Nearly $1.3 million in grants awarded

21 August 2020: Thirty-six community-led projects that will help tackle the ongoing challenges faced by drought-affected communities across Australia are sharing in nearly $1.3 million in grants, through the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT) program.

The TTTT program helps local groups in rural, regional and remote communities Australia-wide tackle the effects of the drought by building capacity, reducing social isolation, developing leadership and skills training, improving social and educational participation, and stimulating economic activity.

Rural areas impacted by drought, such as Longreach in Queensland, have used previous TTTT grants to fund community-led projects such as education and training workshops to help drive employment opportunities; run free community events that bring people together to share their experiences; and upgrading community equipment and infrastructure that are used to provide safe places for people to come together to support one another through the ongoing effects of the drought.

Deanne Cavalier, TTTT Program Manager, said that the Tackling Tough Times Together program was specifically designed to help drought-affected communities to build on the strengths and resilience that exist within the community.

“Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we know local leaders still have ideas about how they can support their community, they just need someone to back their ideas. Thanks to our donor partners, FRRR is able to help local groups to seed and strengthen, adapt and evolve, and innovate and renew their community,” said Ms Cavalier.

“This round of TTTT really showed the impact that COVID-19 is having on the capacity of volunteers, as their focus turns towards their families and concerns of job security. This naturally has had flow-on effects on the capacity of community groups to maintain continuity of services and their ability to maintain momentum on community-focused projects. While this certainly limits resources, we want local groups to know that we are here to support them and will continue to back them as they find ways that they can best support their community,” said Ms Cavalier.

Some of the 36 projects awarded this round include:

• Sunset Strip Progress Association, NSW – Sunset Strip Boulevard Walk of Fame: Films and Stars of Outback Australia – $142,897 – Support local economic strength and renewal through the construction of the Sunset Strip Boulevard Walk of Fame to increase tourism numbers.
• Central West Farming Systems Incorporated, NSW – Tapping a natural resource – a rural and regional ‘remote’ workforce – $51,195 – Increase skills and capacity to work remotely through provision of tailored training program for individuals in Central West NSW.
• Charters Towers Women of the Outback Shed, QLD – Growing Space for Growing Needs – $36,702 – Increase the capacity and build the sustainability of the Charters Towers Women of the Outback Shed through construction of additional space to accommodate increased membership and activity.
• William Creek Gymkhana Committee, SA – Horsemanship Clinic & Get-Together for Children and the Wider Community – $18,090 – Reduce social isolation and provide an opportunity for social and educational participation through the delivery of a horsemanship clinic and get-together for children and the wider community.
• Manangatang Improvement Group, VIC – Cooking Up a Storm: Manangatang Hall Kitchen upgrade – $60,000 – Increase capacity to enhance community events at Manangatang Hall, by upgrading the kitchen.
• Condingup and Districts Recreation Association, WA – Condingup Community Centre Space for Kids – $60,000 – Support opportunities for social connection through construction of a skatepark at the Condingup Recreation Reserve.

Tackling Tough Times Together is possible thanks to the collaborative support of several donors, including the Australian Government which committed $15M to be distributed over three years. Generous contributions have also been made by Pratt Foundation, Stockland CARE Foundation, Paul Ramsay Foundation, The Snow Foundation, Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, Henroth Group and private donors from across the nation.

Applications for the TTTT program are always open and groups in drought-affected areas are encouraged to apply for funding to help their community come together to tackle the drought.

The cut-off dates for future rounds are:

• 27 August 2020. Outcomes will be advised late November 2020.
• 22 October 2020. (Note, Stage One for the $150,000 grant tier must be received by 10 September 2020.) Outcomes will be advised late February 2021.

