Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)
Women in the 200+ rural community of Hamilton in the Central Highlands region of Tasmania are healthier and happier, thanks to a series of workshops that focused on empowering women and building their resilience. The sessions were supported by a $5,000 grant through FRRR’s Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants program that helped cover food costs and speaker fees, making it affordable for many rural women to attend.
The sessions came about after the The Hamilton District Agricultural Show Society (HDASS) committee volunteers noticed that women in the district often felt lonely and isolated, as facilities closed down, leaving them fewer options to get involved in activities. Add to that the challenge of balancing work, family life, sport, hobbies, managing access to health services and more.
The committee therefore decided to plan something to bring them together and learn new skills, in the belief that strong women create strong families and communities. The grant meant the committee could offer a series of workshops rather than only one, helping participants build their network and cement connections with new and familiar people.
They ran four sessions from June to December 2023, each with a different topic around the theme of empowering women and building their resilience:
- The power of the written word – about how reading and book clubs can provide a fabulous networking opportunity for attendees.
- Resilience through self-care – addressing common health issues for women and reinforcing the need to be proactive in managing your health.
- Strength through agriculture and community – tips on managing mental health challenges and how important friends and colleagues are in times of need.
- Protecting rural communities from within – sharing how building connections can help prevent crime in rural communities.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/GIA-36280-Hamilton-WEB-1-1024x768.png)
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Joanna Jones from the HDASS committee reported that the program brought together around 70 people from a diverse range of ages, social backgrounds, education and jobs, and encouraged learning from the presenters, as well as each other.
“Bringing together people from different facets of the community, and allowing people to make new connections and friends was a highlight … This was a fantastic program. It was also lovely that a representative from Nutrien was able to attend two of the workshops, and see the difference the funding made to the community,” she said.
Applications for Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program are now open, with eligible not-for-profit organisations invited to apply for a grant of up to $5,000 to support community projects in regional Australia.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/39104_Qld_BiloelaGarden-edited.jpg)
“Through our partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program has been instrumental in providing more than $750,000 in funding over the last three years to local not-for-profit organisations,” said Mady Muirhead, Corporate Affairs Advisor at Nutrien Ag Solutions.
“In 2023 alone, we granted more than $252,000 to 57 community-led projects across remote, rural and regional Australia. These projects are designed to strengthen and invigorate our communities, making them even more vibrant and prosperous.”
“We’re a local employer across hundreds of communities, so we know what a privilege it is to live and work in regional Australia. Our community investments are underpinned by one aim – contributing to a successful, sustainable and safe future for agricultural communities,” said Ms Muirhead.
The Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program has supported more than 160 local projects since its launch in 2021, including the redevelopment of fire shed facilities at Carabost, New South Wales; the restoration of the historic Buangor Cobb and Co at Buangor, Victoria; and the construction of a stage shelter at the agricultural showgrounds in Millicent, South Australia.
“We work in partnership with our communities to support them at a grassroots level, in ways that best suit the specific needs of that community,” said Ms Muirhead.
The Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program is run in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR).
FRRR Place Program Lead, Jill Karena, says that it’s wonderful to partner with Nutrien Ag Solutions to support local not-for-profits that know just what’s needed to make their communities more livable, vibrant and sustainable.
“Whether it’s an initiative to engage local young people, enhancements to community facilities to bring people together and facilitate connection, or providing access to services many of us in urban areas take for granted, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program has the flexibility to respond to local priorities identified by local people. We look forward to seeing what those needs are this year and to help bring those great ideas to fruition,” said Ms Karena.
Applications for the 2024 Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program are open now and close on 8 August 2024, with successful applicants announced in October this year.
An online webinar will be held to support grant seekers from 12.30 – 1.30pm (AEST) on Tuesday 16 July. Sign up here: https://events.humanitix.com/nutrien-ag-solutions-grantseeker-workshop.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/nutrien/.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Arrapile1_Web-1-1024x768.png)
The Arapiles Community Theatre (ACT) is a local volunteer-led arts organisation that supports a wide range of creative practices, helping artists develop their work, and regularly hosting arts events at the local Natimuk’s Soldiers Memorial Hall. They’re dedicated to keeping the arts scene vibrant in the local Wimmera region and promoting local artists and their work.
Although it’s a beautiful old brick building, the Memorial Hall has some limitations, particularly when it comes to the audiovisual (AV) equipment. It requires IT expertise to set-up and troubleshoot any issues, which makes it hard for volunteers to use the equipment and discourages many from booking the venue.
This led to ACT applying for a grant to purchase a simple ‘plug and play’ AV system, which is easy for those with limited IT knowledge to use, yet still ensures high-quality projection and sound and delivers a satisfying experience for both the user and their audience.
ACT received a $5,000 grant from FRRR through the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants program. Coupled with an equal grant from the Horsham Rural City Council, they were able to buy a comprehensive and permanent AV system for the Hall. While the heritage hall presented difficulties, the community’s determination saw them through. They faced and overcame the hurdles, learning and showcasing their skills during the process.
This investment in a meaningful, community project plays an important role in the viability of the hall and the vibrancy within the region. The long-term benefits for the broader community are highly significant. With new, easy-to-use equipment, more people want to rent the hall. The new AV system meets the high standards required for visiting screening opportunities, which helps ACT committee host more events and consequently, makes the hall a better place for social, economic, and cultural connections.
In finalising their project, Jacqui from the ACT committee said that this grant was fantastic for their hall and community. They expressed gratitude to FRRR and Nutrien Ag Solutions for their support. The revitalisation has led to more upcoming upgrades and has brought a positive impact to the entire region.
Nutrien Ag Solutions funds more than $250,000 in local projects
Nutrien Ag Solutions, in partnership with the FRRR, has awarded $252,924 in grants to 57 local not-for-profit organisations for projects that will contribute to the success, vibrancy and wellbeing of their remote, rural or regional communities.
![People using gardening tools to cultivate a garden.](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Nutrien-Tom-Price-Community-Garden-Web-1024x768.png)
Awarded through the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program, the grants will support a broad array of projects, including community facility upgrades, local events and social gatherings, training and mentoring to address issues such as food insecurity and healthcare, and the purchase or upgrade of equipment to support volunteers.
Since 2021, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program has awarded more than $750,000 in grants to 167 community-led projects, helping to create long-term positive outcomes for rural places.
Mady Muirhead, Corporate Affairs Advisor at Nutrien Ag Solutions, said that the company is proud to support rural communities to implement future-focused solutions that are both attainable and sustainable.
“Thanks to our partnership with FRRR, we are able to help local grassroots organisations do more of what they do best. These organisations are the heartbeat of remote, rural and regional communities, and raising funds for local priority projects is getting harder and harder. But we are proud to support them now, and in the long-term.
