inter-organisational relationships in Nowra, helping the community to thrive and achieve long-term stability. Nowra NFPs will also have on-the-ground support from a new South Coast Program Manager and local facilitator.

$135,000 funding boost for Nowra not-for-profits

Funded through FRRR’s Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program, in partnership with The Snow Foundation, these grants will allow Nowra NFPs to properly develop the tools, resources and skills they need to achieve longevity and create permanent change in their communities.

IRCF is a multi-year grassroots program aimed at building the capacity and connectedness of NFPs in select communities in regional New South Wales. As well as grants, these recipients will receive organisational support and coordination in the form of workshops that will help them to implement more effective systems, processes and training within their organisations.

Among the seven projects funded, there is a focus on developing leadership and business skills, technological transformation, cultural immersion and community engagement. These projects address needs highlighted through a community-led Roadmap, the development of which was facilitated by FRRR.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that these initiatives will have a lasting impact on the people of Nowra.

“It’s fantastic to see the not-for-profit organisations in this round of grants collaborating and learning from their peers, and successfully applying that knowledge to the unique needs and circumstances of their own communities.

“It’s wonderful to see local organisations prioritising community engagement and creating safe cultural spaces. This includes the South Coast Women’s Health & Welfare Aboriginal Corporation, which is using their funding to deliver cultural immersion sessions to 30 Nowra NFP representatives in response to vision identified in the Nowra Community Roadmap,” Ms Egleton said.

Terry Snow, Founder of The Snow Foundation, said partnering with FRRR has allowed his Foundation to have a significant impact on regional NSW areas such as Nowra.

“Having a home and running a business on the South Coast, I understand how important it is to support these not-for-profit organisations. They provide crucial support and fill gaps that help to keep these communities vibrant and self-sufficient. With the resources provided by this program, these organisations will create real change.

“A great example of this is the Nowra Community Food Store, which is using their grant to set up an E-commerce website with an option for contactless delivery, so that families in the Shoalhaven region who don’t own a car can still access fresh food.”

The five other grant recipients in the Nowra region are:

Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Aboriginal Corporation, Nowra – Laying the Foundations for the Future of Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Aboriginal Corporation – Support the Centre’s future vision and rapid growth by appointing a temporary Community Centre Team Leader to support the CEO in an operational capacity. $30,000
Nowra Sub-Branch of the Returned and Services League of Australia New South Wales Branch, Nowra – Nowra RSL Sub-Branch Upgrade Project 2021 – Accelerate digital transformation and enhance client experience through upgrades to IT equipment and furniture. $16,469
Shoalhaven Community Preschool Inc, Nowra – The Growth Strategy Project – Strengthen the leadership capacity of the Centre during the Preschool’s relocation and expansion by providing a wage subsidy, expert consultants and professional development. $22,000
Shoalhaven Health and Arts Inc, Bomaderry – Capacity Building for SHAA’s Future – Strengthen the capacity of SHAA to respond to community demand for their mental health, arts and events programs by paying wages for the currently volunteer-based managers. $14,112
South Coast Beef Producers Association Inc, Nowra – Governance Training for South Coast Beef Management Committee Members – Strengthen the governance and strategic vision of South Coast Beef through the training of the management committee in governance foundations. $10,590

New IRCF Program Manager – South Coast and Nowra facilitator

Helping Nowra’s NFPs to make the most of the IRCF program is IRCF South Coast’s recently appointed Program Manager, and South Coast local, Carolyn Ardler.

Carolyn comes to FRRR and the IRCF program with extensive experience in place-based delivery to support communities to build capacity and reach their aspirations from the grassroots.

“I am excited to be working on the IRCF program as I strongly believe rural and regional communities have the solutions and strength within them to face their unique challenges. This program allows small not for profits to build their capacity and be more sustainable in the long term.” Ms Ardler said.

Carolyn steps into her new position as Kate Dezarnaulds, FRRR’s previous Program Manager for IRCF South Coast, transitions into the role of IRCF facilitator for Nowra. In this role, Kate will be able to work more directly with Nowra NFPs to connect, build relationships and work together to improve their capacity and sustainability.

In addition to Nowra, the IRCF South Coast program is also working in Batemans Bay and Ulladulla with the support of The Snow Foundation, and in Bay & Basin with the support of Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation, and 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/.

FRRR has awarded $3,084,346 to 60 local not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) in remote, rural and regional Australia for grassroots initiatives that will build their community’s resilience to drought.

Funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and a range of other donor partners, the Networks to Build Drought Resilience program focuses on agriculture-dependent communities. It’s designed to give local NFPs access to the funds and resources they need to prepare and strengthen their community’s response to future drought and climate change.