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

Jump to : NSW | QLD | SA / VIC / WA

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
NEW SOUTH WALES
Up to $150,000
Sunset Strip Progress Association Incorporated	Sunset Strip Boulevard Walk of Fame – Films and Stars of Outback Australia Support local economic strength and renewal through the construction of the Sunset Strip Boulevard Walk of Fame to increase tourism numbers.	Sunset Strip	$142,897
Up to $60,000
Anglican Parish of Braidwood Community Management Committee for the Old Anglican Hall Braidwood	Major Restoration of Old Anglican Hall, Braidwood Increase access to space for community activities and events through restoration of local historic Hall.	Braidwood	$56,591
Central West Farming Systems Incorporated	Tapping a Natural Resource – A Rural and Regional ‘Remote’ Workforce Increase skills and capacity to work remotely through provision of tailored training program for the community in the Central West of NSW.	Condobolin	$51,195
Curban Community Hall Gilgandra Council	Curban Community Hall Enhancements Improve local meeting space and increase community capacity through installation of audio-visual equipment and upgrade to outdoor BBQ area.	Curban	$33,463
Jerilderie Pre School Kindergarten Incorporated	Jerilderie Preschool Long Day Care Centre Playground Increase access to locally based childcare services, through support to construct a playground and outdoor place space at the new Jerilderie Long Day Care Centre.	Jerilderie	$60,000
Boomi Memorial Hall Committee Moree Plains Shire Council	Boomi Memorial Hall Upgrade Increase accessibility and reduced volunteer fatigue through upgrades to the Boomi Memorial Hall.	Boomi	$59,549
Northern Gomeroi Aboriginal Corporation	Northern Gomeroi Men’s Shed Increase social inclusion and activities for local men through purchase of a property for a Men’s Shed.	Boggabilla	$52,542
Western Plains Regional Development Incorporated	Broadening Horizons Provide youth with access to transport to enable them to take part in preschool, work experience, school holiday programs and other extra-curricular activities across the Lachlan Shire through the purchase of a 12-seater bus.	Lake Cargelligo	$60,000
Up To $20,000
Coonabarabran Aero Club Coonabarabran High School Parents and Citizens Association	The Sky is No Limit! Enhance educational participation for children disadvantaged by drought through the upgrade of the Coonabarabran Aero Club training school flight simulator at Coonabarabran High School.	Coonabarabran	$4,705
Coursing Park Tennis and Community Centre Incorporated	Coursing Park Tennis and Community Centre Repair- Stage 2 Reduce volunteer fatigue, increase organisational capacity, and strengthen community cohesion through enhancements at the Coursing Park Tennis and Community Centre.	Coursing Park	$7,485
Crescent Head Community Garden Incorporated	Crescent Head Community Garden Construction Phase 2 Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of local not-for-profit organisations through the expansion of the Crescent Head community Garden.	Crescent Head	$7,220
Grafton Jacaranda Festival Incorporated	Growing the Grafton Jacaranda Festival Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the purchase of tables and chairs for the Grafton Jacaranda Festival.	Grafton	$16,454
Moulamein Pre School Incorporated	Moulamein (and Wakool) Preschool’s Visit to Altina Wildlife Park Enhance social and educational participation for the children of Moulamein and Wakool Preschools through an excursion to Altina Wildlife Park.	Moulamein	$1,658
Quandialla Bowling Club	Quandialla Bowling Club Air Conditioning Upgrade Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase capacity through the installation of reverse cycle air conditioning at the Quandialla Bowling Club.	Quandialla	$19,700
Revamping at The Woolshed Incorporated	Revamping at the Woolshed Reduce social isolation and develop skills and knowledge through the delivery of the ‘Revamping at the Woolshed’ repurposing workshops.	Lightning Ridge and surrounds	$20,000
Breadalbane Hall & Park ULSC 355 Committee Upper Lachlan Shire Council	Installation of Commercial Dishwasher Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase capacity through the installation of a commercial dishwasher at the Breadalbane Hall.	Breadalbane	$5,000
QUEENSLAND
Up to $60,000
Blackall – Tambo Regional Council	Tambo Dam Lights Increase local tourism numbers and stay length, through installation of an illuminated sculpture attraction at Tambo Dam public space.	Tambo	$45,000
Charters Towers Women of the Outback Shed Incorporated	Growing Space for Growing Needs – a New Shed for the Women of the Outback Increase the capacity and build the sustainability of the Charters Towers Women of the Outback Shed through construction of additional space to accommodate increased membership and activity.	Charters Towers	$36,702
Chinchilla Race Club Incorporated	Public Facility Shade Enhancement Project Increase community comfort at local meeting facility through installation of shade structures at the Chinchilla Race Club.	Chinchilla	$60,000
Dalby Welcoming Community Incorporated	Proactive Dalby – Strengthening and Building Resilience of Six Community Groups Build capacity, support sustainability, and increase resilience of six local community groups in Dalby, through development of marketing and business plans.	Dalby	$46,200
Glenore Grove Public Hall Committee Incorporated	Glenore Grove Public Hall – Extension and Improvements Stage 2 Increase community access and participation at community events through construction of accessible toilets and increased storage space.	Glenore Grove	$22,089
Kilkivan Veteran’s and Community Men’s Shed Association Incorporated	Kilkivan Veteran’s and Community “Men’s Shed” Reduce social isolation and increase connectedness through construction of a Men’s Shed facility for the delivery of craft activities.	Kilkivan	$55,105
Moonie Sports Club Incorporated	Tim Brown Multipurpose Pavilion Increase capacity for local Sports Club to deliver community events and activities through construction of a large sheltered outdoor area.	Moonie	$54,721
Up To $20,000
Central Queensland University	The Central Highlands Social Enterprise Hub Project Enhance knowledge, leadership, and skills development in social enterprise activities through the delivery of The Central Highlands Social Enterprise Hub Project.	Emerald	$18,320
Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail Incorporated	Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail Open Studios Event 2020 Reduce social isolation and enhance economic renewal and recovery through the delivery of the Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail Open Studios Event 2020.	Stanthorpe	$20,000
Hodgson Soldiers Memorial Hall and Recreation Association Incorporated	Restumping of Hodgson Soldiers Memorial Hall Increase organisational capacity to continue and encourage community events at Hodgson Soldiers Memorial Hall, through the restumping of the floor.	Hodgson	$12,000
Warra Progress and Heritage Society Incorporated	Former Haystack School Building (1910-1968) Repair and Repaint Project Increase accessibility, capacity, and sustainability through refurbishment of the Haystack School House in Warra.	Warra	$19,999
SOUTH AUSTRALIA / VICTORIA / WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Up To $60,000
Farina Restoration Group Incorporated	Farina Community Solar & Digital Engagement Project Increase capacity and sustainability for volunteer run tourist attraction, through installation of solar system for Farina Restoration Group.	Farina, SA	$51,672
Riverland Connect Association Incorporated	Paringa Silo Art Increase local tourism and support the economy through establishing large mural artwork on local silos at drought affected Paringa.	Paringa, SA	$60,000
Manangatang Improvement Group Incorporated	Cooking Up a Storm: Manangatang Hall Kitchen Upgrade Increase capacity to enhance community events at Manangatang Hall, through upgrade of kitchen.	Manangatang, VIC	$60,000
Condingup and Districts Recreation Association Incorporated	Condingup Community Centre Space for Kids Support opportunities for social connection through construction of a skatepark at the Condingup Recreation Reserve.	Condingup, WA	$60,000
Up To $20,000
William Creek Gymkhana Committee	William Creek Community Horsemanship Clinic & Get-Together for Children and the Wider Community Reduce social isolation and provide opportunity for social and educational participation through the delivery of the William Creek Community Horsemanship Clinic & Get-together for children and the wider community.	William Creek, WA	$18,090
Bairnsdale Recycling Enterprise Incorporated	Bairnsdale Repair Café (Pilot Project) Reduce social isolation and increase skills and knowledge through the delivery of a one-year pilot of the Bairnsdale Repair Café.	Bairnsdale, VIC	$11,700
Birchip Cropping Group Incorporated	Bolstering Birchip Support and engage the Birchip community in leadership development and skills training through the ‘Bolstering Birchip’ project.	Birchip, VIC	$20,000
Wycheproof and District Preschool Centre Incorporated	Furniture for New Wycheproof Early Learning Centre Support opportunities for social and educational participation and address disadvantage caused by the drought, for children through upgrading furniture and learning resources at an Early Learning Centre.	Wycheproof, VIC	$12,000
Warren Catchments Council	Mapping Community Well-Being and Resilience in a Changing Climate Support and engage the community in workshops and skills training to build understanding of the changing climate for residents of Manjimup, Walpole, and Pemberton.	Manjimup, WA	$3,000

$970,136 in grants awarded

12 August 2020: The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), in partnership with the Pratt Foundation, has granted a further $241,386 to support 13 community-led projects in the Snowy Valleys region.

The Visy Tumut Region Recovery Fund was established in February 2020 to support community-led projects designed to address a diverse range of bushfire recovery needs and community priorities in the Snowy Valleys. A total of $970,136 in funding has been granted to 36 projects over the last seven months, and the program is now closed.

Anthony Pratt, Executive Chairman of Visy, said the organisation has been so pleased to have been able to support the Snowy Valleys region.