“This year we saw almost 200 local Nutrien branches endorse grant applications and we are proud to fund more than a quarter of those projects. Our people live and work in these communities and thanks to their commitment to building lasting relationships with locals, they know just what projects the community will really value,” Ms Muirhead explained.
Jill Karena, FRRR’s Place Portfolio Lead, said that this year, most funding has been directed toward upgrading the amenities or accessibility of community facilities.
“This reflects the increasing costs and dereliction of ageing community infrastructure and the challenges of fundraising locally to maintain these assets. Even though the grants may be considered small, these improvements will have a big impact on ensuring that these local meeting places are safe and secure so that locals can maintain their social connections.
“We appreciate Nutrien Ag Solutions’ continued support and investment in this program. It’s these kinds of partnerships that enable us to fund initiatives that are meaningful to the community in which the project is run. No matter what this may look like, we are inspired by the persistence of rural communities, to create a more vibrant and connected Australia,” Ms Karena said.
Some of the 57 organisations and projects being supported include:
- Northern NSW Helicopter Rescue Service Limited, in Tenterfield, NSW, has been awarded $5,000 to enhance the organisation’s fundraising capability and facilitate community engagement by purchasing a barbeque trailer.
- Riding for the Disabled Association Top End, in Darwin, NT, has been awarded $5,000 to increase disability support services through equipment to increase coach capacity for walking horses at Top End Riding for the Disabled.
- Banana Shire Community Arts Assoc Inc, in Biloela, QLD, has been awarded $4,778 to improve community facilities with a water tank at the Biloela Community Garden enabling efficient water use for growing fruit and vegetables for community access.
- Manoora Centenary Park Incorporated, in Manoora, SA, has been awarded $5,000 to enhance community first aid access at the Manoora Centenary Park by creating a dedicated space for first aid to be administered and improving hygiene, secure storage and patient privacy.
- Huon Valley Police & Community Youth Club Inc, in Huonville, TAS, has been awarded $5,000 to host a program focused on disadvantaged-youth that helps them learn about the importance of teamwork, co-operation, communication and leadership.
- Committee of Management of Dunrobin Public Hall and Reserve Inc, in Dunrobin, VIC, has been awarded $2,746 to build community capacity through the purchase of new chairs and a stainless steel urn to support safe and comfortable use of the Dunrobin Hall.
- Dumbleyung Community Resource Centre, in Dumbleyung, WA, has been awarded $4,597 to support community connection with the purchase of an inflatable screen to enable inclusive access to free movie nights across the year for a small remote community.
The fourth round of the Program is expected to open around June 2024. Community groups looking for funding in the interim should head to www.frrr.org.au/find-funding.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES | ||||||
Australian Agricultural Centre Limited | Agriculture Career Taster Day Support ongoing student engagement in agriculture careers and build organisational capacity of the Australian Agricultural Centre Limited through supporting their training activities. | Crookwell | $5,000 | |||
Bearbong Recreation Reserve Land Manager | Mothers Not Mice Build the capacity of volunteers and reduce mice issues with a robot vacuum cleaner that will automatically clean before and after key activities such as mothers' group. | Gilgandra | $1,799 | |||
Berry and District Historical Society Incorporated | Photographic Equipment for Digitisation of the Berry Museum's Collection Build the capacity and capability of the Berry Historical Museum with photographic equipment to support digitisation of the local collection. | Berry | $2,946 | |||
Braidwood FM Incorporated | Bravo TT Console Upgrade broadcasting console at Braidwood FM Community Radio station to support local volunteer broadcasting of news, entertainment and emergency updates for community safety and local engagement. | Braidwood | $5,000 | |||
Rotary Club of Wagga Kooringal Inc on behalf of the Carabost Rural Fire Service | Carbost Fire Shed Ancillary Area Enhance facilities for Carabost RFS volunteers with a kitchen fit out to support meetings, training and recruitment of new volunteers. | Carabost | $5,000 | |||
Culgoa Community Sports Club Incorporated | Fencing Exterior of Tennis Courts Upgrade remote community facilities with a fence to keep wildlife from damaging the surface of the tennis court, which is a vital asset for community wellbeing and socialisation. | Brewarrina | $5,000 | |||
Girilambone Community Association | Girilambone Community Notice Board - Bringing Us Closer Together Build community capacity through the purchase and installation of a community notice board to community effectively to the broader community about social events, learning opportunities and emergency preparedness. | Girilambone | $2,923 | |||
Goulburn Agricultural Pastoral & Horticultural Society Incorporated | Manure Bay Increase hygiene and protect biodiversity through building a manure bay at the showgrounds that will ensure appropriate disposal and reduce volunteer efforts. | Goulburn | $5,000 | |||
Louth Chamber of Commerce | Louth Community Tennis Shed: Maintenance and Facility Upgrade Build community resilience with notice boards and gear for social tennis installed at the Louth community site to revitalise, inform and engage the community to connect. | Louth | $5,000 | |||
Marrar Gymkhana Reserve Land Manager | Lawn Mower for Our Reserve Build capacity and increase use of the Marrar Gymkhana Reserve with the purchase of a lawn mower to reduce volunteer reliance and increase consistent maintenance to attract more users. | Marrar | $5,000 | |||
Murrurundi Matters Inc | Cultivating Sustainability and Nourishing a Community through the Murrurundi Collective Permaculture Garden Initiative Support training and mentoring in permaculture and food systems development in Murrurundi to assist issues of food security with both individual and community gardens. | Murrurundi | $5,000 | |||
Northern NSW Helicopter Rescue Service Limited | Barbecue Trailer Procurement for Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service's Tenterfield Volunteer Support Group Enhance the organisation’s fundraising capability and facilitate community engagement by purchasing a barbeque trailer. | Tenterfield | $5,000 | |||
Nullamanna Reserve Land Manager | Portable Microphone Unit Enhance community facilities through a portable microphone system that connects into the ground's public announcement speaker system to reduce volunteer effort and improve communications effectiveness for all events including in times of emergency. | Nullamanna | $3,000 | |||
Packsaddle Progress Association | Packsaddle Annual Christmas Tree Enhance the organisation's ability to meet the needs of a remote community by acquiring equipment and supplies required to organise events. | Packsaddle | $5,000 | |||
South Coast Beef Producers Association Incorporated | Establishing an Online Presence for All Communications Support ongoing student engagement in agriculture careers and build organisational capacity of the South Coast Beef Producers Association through upgrading the functionality of their website. | Nowra | $5,000 | |||
NORTHERN TERRITORY | ||||||