This second round of grants, which range from $10,120 to $150,000, sees several First Nations organisations receiving grants. The successful groups include Outback Academy Australia Ltd, which has received a grant of $146,966 to strengthen drought resilience through collaborative Aboriginal networks across several states.

There is also more funding to help women in rural communities come together, with support for projects like the Rural Women’s Gathering 2022 in South Australia. Their $27,000 grant will help to build drought resilience by facilitating professional, social and community connections among women.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that this diversity in applications is what allows these programs to make a meaningful difference in local communities.

“We’ve seen community-led projects that address the needs of First Nations people, women and young people. It’s this kind of tailored approach, responding to the unique challenges of each place, that will enable these communities to build long-lasting networks to build their enduring ability to manage the future impacts of drought.”

Ms Egleton also said that despite facing many challenges, these local organisations are committed to building a better future for their communities in the long run.

“Local leaders are so impressive. Many groups were still dealing with the impacts of COVID lockdowns and restrictions, not to mention extreme weather events. These circumstances have left volunteers feeling very fatigued (as we confirmed in our Heartbeat of Rural Australia study last year), and yet these rounds saw proposals for great ideas and innovative projects put forward“.

“We’re proud to partner with the Australian Government on this program, and grateful for the additional funding we have received from our many other donors. These partnerships are vital when it comes to equipping grassroots organisations with the resources, they need to ensure their regions can thrive into the future,” said Ms Egleton.

Some more of the 60 initiatives, which are spread across every state and territory, include:

Tharwa Community Association Inc – Tharwa, ACT – Tharwa Community Hall Critical Repair and Remediation – $20,000 – This project will support crucial repairs for the Tharwa meeting hall. The hall is a central meeting place for local farming families and fosters connectedness and the community’s capacity to respond to future drought events.
Tamworth Regional Landcare Association – Wallabadah, NSW – Regenerative Practices on the Liverpool Plains: Learning & Working Together to Build Drought Resilience – $22,600 – This project will build drought resilience through two education events and a farm tour day to build understandings of risks posed by drought and climate change in agriculture-dependent communities of the Tamworth region. The project will encourage participants to shift from ‘season to season’ thinking to developing a long-term vision and plan which considers the impact of climate variability on their farming business.
Young Livestock Exporters Network – Darwin & Katherine, NT and Townsvillle, Qld – YLEN Leadership Program: Future-Proofing the Livestock Industry – $45,867 – This project will support educational opportunities through two training events, a leadership program and stockperson course, designed to bring rural youth together to discuss the impacts of difficult times, including drought. These events will enable the youth participants to discuss with industry experts, topics to understand the risks posed by drought, how to plan for and manage the risks, and stress, self-care and communication during difficult times, giving the participants tools that they can share with their communities, and draw on during difficult times, including times of drought.
Burnett Catchment Care Association – Monto, QLD – Connecting Monto producers to build resilience – $19,000 – This project will support hosting of three workshops on strategies to prepare for drought, sustainability practices and soil health during drought. Focussing on discussion about new information presented and sharing of ideas and experiences, the workshops will build locally relevant knowledge required to support the rural community’s response to the impacts of drought.
Tumby Bay Progress Association – Tumby Bay, SA – Improving Farmer Skills in Effective Communication and Digital Literacy, Lower Eyre Peninsula – $45,000 – This project will build drought resilience through enabling 50 locals to participate in a 16-week communication and literacy training program, focussed at building participants’ capacity to network with their communities, thus building participants’ readiness to face the impacts during times of drought. The project will support ongoing community engagement through an online networking tool for the community to continue sharing ideas and experiences to continue building connectedness and a shared sense of purpose.
Big Hart – Wynyard, TAS – The Watershed Project – $140,000 – This project will support community engagement events including three community dinners, a networking breakfast, two film screenings and two workshops across the North West coast of Tasmania to discuss topics such as water and eco anxiety, water and well-being, and water and local production. The events will be targeted across the local community to involve producers, local clubs, youth and businesses for the communities will work collaboratively to solve problems on environmental and agribusiness topics that are central to drought resilience at the local level.
Partners in Ag Incorporated – Rupanyup, VIC – Wimmera Rural Table Gathering – $28,608 – This project will support a full day event to bring rural women together to discuss the impacts of drought and a changing climate for the region. Including a panel discussion of industry experts, participants will be involved in discussions and learnings to understand the challenges faced by communities in times of drought and how community members can develop skills and strategies to deal with difficult times, including during times of drought.
Lower Blackwood Land Conservation District Committee – Karridale, WA – Lower Blackwood Online Community Forum & Information Hub – $49,850 – This project will build the community’s capacity to understand & implement sustainable agriculture objectives and drought resilience through an online Community Forum & Information Hub, which will provide an interactive platform to access information and resources with locally relevant information.