“It is wonderful to have seen how these grants have been put into action by community groups to make a real difference to the region’s recovery,” said Mr Pratt.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that there have been many great projects funded through the Visy Tumut Region Recovery Fund.

“Thanks to the early response and support of the Pratt Foundation, many recovery projects in the Snowy Valleys region have already been able to get underway, such as the RegenerART project. With funds received in a previous grant round, the Tumut Art Society is running workshops in Talbingo, Adelong, Batlow and Tumbarumba to ensure that there are local opportunities to come together and enjoy learning diverse art practices.

“I’m just as confident that the local organisations that have been awarded grants for projects this final round will play a critical role in the ongoing recovery of these communities. Projects like Eastern Riverina Arts’ Woodlands Film Festival and the Sounds of Summer Camerata String Orchestra Snowy Valleys Council Tour will help to build community spirit and strengthen social connections.

“Other local organisations have been awarded grants for projects that support the recovery of their community by updating, rebuilding or developing community infrastructure, including the Ournie Fire Brigade’s shed, the Adelong Men’s Shed entrance and the Batlow Sound Shell, memorialising the Batlow Cannery lost in the Dunn’s Rd Fire. These are all great examples of local community groups playing a vital role in disaster recovery because they are on the ground and best placed to know what is needed,” said Ms Egleton.

The grant recipients are below:

Organisation	Project Summary	Grant	Location
Adelong Men’s Shed Inc	Concrete Driveway Build organisational capacity of Adelong Men’s Shed with the construction of a concrete driveway to improve member access.	Adelong	$19,223
Adelong Swimming Club Inc	Adelong Community Aquatic Centre Shade and Solar Improve community infrastructure and capacity, upgrading the Adelong Community Pool with adequate shading and a structure to support solar heating for increased winter patronage.	Adelong	$35,000
Adelong Tennis Club Inc	Adelong Tennis Clubhouse Roof Replacement Improving community infrastructure by replacing the Adelong Tennis Clubhouse roof to support community group meetings.	Adelong	$10,000
Batlow Apple Tree Learning Centre Co-operative Ltd	Outdoor Play Space Upgrade Build community capacity and resilience, upgrading the outdoor play space at Batlow Apple Tree Learning Centre to support early years learning.	Batlow	$15,000
Batlow Development League	Sounds and History of Batlow Increase community capacity and support economic recovery in Batlow by constructing a sound shell to memorialise the Batlow Cannery and support local events.	Batlow	$30,000
Cycle Tumbarumba Inc	Link to Mason’s Hill Trails Improving community infrastructure for local and tourist use through extending the trail bike link with a safe off-road bike path for children and adults.	Tumbarumba	$10,000
Eastern Riverina Arts	The Woodlands Film Festival Build community spirit through reviving the Woodland Film Festival and presenting local stories at a landmark site for all the community to enjoy.	Pilot Hill Arboretum	$19,390
Montreal Community Theatre Inc	Montreal Community Theatre Shop (Cafe/Bar) Build organisational capacity developing a café shop front at the Montreal Theatre Space to provide a retail and cultural hub for community development.	Tumut	$30,000
Ournie Rural Fire Brigade	Ournie Community Recovery Project Build community resilience and connectedness by improving the Ournie Fire Brigade shed facilities to create a community meeting space and better local RFS facility.	Ournie	$10,000
Snowy Valleys Council	Tooma Hall Transfer Pump and Water Storage Build community resilience by upgrading community infrastructure at the Tooma Hall with water storage for evacuation and everyday community use.	Tooma	$32,000
Talbingo MTB Club Inc	Talbingo Mountain Bike Park Shelters Enhance community facilities through the installation of bike shelters to support local and tourist patronage.	Talbingo	$11,373
Tumbarumba Artists on Parade Co-Operative Limited	Sounds of Summer Camerata String Orchestra Tour Enhance the cultural vibrancy of the Snowy Valleys with performances by classical musicians at local venues in Tumut, Tumbarumba and Khancoban.	Khancoban	$13,400
Upper Murray Community Radio Inc.	Training of Additional Volunteers for Operation of Community Radio -3 RUM (Tumbarumba site) Build community capacity training volunteers as operators at Tumbarumba Community Radio and increasing skills for local content broadcasting.	Tumbarumba	$6,000

Investing in the long-term future of rural NSW communities

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has awarded $1,047,716 in grants to support 37 projects led by not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) across six rural communities in New South Wales, through the Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program.

The more than $1 million in grants is funded through FRRR’s partnerships with the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation (VFFF) and The Snow Foundation, which are both committed in helping develop communities in rural and regional NSW.

IRCF is a place-based program that provides local NFPs and community sector organisations with practical support and funding so they can be stronger, more resilient, and fulfill their purpose with greater impact. The program encourages collaboration and community-led solutions that will seed the long-term self-sufficiency of these organisations.

In partnership with the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, FRRR launched the IRCF program in the regional NSW communities of Junee, Leeton and Nambucca Valley. Now in their second year of the five-year program, these communities are sharing a further $557,698 in Ongoing Partnership Grants.

Alli Mudford, IRCF Program Manager, said that these grants mark the start of the second phase of the IRCF program.

“The first phase was about bringing community-based organisations together to explore common needs and identify areas where they could collaborate, as well as identify what support they required as individual organisations. The kind of issues that emerged included the need for staff, organisational training and skills development, and investment in community and organisational infrastructure.

“This second phase of the program is about helping the organisations take action on these common areas of need with the support of these grants.

“For example, in Nambucca Valley, a key challenge is broad community engagement. We are supporting Nambucca Valley Youth Services and Mujaay Ganma Foundation to develop projects to help them engage more deeply with locals, particularly the young people of Nambucca Valley, by providing training and mentoring opportunities.

“In Junee and Leeton, for example, Junee Rhythm and Rail, Junee Senior Citizens and Leeton Show Society will use their funding to purchase equipment and refurbish community infrastructure that is used by a number of local not-for-profits,” said Ms Mudford.

Some of the other projects funded through these IRCF Ongoing Partnership Grants include:

• Junee Community Power received $15,000 to alleviate energy poverty for the community by installing solar power to the Junee Senior Citizens Hall. This will be the start a bigger initiative for Junee not-for-profits and community power.
• Leeton Connect received $90,000 to support Leeton not-for-profits by employing a coordinator to deliver training and development.
• Jaanymili Bawrungga in Nambucca Valley received $30,290 to develop a strategic plan to assist with operational objectives and create cultural economic sustainability with the support of a consultant.