Riding for the Disabled Association Top End | Capacity Development - Horse Walker Completion Project Increase disability support services through equipment to increase coach capacity for walking horses at Top End Riding for the Disabled. | Darwin | $5,000 | |||
QUEENSLAND | ||||||
Banana Shire Community Arts Assoc Inc | The Biloela Community Garden Project Improve community facilities with a water tank at the Biloela Community Garden enabling efficient water use for growing fruit and vegetables for community access. | Biloela | $4,778 | |||
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club Inc | 2023-24 Junior Lifesaving Development Program Build community resilience with training of Forrest SLSC nippers to provide the surf life savers of the future and strengthen community facilities. | Allingham | $5,000 | |||
Kilkivan Primary P&C Association | Kilkivan State School Cattle Team - Water Increase educational opportunities in agriculture with additional water troughs to support expansion of the Kilkivan High School cattle program. | Kilkivan | $5,000 | |||
Morven Progress Association Incorporated | Gathering Around the Tea and Coffee Station Enhance community facility's capacity to support social engagement with a central kitchenette constructed in the main hall for tea and coffee in Morven. | Morven | $5,000 | |||
Mount Morgan Citizen's Club Inc | Mount Morgan Arts Precinct - All Abilities Access Increase access to community facilities with funding for a doorway renovation including a ramp to enable access for people with all abilities and wheelchairs. | Mount Morgan | $4,255 | |||
Two Mile State School P&C Association | Kitchen Garden and Outdoor Learning Classroom Upgrade the outdoor kitchen garden classroom area to enhance learning opportunities for students. | Gympie | $5,000 | |||
Wandoan District Meals on Wheels Inc | Wandoan Meals on Wheels Build organisational capacity with volunteer recruitment, training and food supplies to support the Wandoan Wheels on Meals service. | Wandoan | $5,000 | |||
SOUTH AUSTRALIA | ||||||
Burra Pre-School Kindergarten | To Install Free-Standing Monkey Bars at the Burra Early Learning Centre Support early childhood development through the installation of monkey bars at Burra Pre School and Kindergarten. | Burra | $5,000 | |||
Cummins & District War Memorial Swimming Pool Inc | Plan for the Cummins and District War Memorial Pool Redevelopment Support the renovation of Cummins pool, an important community resource that brings people together, by hiring a qualified consultant to create a restoration plan. | Cummins | $5,000 | |||
Glencoe Public Hall Incorporated | Hall Kitchen Upgrade for Safety Upgrade Glencoe Community Hall's kitchen to support compliance and ensure operations for all community group use and evacuation centre utility. | Glencoe | $5,000 | |||
Hardwicke Bay & District Progress Association | Kitchen Refurbishment at Community Hall Improved community facilities with a kitchen renovation at the Hardwicke Bay community hall that is the social hub for the small community. | Hardwicke Bay | $5,000 | |||
Isolated Children's Parent's Association of South Australia | South Australia Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association (SA ICPA) State Council Workshops Build the capacity of volunteer committee / counsellors who support children and parents in isolated rural and remote areas of South Australia with face-to-face workshops in leadership and governance. | Port Augusta | $5,000 | |||
Jamestown Apex Club | The Jamestown Combined Services Groups 2023 Christmas Pageant Strengthen community connection with the funding of children's entertainment, including rides, and event insurance for the local community Christmas event. | Jamestown | $5,000 | |||
Karoonda Farm Fair Inc | Building Capacity for Karoonda Farm Fair and Show Build the organisation's capacity by training volunteers for event activities and purchase equipment to manage event logistics. | Karoonda | $4,955 | |||
Manoora Centenary Park Incorporated | First Aid Room Enhance community first aid access at the Manoora Centenary Park by creating a dedicated space for first aid to be administered and improving hygiene, secure storage and patient privacy. | Manoora | $5,000 | |||
Millicent Agricultural Horticultural and Pastoral Society Inc | Stage Shelter Improve community infrastructure by constructing a shelter over the stage at the Millicent Show Grounds to support all weather use for multiple purposes. | Millicent | $5,000 | |||
TASMANIA | ||||||
Flinders Island Show Society Inc | Create an Undercover Flexible Venue for Community Use Upgrade community facilities by extending the roof at the showgrounds to increase capacity for events and thereby increase opportunities for activities. | Whitemark | $5,000 | |||
Huon Valley Police & Community Youth Club Inc | Operation Resilience Program Host a program focused on disadvantaged youth that helps them learn about the importance of teamwork, co-operation, communication and leadership. | Huonville | $5,000 | |||
Rocky Cape Public Hall Incorporation | Defibrillator Acquisition Increase users’ safety at the Rocky Cape Public Hall by installing a defibrillator. | Rocky Cape | $2,500 | |||
VICTORIA | ||||||
Anam Cara House Colac Inc | Supporting Rural People to Take Control of their Healthcare Needs Support vulnerable ageing and ill people in South West Victoria through training registered nurses to provide education and help individuals in developing Advance Care Plans. | Colac | $3,389 | |||
Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve and Hall Community Reference Group Bonnie Doon Community Group Inc | Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve Hall Facilities Upgrade Upgrade community facilities with audio, lighting and tables to support events at the Bonnie Doon Community Hall. | Bonnie Doon | $4,822 | |||
Buangor Community Sports Centre Inc | Historic Buangor Cobb & Co – Window & Door-frame Refurbishment Maintain community facility through repairing window of historic Buangor Cobb & Co building to ensure security and continued community use. | Buangor | $5,000 | |||
Camperdown Pastoral & Agricultural Society Inc | Heartbeat of Our Community Boost organisation’s capability to support the wider community through the purchase of a defibrillator for use in an emergency at community events. | Camperdown | $2,724 | |||
Committee of Management of Dunrobin Public Hall and Reserve Inc | A Place to Sit Build community capacity through the purchase of new chairs and a stainless steel urn to support safe and comfortable use of the Dunrobin Hall. | Dunrobin | $2,746 | |||
Dimboola Progress Association Incorporated | See Dimboola in a New Light Boost community vitality through the purchase and installation of lighting on streetscape buildings and trees to reignite the community’s ‘sense of place’. | Dimboola | $5,000 | |||
Get Started Disability Support Australia Ltd | Get Started Disability & Beyond Online Workshop Series & Facilitated Peer Support Empower people living with disability through education, knowledge, connection and lived experience. | Kilmore | $5,000 | |||
Kaniva Leeor United Football Netball Club | Sprinkler System Installation at the Kaniva Community Hub Support volunteers with an automated watering system to reduce grounds maintenance at the Kaniva Community Hub. | Kaniva | $4,532 | |||
Mitta Valley Landcare Inc | Mitta Valley Planting and Catering Trailer Build organisational capacity with a trailer to support volunteer tree planting and environmental works for flood mitigation in the Mitta Valley. | Mitta Mitta | $5,000 | |||
Myrtleford RSL Sub-Branch Inc | Comfort for the Elderly, the Vulnerable and Families Improve community facilities with new furniture to support ongoing use for community meetings and social connection for the elderly, veterans and their families, in particular on memorial days. | Myrtleford | $4,500 | |||
Nathalia Agricultural Society | Who is a Show Worker? Volunteers' Uniforms Support volunteers to host the local Show and improve event safety by purchasing volunteers’ uniforms. | Nathalia | $1,145 | |||
Omeo Region Business and Tourism Association on behalf of Omeo Community Hub | Omeo Community Hub Support community connectedness and engagement through funding craft gatherings for 12 months at the new volunteer-run Omeo Community Hub. | Omeo | $4,050 | |||
The Leongatha Men's Shed | Squared Away Boost the Men's Shed capacity to help community groups by providing them with equipment to create products for those in need. | Leongatha | $2,759 | |||
The Trustee for the MAC Trust | The Heart of the Organisation Build the capacity of the Mansfield Armchair Cinemas with a new computer to support operations and the student trainees completing media studies on-the-job. | Mansfield | $3,124 | |||
WESTERN AUSTRALIA | ||||||
Albany Mens Shed Inc | Dust Extraction Upgrade - Addressing Identified Health Risks Improve air quality for users of the Albany Mens Shed through a dust extraction upgrade to benefit the existing 180 male and female members and enable expansion. | Albany | $4,914 | |||
Aldersyde Agricultural Hall Incorporated | Playground Enhance community infrastructure through the purchase of playground equipment for Aldersyde Hall that meets Australian Standards, and encourages engaging and safe play. | Aldersyde | $5,000 | |||
Dumbleyung Community Resource Centre | Cinematic Magic in Dumbleyung Support community connection with the purchase of an inflatable screen to enable inclusive access to free movie nights across the year for a small remote community. | Dumbleyung | $4,597 | |||
Hopetoun Progress Association Inc | Summer Sessions 2024 Build community connection through funding musicians at the Hopetoun Annual Summer Festival which provides a free family friendly event for locals to socialise and engage in activities. | Hopetoun | $5,000 | |||
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region Inc | Mobile Watering Unit to Increase Community Planting Success Rates Boost the effectiveness of local conservation and land management with a mobile watering unit to support the work of 290 regular volunteers for the Nature Conservation Margaret River Region and preserve the rich biodiverse environment for the community who live there. | Margaret River | $5,000 | |||
River Conservation Society Incorporated | Gogulgar Bilya / Avon River Community Information & Educational Space Support conservation of Gogulgar Bilya / Avon rivers systems through constructing an information and education pergola with local First Nations, land management and nature conservatory expertise input to educate and engage local interest and participation in conservation. | York | $5,000 | |||
Tonebridge Country Club Inc | Replacement of Chairs Upgrade community facilities with the purchase of new chairs to support remote community events including tennis, bounce, pool and bbq's every Sunday. | Tonebridge | $4,378 | |||
Yarra Yarra Catchment Management Group Incorporated | Growing Community Strengthen community resilience with a workshop on resilient gardening and equipment to build a local community garden in Kalannie. | Kalannie | $3,088 |
Applications for Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program are now open, with eligible not-for-profit organisations invited to apply for a grant of up to $5,000 to support remote, rural or regional community projects. The Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program is run in partnership with FRRR.
![Penneshaw Medical Clinic](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Todd-Price-Penneshaw-Medical-Clinic_GW-1024x768.jpg)
“Since the launch of the Community Grants program in 2021, Nutrien has supported 110 projects by awarding over $500,000 in grants to rural and regional communities across Australia,” said Mady Muirhead, Corporate Affairs Coordinator at Nutrien Ag Solutions.
“The success of agriculture and the well-being of regional Australia are inextricably linked. We’re proud to play a leading role in helping to build a safe and sustainable future for our farmers and their communities. We are going further by investing in meaningful projects and supporting local grassroot organisations.
“We have thousands of employees living and working in rural and regional Australia, ingrained in their local communities. They have a deep understanding of what makes a community thrive – and it’s all about the people.
“Last year we saw many parts of our country face environmental disasters on a significant scale, with many still facing recovery. This placed significant unanticipated stress on grassroots organisations and groups that work tirelessly to support their local communities. Nutrien Ag Solutions is so proud to provide a much-needed boost to the rural and regional communities we are a part of,” said Ms Muirhead.
The Community Grants Program has supported more than 100 local projects over the past two years, including the installation of an Indigenous artwork and Bush Tucker Garden at Childers, Queensland; contributing to a purpose-built beach ramp and wheelchairs at Swansea, Tasmania; child protection workshops at Dowerin, Western Australia and the installation of solar power panels at the Cambrai Sports Club in South Australia.
“We work in partnership with our communities to support them at a local level, in ways that best suit the individual needs of that community,” said Ms Muirhead.
“Rural communities continue to deal with so many challenges and the role of local not-for-profit groups is becoming ever more critical in filling gaps and helping create vibrant, sustainable communities. Many of these organisations have wonderful volunteers who do so much but projects to improve community facilities or resource new projects or operations also need funding,” said FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton.
“Over the last two years local fundraising has been made increasingly difficult due to COVID and increasing economic pressures, meaning locals have less capacity to give. As a result, we’re seeing more and more demand for funding support.
“We are grateful for Nutrien’s ongoing partnership, as it enables grassroots groups to access grants that can go toward these projects. But it’s more than just money, as Nutrien’s support continues locally for groups that get funding, staying connected to the local branches as projects are implemented. So, we look forward to seeing what projects come forward this year,” Ms Egleton said.
Applications for the 2023 Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program are open now and close 10th August 2023, with successful applicants announced in October this year.
An online webinar will be held to support grant seekers from 12.30 – 1.30 (AEST) on Monday 24 July. Sign up for the webinar via the FRRR website or via this LINK.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/nutrien/
Ravensthorpe Community Resource Centre (CRC) Inc is integral in coordinating and managing community and business events throughout the Ravensthorpe Shire in Western Australia. They have expanded to the Fitzgerald Business Network, which is focused on connecting and skill building businesses throughout the district including social development activities such as Study with a Buddy After School Program; Seniors Computer Club and major annual events such as Wellness Weekender and Galaxy Country Carnival and Street Parade.