A full list of IRCF Ongoing Partnership Grants recipients and their projects are below.

FRRR staff will continue to walk alongside these three communities, working with them to implement their community roadmap. Nambucca Valley has seen a strong demand for funding with the first tranche allocated to projects that will be managed in line with the region’s overall allocation for the life of the program. Further grants will be awarded in Leeton and Junee later in the year.

Program now rolling out on South Coast

In April 2020, FRRR and The Snow Foundation partnered with the commitment to increase their ongoing support of South Coast communities and to expand the IRCF program into Bateman’s Bay, Nowra and Ulladulla. As part of the program launch, these communities are sharing in $490,018 in Start-Up Grants.

Kate Dezarnaulds, IRCF Coordinator for Shoalhaven, said last summer’s bushfires and now COVID-19 have had a direct impact on the energy, capability, and resources of these largely volunteer-run NFPs.

“These Start-Up Grants will provide a range of dynamic grassroots organisations with funding for projects that will strengthen them and increase their capacity to support the recovery and renewal of their communities, which have been so clearly impacted by these disasters.

“For example, community organisations such as Shoalhaven Health & Arts and Milton Ulladulla Business Chamber are looking at ways to better connect with their community through improved digital infrastructure. 

“Other groups, like Shoalhaven Community Preschool, Ulladulla and Districts Community Resources Centre, and the Southcoast Health and Sustainability Alliance, are using their grants to improve governance and provide tailored training and mentoring opportunities for staff and volunteers. These are the kind of projects that struggle to find funding outside of the Investing in Rural Community Futures program, but they make a real difference to the viability and resilience of the not-for-profit sector in the region,”  said Ms Dezarnaulds.

Some of the other projects funded through these IRCF Start-Up Grants include:

• The Family Place in the Batemans Bay area received $40,785 to develop a 5-year strategic plan that supports the urgent need to adapt to Telehealth to continue to provide services during COVID-19.
• The Shoalhaven Women’s Resource Group in Nowra received $18,810 to work with a consultant to develop a new fundraising strategy that focuses on the launch of a social enterprise to provide a first employment opportunity for the women they support who are exiting prison.
• Treading Lightly in Ulladulla received $25,000 to establish a Community Hub to host their regular program of small-scale community building meetings, workshops and activities for the regions affiliated NFP’s – these workshops and meetings often have an environmental sustainability and youth outreach focus.  

A full list of IRCF Start-Up Grants recipients and their projects are below.

Over the coming six months FRRR staff and facilitators on the ground will work closely with the three communities on the South Coast, supporting them to put their Start-Up Grants projects into action.

All 37 IRCF grantees will have until December 2021 to implement their projects.

Jump to IRCF Ongoing Partnership Grants: JUNEE | LEETON | NAMBUCCA VALLEY
Jump to IRCF Start-Up Grants: NOWRA | ULLADULLA | BATEMANS BAY

Organisation	Project	Grant
IRCF Ongoing Partnership Grants
JUNEE
Junee Business & Trades	Junee Community Events Trailer Enable improved coordination and resource-sharing through the purchase of a trailer and equipment for events to be utilised by the range of NFP groups.	$30,611
Junee Business & Trades	Junee Community Presentations Improve organisational capacity and upskill leaders and volunteers of local Community Groups by conducting a series of presentations and workshops.	$20,000
Junee Community Power	Invest in the Junee Community Circular Fund (JCCP) Increase organisational capacity and save operational costs for community organisations by investing in two solar systems to kickstart a circular fund for community-owned electricity generation in the Junee Shire.	$15,000
Riverina Boys	Public Address System Installation Build organisational capacity and increase community engagement through installation of a Public Address system across four recreation areas in Junee.	$20,000
Junee Senior Citizens	Saving the Senior Citizens Hall Reduce volunteer fatigue, build the capacity of the Junee Senior Citizens Club, and assist the wider community by supporting the Junee Senior Citizens Hall upgrade.	$13,000
Rhythm & Rail	Junee Community AV Build capacity across the not-for-profit sector and increase community engagement through the upgrade of a portable PA system and new control booth.	$19,944
LEETON
Leeton Connect	Leeton Connect – Connecting the Leeton LGA Not-for-Profits Now and in the Future Build organisational capacity across the Leeton not-for-profit sector through training, resources, an online community directory, and community volunteer and asset registers.	$90,000
Leeton Art Society	LASI Website – Create, Community & Continuity Improve community engagement and enhance digital literacy and organisational capacity of Leeton Art Society by investing in a new website and digital literacy program.	$15,500
Whitton Public School P&C	Hot Desk for the Whitton Community – Providing Strength from Within Foster sustainability and connectedness of local community organisations in Whitton by providing a shared central office space complete with office equipment.	$10,207
Leeton Show Society	Leeton Show Society Combined Office Space – A Workspace for Partnering NFPs Reduce volunteer fatigue and support NFP organisational capacity through upgrade of facilities at the Leeton Show Society combined office space.	$23,436
NAMBUCCA VALLEY
Alithia	Administration and Funding Support Strengthen organisational capacity and community inclusion and connectivity by initiating a range of measures to support the Alithia learning space in Valla Beach.	$30,000
Bowraville Innovative Social Enterprises Precinct Incorporated	Scoping Governance Build organisational capacity by developing and implementing a strong governance framework from which to train and support other local not-for-profits and social enterprises in Bowraville and the Nambucca Valley.	$44,912
Jaanymili Bawrungga Incorporated	Jaanymili Bawrungga Building Blocks Strengthen organisational capacity and sustainability by developing internal systems, leadership, and governance structures.	$30,290
MiiMi Aboriginal Corporation	Gumbaynggirr Administration Support Role Build organisational sustainability and capacity by employing a young local administrative person for 12 months to provide support to the organisation.	$55,735
Mujaay Ganma Foundation Aboriginal Corporation	Yuraal Guunumba Ngurraay: Gumbaynggirr Native Foods Community Garden Project Foster community engagement, organisational capacity, and share cultural knowledge by engaging trainee coordinators and mentors to kickstart the Mujaay Ganma’s Yuraal Garden Project.	$38,443
Muurrbay Aboriginal Language & Culture Co-operative	Strengthening Muurrbay & Aboriginal Languages for the Future Support the sustainability of Muurrbay, and more widely the survival of local Aboriginal languages, by updating organisational policies, procedure and plans with the assistance of the Brangan Group working with Muurrbay Board and staff.	$14,600
Nambucca Senior Citizens Club	Nambucca Valley Newsletter Promote community connectivity and reduce social exclusion by supporting a local Nambucca print newsletter and news desk at the Senior Citizens Hall.	$4,030
Nambucca Valley Phoenix Limited	The Phoenix Rising – Strategic Plan and Mentoring Develop a five-year strategic plan to transform NVP into a sustainable social enterprise, supporting people living with disabilities and/or other disadvantages to participate in employment, training, and micro-enterprise development.	$40,000
Nambucca Valley Youth Services Inc	Marketing and Business Administration Training for Staff and Volunteers Including Young People at the Nambucca Valley Youth Services Centre Upskill staff and volunteers at Nambucca Valley Youth Services Centre through three workshops across the Valley in marketing and administration and support the collection of content and design for a website and communications strategy.	$41,990
IRCF Start-Up Grants
NOWRA
The Shoalhaven Women’s Resource Group Limited	CREATING A FUTURE – Delivering Diversified Revenue to Thrive Support sustainability and succession of The Shoalhaven Women’s Resource Group Limited by development of a diversified revenue strategy including feasibility studies into potential social enterprises to enhance their funding mix and reduce vulnerability to changes in grant funding.	$18,810
Shoalhaven Community Preschool Incorporated	Staff Wellbeing and Capacity Building Program Empower the staff, strengthen their resilience post-bushfires, and increase their cultural awareness through the provision of a tailored staff development program, cultural awareness training and the employment of an Aboriginal Identified trainee.	$15,000
Shoalhaven Health and Arts	Shoalhaven Health & Arts – Website and Outreach Create community awareness of the program of Arts & Health activities being developed for the Nowra community by the newly formed organisation – Shoalhaven Arts & Health Inc through the development of marketing and communications channels designed to reach those with lived experience of recent bushfire trauma and the local services that support them.	$10,000
Shoalhaven Neighbourhood Services Inc	Client Management System (CMS) Enhancement to Enable Shoalhaven Neighbourhood Services to Become More Sustainable, Flexible, and Adaptive Streamline the delivery of in-home services through the purchase, migration, and implementation of a custom-designed CRM for Shoalhaven Neighbourhood Services so that they can better support the aged and people living with disability in the Nowra area.	$28,304
South Coast Beef Producers Association Incorporated	Shoalhaven Cattle Industry Training Centre Improve opportunities for commercial South Coast beef producers through the construction of a fit-for-purpose cattle handling, showing, and training facility at the Nowra Showgrounds.	$47,508
Tomerong School of Arts	Connecting Community, Building Resilience Enhance community connectedness through the creation and distribution of a quarterly community newsletter and new-resident welcome pack that will promote community life, volunteering opportunities and events centered around the Tomerong School of Arts.	$5,900
ULLADULLA
Milton Promotions Committee	Milton Back in Business Stimulate activity in the local economy to aid economic recovery from the fires and COVID through a cooperative marketing campaign seeking to encourage visitors and residents to shop local in Milton.	$10,000
Milton Ulladulla Business Chamber Incorporated	Community Connect Shoalhaven (CCSS) Enable the fragmented community sector of the Ulladulla / Milton area to better communicate, collaborate and support each other through the creation of a community newsletter, website, and database of organisations, events and volunteers.	$17,870
Ulladulla and Districts Community Resources Centre Incorporated	Building Foundations Develop supportive relationships and deeper connectivity to culturally diverse communities, especially the local Aboriginal community, through a research and training program for staff and volunteers followed by the formalisation and documentation of strategic partnerships with aligned organisations.	$45,902
Independence Ulladulla Inc	Everybody Deserves to THRIVE Enable Independence Ulladulla to secure their tenancy and operations, modernise their operating systems and update their training to provide a much-needed School Leavers’ Employment Support program and expand their community engagement offering to non-resident disability clients.	$50,000
Treading Lightly Inc	Treading Lightly Community Hub Establish a Community Hub for Treading Lightly to provide a visible focal point and an efficient delivery mechanism for the regions affiliated NFP’s to host their regular program of small-scale community building meetings, workshops and activities that often have a focus on environmental sustainability and youth outreach.	$25,000
Red Head Villages Association Incorporated	Red Head Villages Enhance social cohesion, get prepared with ‘shovel ready’ projects and improve future disaster preparedness through the preparation of a master plan for the five villages of the Red Head area just north of Ulladulla.	$31,971
BATEMANS BAY
Community Life Batemans Bay Inc	Look Listen Learn Inspire and develop capacity and organisational sustainability by conducting a one-day workshop for directors, staff, and volunteers, with a focus on nurturing individual leadership, good governance, responsibility, and accountability.	$5,045
Eurobodalla Education and Therapy Services Ltd	Building Allied Health in the Eurobodalla Strengthen organisational succession planning for the team at Muddy Puddles and retain local people and skills by establishing a student placement program for Allied Health workers.	$37,500
SEARMS Aboriginal Corporation	Community – Stronger Together Prepare the SEARMS Aboriginal Corporation for their next chapter with the development of a community engagement plan and new strategic plan to capitalise on their partnerships and networks and adjust to changing funding dynamics.	$40,000
Clyde River and Batemans Bay Historical Society Inc	Aspire, Acquire, Become! Build organisational capacity through the delivery of Governance training for the Clyde River & Batemans Bay Historical Society and their three local partner historical societies before a major expansion of built infrastructure and complexity of operations.	$22,923
The Family Place Inc	Growing a Strong Service for a Strong and Vibrant Community Drive innovation in service delivery, strengthen governance and invest in leadership for The Family Place through the appointment of a consultant to guide strategic planning for the future while acknowledging trauma and providing space to heal after the fires.	$40,785
Southcoast Health and Sustainability Alliance	Turbocharging South Coast Volunteer, NFPs Drive widespread and coordinated capacity building across 20+ grassroots NFP’s in the Eurobodalla area through the appointment of a project coordinator to support governance, leadership, and communications programs.	$37,500

Includes bushfire recovery funding

15 July 2020: The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) flagship grants program, Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC), is now inviting applications for grants of up to $10,000 through the Small & Vital stream, and up to $25,000 through the program’s new Bushfire Recovery stream.

Thanks to the generous support of FRRR’s donor partners, the Small & Vital stream has $615,000 available this round to fund projects that support a broad range of initiatives that directly benefit rural, regional and remote communities across Australia.