A $5,000 Nutrien Ag Solution Community Grant in 2021 provided the opportunity to improve community organisations’ employee and volunteer management. The grant funded bringing in a local human resources consultant to develop tailored solutions for paid and unpaid personnel in local community groups, run workshops on volunteer management software systems and set up a central register for formal volunteer documents. Additionally, a project manager was paid to plan and co-ordinate the work.
Volunteers are the lifeblood of many communities. However, this is a great example of how funding can temporarily increase organisational capacity to complete work effectively. In this case the original plan of completing one group training was not possible so several sessions had to be coordinated to ensure all local community groups could participate.
There have been some great outcomes:
- Position descriptions and employment contracts were developed for seven community groups or volunteer programs, including the Community Spirit Committee and Ravensthorpe Regional Arts Council.
- A volunteer certificate register was developed and promoted. It has benefited three groups (and will continue to benefit others) who have volunteers that require Working With Children Checks, Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificates and that want to store these certificates in a central location.
- Two workshops on cloud-based volunteer management options were delivered.
Chairperson Tracy Ebert was delighted with the project outcomes. “We have developed a suite of tailored resources for some of our most important local community groups. The volunteers on these groups now feel much more confident to engage volunteers and paid staff knowing that they are meeting all legal requirements. The volunteers have enjoyed having very clear expectations and have remained engaged. There are now at least three other groups in the community using the volunteer software system presented to manage volunteers and the reporting to committees and management of tasks has been vastly improved in these instances.
“And that’s not all,” she continued. “Excitingly, we have been able to provide these resources to a region-wide project – South Coast Enviro Experiences – with similar objectives (as the challenges with managing volunteers are universal), which means they don’t have to reinvent the wheel and can direct their resources into other essential elements of the project which we will benefit from.”
There are learnings in all projects and the Ravensthorpe CRC are conscious of the security of the data they hold on behalf of their volunteers, and have taken all measures for its secure keeping.
Overall, 60 people from Ravensthorpe community organisations directly benefited from the training and presentations, and there is the ongoing benefit to human resource documentation and administration skills to support current and future employees and volunteers in Ravensthorpe.
In November, around 25 supporters joined the FRRR directors, CEO and Partnerships Team for a donor event held at the Nutrien Ag Solutions offices in Docklands, Melbourne. Dialling into the event as a guest speaker was Jacqui Bramwell from Alpine Valleys Community Leadership (AVCL) program.
Based in the Alpine Valley in north east Victoria, AVCL is dedicated to supporting their region by building strong leadership among locals, to create thriving, connected and resilient communities.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Jacqui-Bramwell-presenting-AVCLP-1024x768.jpg)
Back in 2019/20, the Alpine Valley was heavily affected by the Black Summer bushfires. The fires destroyed homes, livestock, 3,387km of fencing, and in the Alpine Shire 30% of the shire footprint had some of the worst air quality in the world, causing smoke taint on the grapes in the many local wineries.
For these communities in the north east, recovery took many forms. Immediate recovery needs included finding food and shelter for displaced people and repairing fences to keep livestock contained. But as time passed, recovery needs changed and the focus turned to the future.
In 2021, AVCL received a $90,000 multi-year grant from FRRR, through the Bushfire Recovery Fund, funded by the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust (HMSTrust) and the Sidney Myer Fund. The grant was to build their capacity to strategically plan and deliver leadership training that will effectively support and build community recovery in the area.
This FRRR grant program supports not-for-profit community groups who play a central coordinating or networking role in supporting communities to recover from the Black Summer bushfires and to build organisational capacity.
Jacqui joined the meeting to share progress to date in implementing their grant and to provide some insights into the ongoing recovery.
A key goal for AVCL was to develop a recovery component in their organisation’s strategic plan, including developing specific workshop programs and resources and to make them more accessible to community members.
To understand what the broader community needed, they started by consulting widely. They connected with their 500 alumni across the north east region. They also contacted local authority Recovery Managers and Neighbourhood Centres who are well connected within their communities to hear first-hand what locals need.
“The key themes from those consultations were the challenges around supporting and sustaining community-led recovery. For the community to lead the recovery process, they need to have the leadership and project management skills,” Jacqui explained.
She noted that the scale of the recovery has affected all other activities in the Shires, taking community leaders away from other organisations they are normally active in.
“In this region, there are up to 10 Community Recovery Committees due to the vast impacts of the fires and the geography. That means a lot of people. This highlights the importance of building the next generation of leaders to backfill those positions on the committees of organisations such as CWA, the SES, the local cemetery management committee etc. Improving the leadership skills of more people can help to expand the reach of recovery efforts and strengthen the future of community more broadly.
Another aspect that Jacqui highlighted was the need to be proactive and consider future sustainability of the region. Some communities have told AVCL that they want to take a bigger view, in the face of rapid climate change and the intensity and frequency of these events. They are interested in transformational change, such as considering changing a community’s economic base.
To support local leaders through this, they have arranged trips to other communities that have had to transform, such as Derby in Tasmania, which has evolved from a mining community into an adventure-based tourism community, attracting thousands of people. These trips are an important opportunity to explore how to take it from being a concept to being a reality. Hearing directly from the people that have driven that in a community where it’s worked is important for them. They can take those lessons on board as to how to drive that sort of change in their own communities.
Over the next two years, the remaining funds will go towards actually delivering these resources and learnings to local communities.
“AVCL will coordinate leadership development in governance, project management and other specific leadership skills requested, ideally attracting other funding so the training can remain free or at only nominal cost.”
We look forward to sharing what else they learn as this project continues to roll out.
53 priority projects receive grants through Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants programs
Fifty-three important community projects across the length and breadth of remote, rural and regional Australia will share $250,000 in funding, thanks to the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program.
![](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/43-Resize-for-website-Featured-Image-1.png)
This is the second year of the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program, which offers grants of up to $5,000 for projects that contribute to community wellbeing and vibrancy in remote, rural and regional communities.
Nutrien Ag Solutions Director of Corporate Affairs Carissa Buckland says they received more than 300 applications from communities right across the country.
“The strong number of applications we continue to receive for this program clearly indicates the need for this level of support for grassroots, not-for-profit organisations. So, we’re delighted to award grants to so many diverse projects that help these remote, rural and regional communities thrive,” says Ms Buckland.
“Part of the application process involves the local Nutrien store actively endorsing each project and application. Our stores are very integrated in their communities and our teams are passionate about providing meaningful support to positively impact the towns in which they live and work in, so this is a really important part of the process.
“This year we have approved grants to enhance and support the delivery of community events, including new marquees, grandstand seating and improved website functionality to support local show and expo event management. Critical funding will also go towards a diverse range of restorations, upgrades and new equipment for community facilities – from a toilet roof to rejuvenated courtyards to outdoor seating and kitchens, data projectors and lawn mowers. There’s even funding for sensory, Zen, bush tucker and community gardens, with each project designed to inclusively meet the needs of their communities. While they are not large value grants, these projects enable community activity to build connection and, importantly, support volunteers in all their efforts,” says Ms Buckland.