A further $650,000 is available this round through the Bushfire Recovery stream to support the recovery of communities affected by last summer’s bushfires.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that rural, regional and remote communities play a vital role in Australia’s prosperity, and with the impacts and ongoing uncertainty around COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to keep funds flowing into regional areas.

“Strengthening Rural Communities Small & Vital grants offer flexible funding to any rural, regional or remote community across Australia to help them address local priorities. With COVID-19 affecting local businesses and local community fundraising, these grants are more important than ever to help communities seed and strengthen, adapt and evolve or innovate and renew.

“Having places and events where people can come together to improve community health and social wellbeing, or undertake activities that build community resilience and enhance the skills and capacity of the community, all helps to strengthen these communities – socially, mentally and economically,” Ms Egleton explained.

Funding to support medium to long-term bushfire recovery

The SRC program has been expanded to include a dedicated stream of funding to support medium to long-term recovery of bushfire-affected communities.

“We know from our experience supporting communities over the last 20 years that those affected by the bushfires have a long road ahead of them, and what is needed for their recovery will be different in every place. That’s why we have created the Bushfire Recovery stream within the SRC program,” said Ms Egleton.

“Local community groups in bushfire-affected areas can apply for the funding they need, whatever their priorities. It could be to help bring people together, even if that’s virtually in some cases, to share their experiences, reduce social isolation and increase community connectedness. Or the priority might be to boost the local economy through activities that increase cashflow in affected towns. In other places, the focus might be on repairing community infrastructure or ensuring communications equipment can cope if there’s a similar event in the future, so people feel safe and connected.”

Community not-for-profit groups and organisations that do not have deductible gift recipient (DGR) status are encouraged to apply for funding to help secure the future success of their community.

FRRR accepts SRC applications year-round, which are then reviewed at least three times per year. The next cut-off date for applications to be considered is 25 August 2020. Outcomes will be announced by late December 2020. Projects funded in this round must be undertaken between January 2021 and January 2022.

The SRC program and its Bushfire Recovery stream is collaboratively supported by a number of generous donors. Please visit the SRC webpage to see the full list of donors.

Applications are now open for ANZ’s Seeds of Renewal program, with grants of up to $15,000 available for not-for-profit organisations in rural areas to support the ongoing prosperity of regional Australia.

Established in 2003 and administered by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), the program has provided more than $5 million to more than 800 community groups to support local projects and help build vibrant and sustainable rural and regional communities. 

In 2020, the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program is offering a share of $250,000 to community organisations in regional locations for projects that improve:

• Environmental sustainability: initiatives that restore and conserve the natural environment or which contribute to lower carbon emissions, water stewardship and waste minimisation;
• Financial wellbeing: particularly for under-represented and disadvantaged people in the community, including initiatives that improve economic participation. For example, building financial literacy and vocational skills and providing access to meaningful work;
• Housing access: initiatives and programs that support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness or that provide supports for people living with disability. 

ANZ General Manager Business Banking Jenefer Stewart said, “The ANZ Seeds of Renewal program has supported hundreds of community-based, grassroots programs and initiatives that have created new opportunities for regional communities. It is truly humbling to see the difference these grants are able to make in rural and regional Australia,” Ms Stewart said. 

Last year, ANZ and FRRR provided grants to 25 community groups for projects ranging from saving an endangered bee species on Kangaroo Island to supporting young people at risk of homelessness in the Port Hedland region of Western Australia. These projects shared in $250,000 in cash, and a further $16,728 in IT equipment provided by ANZ’s technology partner Lenovo.

FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton said, “Rural and regional communities play such a vital role in the prosperity of Australia. Yet they face far greater economic inequity and limited housing opportunities compared to those living in the city. Additionally, rural areas are also often at the forefront of environmental disasters, like drought and bushfires. The ANZ Seeds of Renewal program is a great opportunity to help address these challenges with locally-appropriate solutions. We look forward to seeing what inspirational ideas rural and regional communities put forward this year,” Ms Egleton said.

Applications open on Tuesday, 14 July and close Wednesday, 19 August 2020.

Young people affected by the 2009 Victorian bushfires emerged as some of the most vulnerable and at-risk in affected communities. In 2014, the Victorian Department of Human Services partnered with FRRR to develop a program to address some of the key challenges affecting young these young people.

Known as School and Beyond, the program was delivered from 2015 to 2020 across 11 LGA’s in 2009 bushfire-affected regions.

The aims included removing financial and psychological barriers to participation and completion of study, supporting pathways to vocational training and employment; and to support the cost of education and training costs.

In total, 43 grants saw $496,250 in funding go toward supporting education and/or mental health initiatives that benefited 2,589 youth in 2009 bushfire-affected areas.

Details of the funded projects are summarised below:

School and Beyond Project Summary	Amount Awarded
Bright & Myrtleford – North East Support and Action for Youth Inc
F17 Hairdressing Enable further employment opportunities, through engagement in Certificate 3 in Hairdressing as a pathway to Hairdressing Apprenticeship training at local TAFE.	$1,406
Laptop Purchase Increase school engagement through provision of laptop to support disadvantaged 14-year-old student.	$1,544
SOAR Group Program Increase support for disengaged students, through delivery of an adventure-based program that aims to build leadership and resilience.	$10,630
School Based Counselling Program Increase support for mental health issues through access to secondary school –based, generalist Youth Counselling Program for Bright P-12 and Marion College, Myrtleford.	$48,276
School Based Counselling Program Increase access to mental health support through delivery of secondary school–based, generalist Youth Counselling Program for Bright P-12 and Marion College, Myrtleford.	$50,302
Drouin – Drouin Secondary College
Work Ready Program Increase skills and confidence for students to remain engaged with secondary education, work towards a career and achieve employment on leaving Drouin Secondary College.	$23,340
Eaglehawk – Eaglehawk Secondary College
Connected Circus Increase social and emotional competence through the delivery of the Connected Circus program to 30 male students attending Eaglehawk secondary College.	$9,000
Tutoring and Technology Increase technology resources and tutoring support to expand supported and alternative learning programs for ‘at risk’ and disengaged youth.	$32,290
Kinglake Ranges – Ellimatta Inc
WWC & CPR Individual Brokerage Increase support to gain employment for local youth, through upskilling through short courses in CPR and Working with Children.	$191
Textbooks Increase access to educational resources for disadvantaged student studying bachelor’s degree of Dermal Sciences through purchase of textbooks.	$725
Software & Laptop Increase independence, confidence and, engagement with education, through text to speech software and laptop for a VCE student with a learning disorder.	$1,497
Tutoring 1 to 1 Increase in confidence and learning capacity, through private tutoring for a student with developmental delay.	$1,500
Maths Tutoring with Drums Increase in self-esteem, school attendance and learning outcomes, through access to maths tutoring utilising drums for a student with ADHD.	$1,500
VCE English Tutoring Increase student school attendance, self-reported self-esteem, and confidence, through access to qualified tutor to aid a Year 12 student in VCE English.	$1,500
Bach Early Learning – Laptop Camera and Textbooks Increase access to technology and educational resources for disadvantaged student studying Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, through provision of a laptop, camera, and textbooks.	$1,500
Tutoring and OT Sessions Improve short term emotional, social, and learning functioning through access to tutoring and occupational therapy to assist student management of PTSD, APD and anxiety.	$4,120
Morwell & Churchill – Kurnai College
Textbooks for Senior Students Relieve financial barriers to participation through provision of Year 11 & 12 Textbooks for loan to VCE students.	$1,511
Mental Health First Aid Training Increase awareness and support for mental health through delivery of Teen Mental Health First Aid training program to 180 Year 10 students and teachers.	$2,800
We’re Learning Increase access to learning resources through access for VCE Students to participate in University delivered revision lectures in the various VCE subject areas during the September 2016 school holidays.	$5,320
See the Future Build belief and aspiration levels among students through ‘aspirational’ posters influenced by past successful Kurnai College students.	$5,410
Literacy, Numeracy, Life Skills Increase engagement with education through delivery of specialised literacy and numeracy support program for struggling students in years 7-10.	$6,000
Bike Fleet Increase alternative avenues for students to engage and remain in education, through bicycles to resource flexible learning program.	$6,912
Aspire Higher Improve aspiration and academic outcomes, through delivery of after school tutoring and mentoring project by university students from the Gippsland Campus of Federation University.	$8,125
Aspire Even Higher Top of Form Increase tertiary study aspirations and academic skills of year 11 and 12 VCE students attending Kurnai College, through the delivery of tutoring and mentoring sessions.	$8,125B
Boys to the Bush Build relationships and re-engage students in education through delivery of one-week, hands-on skills and team building activities at farming camp in rural NSW.	$9,600
Hands on Learning Machinery Shop Increase subject choice for students attending the Flexible Learning Options program through building a shed to support the delivery of woodwork and construction activities.	$29,750
Traralgon – Traralgon College
Traralgon College Relationships, Engagement and Resilience Project Increase resilience, school engagement and connections through funding participation at school camp for year eight students.	$22,074
Whittlesea – Whittlesea Secondary College
Transport to Careers Expo 2018 Increase understanding of future learning opportunities, job seeking and work experience through transport for 60 VCAL students to attend Youth Employment Opportunities Fair and Expo 2018.	$308
Year 7 & 8 Textbooks Increase school attendance, through provision of essential textbooks for students in year 7 and 8.	$500
Transport to Year 9 Careers Expo 2018 Create stronger understanding of career pathways, jobs, apprenticeships, and traineeships through transport for 108 Year 9 students to Careers Expo at Assumption College	$616
VET Engineering Students Excursion Create stronger understanding of career pathways in the engineering industry, through transport for 21 students studying Certificate II Pre-apprenticeship Engineering Studies, to attend a tour of two major engineering industries.	$713
VET Hospitality Students Excursion Create stronger understanding of career pathways within the hospitality industry, through transport for 24 Whittlesea Secondary College students in Years 10 – 12 who are completing Certificate 11 in Kitchen Operations, to attend a behind the scenes tour of the Langham Hotel.	$888
Transport to VCE Expo 2017 Increase understanding of future learning opportunities, job seeking and work experience for 160 Year 10 students and 9 staff from Whittlesea Secondary College through travel to state-wide VCE and Careers Expo.	$1,353
Whittlesea Township Young People Engagement Increase student engagement through program designed to inform local youth services about the needs, issues, priorities, and ideas, of students in years 9 and 10.	$28,250
Phoenix in Flight Increase student engagement and mental health support through delivery of therapeutic interventions and hands on learning program to at risk students at Whittlesea Secondary College.	$35,863
Yarra Valley – Cire Services Inc
Youth Program Officer – ECOSS Yarra Valley Increase engagement with education through employment of a part-time Youth Program Officer to deliver skill building activities including the construction of a small sustainable building.	$19,500
Horticulture Pathway Program Build resilience and vocational pathways for Year-10 students from Yarra Ranges Shire secondary schools through delivery of Certificate II in Horticulture.	$20,978
Yarram – Yarram Secondary College
Excursion Transport – Careers Expo Increase awareness and provide more options for work experience through educational/ careers-based excursions for 65 students from years 8-10 to the Melbourne Zoo, Science Works, and the Harbour Town precinct.	$1,500
Learn About Work: Yarram! Increase students’ career aspirations and connections to local employers through delivery of ‘industry taster’ event for 60 senior secondary students from Yarram Secondary School. This event will be run by Gippsland East Local Learning and Education Network and encompass visits to major industry employers, employment skill development and facilitation of networking with local businesses.	$4,000
Yarram Ag Program Improve employment pathways for local youth and provide alternative opportunities to engage in education through expansion of agricultural studies area at Yarram Secondary College through the purchase of a cattle ramp, cattle crush, and vermin proof feed bin.	$7,378
Yarram’s Yummy Yard Increase delivery of hands on activities that build wellbeing and resilience in the student and school community through the construction of a food garden at Yarram Secondary College.	$18,131
Short Course Program Week Increase problem solving capacity and resilience through delivery of Short Courses Program.	$39,320
Yea – Yea High School
Psychological support for improved student outcomes Increase support for senior students impacted by the 2009 bushfires through provision of face to face Psychologist sessions at Yea High School.	$22,000
Total:	$496,246

9 July 2020: Sony Foundation Australia, together with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), have today announced two grants that will help young people affected by last summer’s bushfires.

The funding comes from the $200,000 donation that Sony Foundation Australia made to FRRR during the landmark Fire Fight Australia concert, held in Sydney in February.

The grants will support youth in Mallacoota, in Victoria’s Gippsland, and in Ulladulla, on the NSW South Coast, by helping them to establish a safe space where they can come together to share their experiences, support one another, and generally enhance their wellbeing and recovery from the bushfires.

Mallacoota Youth Group will use their $100,000 grant to fund the activities and operations of an emerging youth centre called The Sanctuary. This project will contribute to building the capacity, resilience, and wellbeing of the young people in Mallacoota. Led by the young people themselves, The Sanctuary will provide pathways for young people to access mentoring, social networks and resources in the community. The youth-led organisation has strong community support. It’s expected Mallacoota’s youth will use the space to study, play music, make art, play games, organise programs and events and run workshops.