The Program is proudly run in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR).
FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton says she appreciates organisations like Nutrien Ag Solutions partnering with FRRR to support the priorities of grassroots organisations that are the heartbeat of remote, rural and regional communities across Australia.
“The volume and nature of these applications is a strong sign that rural community life is returning to normal, although it also signifies just how challenging it is to raise these funds locally and the extent of the need that exists.
“It’s really pleasing for us that so much of the funding – nearly 30% – will go to communities with fewer than 500 people, which makes fundraising really hard. Most of the groups are also located in outer regional, remote or very remote areas of the country,” Ms Egleton explains.
The full list of recipients is available below. Some of the organisations and projects being supported include:
- Illabo Showground Land Manager, Illabo, NSW – Build capacity at the local show grounds with a WIFI upgrade, defibrillator installation and new broadcast system to enhance operations and experience for all users. $5,000
- Dagun Community Group Inc., Dagun, QLD – Enhance community connections with the restoration of the Dagun railway station labyrinth and Mary Valley agricultural history display, and through the community garden project. $4,900
- Limestone Coast Multicultural Network Incorporated, Naracoorte, SA – Build organisational capability with development of a strategic plan to support strengthening the Limestone Coast Multicultural Network. $4,952
- Hamilton District Agricultural Show Society, Hamilton, TAS – Build, grow and protect skills and networks with four workshops focusing on entrepreneurism, rural OH&S and resilience.$5,000
- Kyabram Blue Light, Kyabram, VIC – Increase social engagement opportunities and activities for youth in Kyabram to support their healthy growth and development. $5,000
- Lower Kalgan Community Association Incorporated, Albany, WA – Build resilience through a Fire Resilience Workshop – “Making your Property Fire Safe and Sustainable” exploring preparedness and land management aligned to changing climate impacts. $5,000
The third round of the Program is expected to open around June 2023. Community groups looking for funding in the interim should head to www.frrr.org.au/find-funding.
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES | ||||||
A Taste of Paradise Organic Farm Limited | Outdoor Kitchen Construction Enhance facilities where the community comes together and connects with the installation of an outdoor kitchen. | Broughton Village | $5,000 | |||
Broken Hill Branch The Australian Stock Horse Society Incorporated Topar Christmas Tree | Topar Christmas Tree Improve social connectedness and build resilience by supporting the Topar Christmas Party for 60 adults and 40 children in the isolated area. | Little Topar | $4,975 | |||
Challenge Community Services | Creation of a Zen Sensory Garden at Challenge's Patterson Street Disability Site Increase inclusion with the creation of a Zen Sensory Garden at Challenge's Patterson Street Disability site. | Tamworth | $4,550 | |||
Delungra Memorial Bowling & Recreation Club Ltd | Rejuvenate, Protect and Provide Enhance organisational capacity with the provision of adequate storage for the Delungra Memorial Bowling Club. | Delungra | $5,000 | |||
Dorrigo Community Nursery Inc | Water Resilience for the Dorrigo Community Nursery Improve the water efficiency of Dorrigo Community Garden with a new water tank enabling multiple volunteer projects. | Dorrigo | $5,000 | |||
Gulgong Show Society Inc | Operation Seating Increase the organisations ability to support their community with the provision of seating under the sheltered area of the Gulgong Showgrounds. | Gulgong | $3,427 | |||
Illabo Showground Land Manager | Facilities Enhancement Enhance community facilities safety by upgrading the broadcasting box, installing a defibrillator and enhancing Wifi facilities at the Illabo Showgrounds. | Illabo | $5,000 | |||
Laggan Hall Land Manager | Laggan Hall Ride-on Mower Boost volunteer vitality with the provision of a ride on mower supporting the maintenance of the Laggan Hall grounds.. | Laggan | $5,000 | |||
Lions Club of Young Incorporated | Shelving for Lions Shed Increase the capacity of the Lions Club of Young with the installation of appropriate shelving in their storage shed. | Young | $4,263 | |||
Nyngan Ag Expo Incorporated | Nyngan Ag Expo Website, Interactive Site Map and Exhibitor Booking Upgrade Build organisational capacity by upgrading the website of Nygan Ag Expo with site booking functionality to reduce volunteer efforts and increase efficiency in operations. | Nyngan | $5,000 | |||
two eight two eight inc | two eight two eight Lighting Upgrade Increase access to community facilities with the preservation of the historic Gulargambone hall. | Gulargambone | $5,000 | |||
QUEENSLAND | ||||||
Artworks Granite Belt INC | Stanthorpe QFS Restoration Project Preserve local history with the restoration of the Stanthorpe QFS building. | Stanthorpe | $5,000 | |||
Dagun Community Group Inc | Mary Valley Agricultural History Display and Dagun Railway Station Labyrinth/Community Garden Project Enhance community connections with the restoration of a labyrinth and agricultural history display supported by social gardening days. | Dagun | $4,900 | |||
Geham State School Parent & Citizens Association | New Data Projector for the Geham School/Community Activities Building Upgrade community facilities with a new data projector to support community engagement including movie nights, local events and school presentations. | Geham | $5,000 | |||
Hungerford Sports Association Inc | Portable Shade Tents for Hungerford Community Increase the organisational capacity of Hungerford Sports Association with the provision of portable shade tents to support community events and activities. | Hungerford | $5,000 | |||
Isis Community Pre-School & Kindergarten Association Inc | Indigenous Entrance Art and Bush Tucker Garden Increase cultural awareness at the Isis Community Kindergarten with the installation of an Indigenous artwork and Bush Tucker Garden. | Childers | $5,000 | |||
Lions Club of Home Hill | Replacement Gazebos and Catering Bar-b-ques Increase organisational capacity with the provision of gazebos and catering equipment for the Lions Club of Home Hill. | Home Hill | $5,000 | |||
Mundubbera Horse and Pony Club Inc | Shaded Grandstand for Mundubbera Community Enhance community facilities by supporting the installation of a shaded grandstand at the Mundubbera Showgrounds. | Mundubbera | $5,000 | |||
Prospect Community Services Ltd | Charters Towers & the Region Wellness Luncheon Enhance general health and wellbeing with the provision of a series of community wellness activities across the Charters Towers region. | Charters Towers | $5,000 | |||
Tambo Child Care Parents Group Inc | Tambo Childcare Centre Sensory Garden Project Enhance engagement in traditional educational settings with the development of a sensory garden at the Tambo Child Care facility. | Tambo | $5,000 | |||
SOUTH AUSTRALIA | ||||||
Booleroo Centre Community Development and Tourism Association Incorporated | Pass the Popcorn! Increase functionality of the local Booleroo Hall with the provision of a projector for community information sharing and entertainment. | Booleroo Centre | $5,000 | |||
Bute History Group Inc | Blinds Installation Build organisational capacity for the Bute Historical Society with new window blinds to protect their artefacts from sun damage. | Bute | $4,660 | |||
Cambrai Sports Club Inc | Installation of Solar Power to Enhance Regional Community Facility Reduce organisational overheads with the installation of Solar power at the Cambrai Sports Club. | Cambrai | $5,000 | |||
Crystal Brook Kindergarten | A Path of Intergenerational Connection Increase community connections with "A path of intergenerational Connection" enabling kindergarten children and residents of Roseview Aged care to come together in a safe space. | Crystal Brook | $5,000 | |||
Limestone Coast Multicultural Network Incorporated | Strategic Plan Development - Limestone Coast Multicultural Network Build organisational capacity with a strategic plan and vision to support the Limestone Coast Multicultural Network development. | Naracoorte | $4,952 | |||
Lucindale Area School | Aquaponics Student Learning Facility Enhance the learning opportunities at Lucindale Area School with aquaponics equipment to enable community vegetable growing. | Lucindale | $4,633 | |||
Marree Sports Club Inc | Sound System for Marree Sports Club Increase the organisational capacity of the Maree Sports Club with the installation of a sound system. | Marree | $5,000 | |||
Paskeville Football Club Incorporated | Kitchen Upgrade Increase functionality of the Paskeville Community centre by relocating the hot water system. | Paskeville | $5,000 | |||
TASMANIA | ||||||
Community Garden Wynyard Inc | Greenhouse Construction Increase community activities and opportunities to connect with the expansion of the Wynyard Community Garden facility. | Wynyard | $5,000 | |||
Hamilton District Agricultural Show Society | ‘Build, Grow, Protect’ Build community capability with four workshops focused on building resilience in individuals, growing their networks and protecting the rural community. | Hamilton | $5,000 | |||
May Shaw Health Centre Inc | Beach Wheelchair Project Increase access with the provision of an all surface wheelchair enabling beach access for residents and visitors of May Shaw Health with poor mobility. | Swansea | $5,000 | |||
North Eastern Agricultural & Pastoral Society Incorporated | Light Towers Increase organisational sustainability with the provision of light towers to mitigate regular hiring costs for the North Eastern Agricultural and Pastoral Society. | Scottsdale | $3,681 | |||
Parkham Community Inc | Restoration of Parkham Community Centre floor Support the development of places where the community can connect, learn and gather by restoring the Parkham Church as the Parkham Community Centre. | Parkham | $4,901 | |||
VICTORIA | ||||||
A Better Life For Foster Kids Incorporated | Crisis Cases for Foster Care Support vulnerable foster children transitioning to care with essential item packs to provide comfort and reduce emotional stress. | Sale | $5,000 | |||
Arapiles Community Theatre Inc Natimuk & District Soldiers Memorial Hall Committee | Natimuk Soldiers Memorial Hall Audio Visual System Boost community vitality with the installation of a data projector and sound system at the Natimuk Soldiers Memorial Hall for cultural events and increased hall usage. | Natimuk | $5,000 | |||
Boort District Agricultural and Pastoral Society Incorporated | Professional Marquees for Boort Show! Enhance the organisational capacity of Boort District Agricultural and Pastoral Society Incorporated with the provision of marquees for use at community events and activities. | Boort | $5,000 | |||
Cobden Technical School | Outdoor Meeting Space / Outdoor Classroom Improve the functionality of the outdoor classroom at Cobden Technical College with improved wife and seating, built by the local Men's Shed. | Cobden | $5,000 | |||
Connewirricoo Community Centre Incorporated | Connewirricoo Community Centre Toilets Roofing Restore community assets with repairs to the roof and walls of the Connewirricoo Community Centre ablution block. | Connewirricoo | $5,000 | |||
Gallery Central Incorporated | Gallery Lighting Improvement Improve community facilities in Nhill with new lighting at the local community art gallery to enhance visitor and local experience. | Nhill | $2,873 | |||
Heathcote Community House Incorperated | Heathcote Sustainable Community House Build organisational capacity and capability with the implementation of sustainability initiatives including a roof top solar installation. | Heathcote | $5,000 | |||
Kyabram Blue Light | Kyabram Blue Light Youth Engagement Activities 2022-2023 Increase youth connection with the provision of Blue Light activities and events for Kyabram and surrounding districts. | Kyabram | $5,000 | |||
Pomonal Progress Association Incorporated | Mini Foody Festival - Towards a Resilient Pomonal Provide access to activities to increase community connection and resilience by hosting the Pomonal Mini Foody Festival. | Pomonal | $5,000 | |||
Seymour Puckapunyal Community Radio Incorporated | Relocation of 103.9FM Community Radio Station Increase the broadcasting network of the Seymore Puckapunyal Community Radio by relocating the radio station to a more accessible site. | Seymour | $5,000 | |||
The Trustee for Country Fire Authority & Brigades Donations Fund Sandsmere Rural Fire Brigade | Training Equipment and Wellbeing Session Funding Boost organisational capacity with the provision of training equipment and volunteer support for Kaniva Country Fire Authority. | Kaniva | $2,749 | |||
Toora Community Action Team Incorporated | Toora: GunaiKurnai Country Preserve understanding of local origins and reflect on the impacts of a changing climate on the Toora community with the installation of a sculpture in the township. | Toora | $5,000 | |||
WESTERN AUSTRALIA | ||||||
1922 & You Inc | 1922 & You Centenary Courtyard Project Rejuvenate community connections in Corrigin through revitalising the courtyard as a landing place for social and wellbeing activity. | Corrigin | $3,500 | |||
Dowerin District High School Parents & Citizens Association Incorporated | Child Protection Education - Safe4Kids Workshops Enhance child safety practice through training of teacher, parents and children to build awareness and develop community skills and capability for addressing issues. | Dowerin | $5,000 | |||
Geraldton Community Toy Library | The Geraldton Toy Library Building Rejuvenation Project Increase organisational capacity with the provision of adequate storage and fencing upgrades at the Geraldton Toy Library facility. | Geraldton | $5,000 | |||
Gingin Playgroup Incorporated | Community Engagement with Playgroup Increase community resilience and connections with the provision of community events at activities at the Gingin Playgroup. | Gingin | $2,400 | |||
Lower Kalgan Community Association Incorporated | Fire Resilience Workshop - Making your Property Fire Safe and Sustainable in the Great Southern Improve community resilience and preparedness with a workshop on property fire safety and climate change impact awareness. | Albany | $5,000 | |||
Pemberton Sports Club Inc | Mower for the Pemberton Sports Club Increase the vitality of volunteers with the provision of a ride on mower for the Pemberton Sports club. | Pemberton | $5,000 | |||
Shire of Morawa | Sup and Paint Morawa - Art Evenings Create opportunities for the community to connect with the arts with the delivery of Art lessons in Morawa. | Morawa | $5,000 | |||
Tom Price Community Garden Inc | Revegetation of Bush Tucker Area Increase access to community activities with the revegetation of the Bush Tucker in the Community Garden. | Tom Price | $5,000 |
After supporting more than 50 local projects in 2021, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program is back for a second year, offering grants of up to $5,000 for projects across rural and regional Australia.