The second project, which is led by the Ulladulla High School, will use a $80,000 grant to establish a Sanctuary of Wellbeing and Renewal, which will benefit the 1,200-strong student population, and their families. Sanctuary of Wellbeing and Renewal will provide a safe environment for positive initiatives that enhance student wellbeing to enable positive recovery and resilience.

Sophie Ryan, CEO of Sony Foundation Australia, said there are going to be many long-term effects caused by the bushfires that young Australians will be coping with for some time to come.

“About 1 in 4 young people can suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder following a major crisis like the recent bushfires and sadly, in the midst of recovery, the specific needs of young people can be overlooked. At Sony Foundation, we are helping to fill this gap by funding programs which will improve the wellbeing of young people, helping them recover and heal.

“We are honoured to be able to partner with FRRR to support these two projects, both of which will create safe places where young people can engage in activities and encourage social networks to help heal and forge a positive path forward,” Ms Ryan said.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that there were many fabulous project ideas put forward, and reflects the devastating impact of the recent bushfires on young people, which has been exacerbated by the onset of COVID-19.

“It’s clear that young people are feeling the cumulative effects of disasters particularly deeply, as we had many really strong proposals to consider. These two grants will help put local youth in Mallacoota and Ulladulla more in control of their recovery and have access to the additional services they need. We are pleased to have been able to help Sony Foundation Australia get this funding to two communities where it will make a real difference,” Ms Egleton said.

Both FRRR and Sony Foundation Australia will continue to invest in the ongoing recovery of communities. To date, FRRR has distributed more than $1.5M in bushfire recovery, with applications currently open for further bushfire recovery grants.

Grants up to $20,000 available through the In a Good Place program

8 July 2020: Grants of up to $20,000 are now available to not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) throughout rural, regional and remote Australia to support projects that improve and strengthen the mental health of their communities through the In a Good Place (IAGP) program.

The IAGP program, now in its third year, is the centrepiece of a five-year partnership between the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and CCI Giving. It is based on a shared belief in the value and importance of rural, regional and remote communities and a commitment to strengthening mental health and wellbeing within those communities.

A pool of $200,000 is available for community-led projects that reduce social isolation, increase social participation and connectedness, and increase access to help for people within rural, regional and remote communities who are at risk of, or are experiencing, mental health issues.

Jeremy Yipp, Chief Risk Officer of CCI and Chair of CCI Giving, said initiatives that increase the resilience and social connectedness of rural communities not only have direct mental health benefits, but often also lead to improved mental wellbeing by increasing productivity, economic participation, and employment.

“We have seen so many projects funded through the In a Good Place program that have been a beacon of hope for those living in communities doing it tough. They have made a real difference to the resilience, social connectedness and mental wellbeing of rural Australia. Even just sharing experiences and knowing that you’re not alone is, in itself, powerful.

“We encourage community groups to put forward proposals for projects that will help to tackle the mental health challenges their community is facing, especially with the additional pressures encountered due to COVID-19,” said Mr Yipp.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that COVID-19 has highlighted the impact that isolation can have on mental health and demonstrates why social connectedness, particularly during times of crisis, is so important for the mental wellbeing of those living in rural communities.

“Rural communities have been hit by drought, bushfires, floods and now the impact of COVID-19 restrictions. These events have a huge impact on the mental health of those living in these regions,” Ms Egleton said.

For people living in rural, regional and remote Australia, accessing mental health support is typically more complex than in metropolitan areas. This is due to a myriad of factors including a lack of mental health expertise within the community, the considerable travel time to reach mental health services and specialists and an overarching culture of self-reliance and fear of stigma.[1][2]

“Mental health in rural, regional and remote Australia is a complex issue. Overwhelmingly, there is a consistent need in these communities for better access to mental health services, as well as greater opportunities to strengthen social-connectedness and participation,” Ms Egleton explained.

“It’s not just about those that have a mental health condition having access to clinical services, but also how we can support opportunities to promote mental wellbeing, through the likes of workshops or mental health first-aid training, or simply providing a safe place to chat to someone.”

“Each community is different; with different mental health concerns, needs and priorities. Our partnership with CCI Giving means that we can support community-led initiatives that are meaningful and will have the greatest impact on the mental wellness of those living in these rural communities,” said Ms Egleton.

Applications open on 7 July 2020. FRRR expects this will be a highly competitive program and so there is a two-stage application process. A brief project outline must be submitted no later than 7 August, and full applications for invited projects are due by 11 August 2020. 

News Corp Bushfire Fund offers grants up to $25,000

With COVID-19 restrictions beginning to lift across the country, hundreds of communities impacted by last summer’s bushfires are finally able to refocus on their recovery. Thanks to generous support from News Corp, FRRR is offering more community recovery grants across the local government areas (LGAs) declared as fire-affected.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that there is nearly $630,000 available through the News Corp Bushfire Fund program to support the myriad of community-led recovery initiatives that have largely been on hold since early March.

“Through our work over the last 20 years, including supporting those impacted by the 2009 Victorian bushfires, we know that every community is different. This is particularly true when it comes to bushfire recovery, as the needs of each place are different depending on the priorities of the community.

“For some communities, this support could include purchasing equipment like two-way radios, upgrading emergency evacuation centres or developing a community emergency response plan. For others it could be improving social connectedness and enhancing community spirit through arts programs, mental health workshops or initiatives that will bring visitors back to the community. In short, we support whatever is most important to the community to help them begin to build back better.

“That’s why, in partnership with News Corp, we are offering grants of up to $25,000 that can be put toward any charitable project that local not-for-profit groups identify as helpful to recovery efforts,” Ms Egleton explained.

This will be the second round of funding from the News Corp Bushfire Fund, which awarded nearly $370,000 in grants last month.

Penny Fowler, Chairman of the Herald & Weekly Times and News Corp Australia’s Community Ambassador said that the Fund is keen to ensure that there are applications from all of the fire-affected regions.

“Over the summer, there were fires across the country – from Queensland right down the eastern seaboard, as well as in South Australia and Tasmania – and we want to ensure that funds are shared in all the locations where support is needed. So, if you were in a fire-affected area, we encourage you to apply for a grant,” Ms Fowler said.

Applications for the next round of News Corp Bushfire Fund grants close 5 August, with funds expected to be awarded in October.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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