![Penneshaw Medical Clinic](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Todd-Price-Penneshaw-Medical-Clinic_GW-1024x768.jpg)
Nutrien Ag Solutions Director of Corporate Affairs Carissa Buckland says the program supports projects that strengthen, connect and enhance rural and regional communities.
“We have thousands of employees living and working in rural and regional towns right across Australia. So, we have a deep understanding of what makes a community thrive – and it’s all about the people” says Ms Buckland.
“Covid placed significant unanticipated stress on grassroots organisations and groups that work tirelessly to support their local communities. With face-to-face events restricted over the past two years it’s been challenging for these groups to rely on their regular fundraising efforts. Nutrien Ag Solutions is so proud to provide a much-needed boost to the rural and regional communities we are a part of,” says Ms Buckland.
Ms Buckland says grants are available for a wide range of meaningful community-led projects.
“Last year we supported 57 projects across the country including the installation of monkey bars at Coonamble Pre-School for their occupational therapy program and weatherproof speakers for the Mansfield Armchair Cinema. We also supported the upgrade of a space for regional artists to exhibit their work in Moora, an excursion to visit local farmers for students at Belltrees Public School, and a fence to improve the safety of the public playground at Deniliquin,” says Ms Buckland.
“We were also proud to support the return of medical services at the Penneshaw Community Health Rooms on Kangaroo Island, with funding used to provide air-conditioning for the consulting room and disability access to the bathroom, including a mobility toilet and grab rails.”
The Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program is run in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR).
FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton, says that access to flexible funding through programs like Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program is really important for local not-for-profits and community groups to sustain their communities.
“The cumulative impacts of fires, floods, drought and COVID has put significant pressure on many remote, rural and regional community groups – yet as our Heartbeat of Rural Australia study showed last year, their work is more important than ever. Flexible grant programs like this one, which can support a wide range of community needs, are more important than ever. We are delighted to once again be partnering with Nutrien Ag Solutions to enable this funding to get to the community groups that need it most, so they can help build stronger rural communities.”
Applications for the 2022 Nutrien Ag Solutions Community Grants Program are open now and close 5pm AEST 12 August 2022, with successful applicants announced in October this year. For more information and to apply visit: www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/nutrien-ag-solutions-community-grants-program.
More than 50 communities to benefit from Nutrien Community Grants
Community organisations across rural and regional Australia will share in more than $250,000 as Nutrien Ag Solutions, in partnership with FRRR, announced the recipients from the first round of the Community Grants Program.
![Funding boosts vibrancy and wellbeing of rural communities across Australia](https://frrr.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Nutrien-AG-4-1024x538.png)
This year the program will deliver 57 small grants for projects, leaving a big impact in their local communities.
The funding is directed towards projects that will create long-term positive outcomes that benefit and strengthen local communities.
The projects that have been funded reflect the diversity of communities in which Nutrien Ag Solutions operates and the different needs found in each place. Some of the 57 projects awarded include:
- Hay Inc, NSW – Hay Inc Rural Education Program: Increase access to agricultural training and mentoring through their Rural Education Program – $5,000
- The Historical Society of Katherine, NT – Refurbish Outdoor Function Equipment: Refurbish outdoor function equipment to enhance the facilities and attract Museum visitors – $5,000
- Central Highlands Science Centre Inc, Emerald QLD – Curiosity Club – Exploring STEAM through Engineering, Technology and Robotics: Support and foster inquisitive minds to explore STEAM through engineering, technology and robotics resources – $5,000
- Coomandook Amalgamated Pastime Club, SA – Coomandook Community Postal Agency – Reverse cycle air conditioning unit: Boost volunteer vitality by installing reverse cycle air conditioning at the community-operated Coomandook Postal Agency – $2,685
- Northern Midlands Radio Initiative Inc, Longford TAS – Northern Midlands Radio Initiative Inc Community Radio Development: Build organisational capacity by equipping two new community radio stations – $5,000
- The Trustee for The MAC Trust, Mansfield VIC – No More Silent Movies: Boost access to community activities with the provision of speakers for the Mansfield Outdoor Cinema – $4,335
- Katanning Regional Business Association Inc., WA – Summer Ready: Get summer-ready and build community resilience through disaster preparedness workshops – $2,560
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that this was one of the most popular programs that FRRR has run in recent years, thanks to both its flexibility and the strong connections that local Nutrien staff have in their communities.
“Like FRRR, Nutrien recognises the critical role that community-led groups play in ensuring access to vital services and creating dynamic and vibrant places to live and work. Most of the requests were for infrastructure and equipment, such as mowers and generators, or to upgrade community spaces, and to improve access to services and activities. These things can often be hard to fund, especially in really small communities.
“Thanks to Nutrien’s support, we’ve been able to give some really important community projects the boost they need to address local needs and take advantage of opportunities that will encourage engagement and foster community wellbeing,” Ms Egleton explained.
Carissa Buckland, Nutrien Ag Solutions Director of Corporate Affairs, said that Nutrien is proud to support the rural and regional communities that play such a central role in achievements of the agriculture industry.
“With the ongoing impacts of disasters, including fires, floods and drought, and of course the restrictions of COVID, local fundraising has been a challenge, so we are delighted to be able to fund these important community projects, and help relieve the pressure that many groups are under,” Ms Buckland said.
“We know this seed funding will also allow community groups to leverage the grant and attract the additional funding or in-kind contributions they may need,” Ms Buckland said.
Most of the applications came from outer-regional, remote or very remote areas (75%), again reflecting the challenges in securing funding in those areas. Around a third of the communities that applied have fewer than 500 people. The average funding requested was just under $4,700 and the smallest request was for just under a thousand.
Community groups looking for similar flexible funding are encouraged to visit www.frrr.org.au/funding to explore what other grant programs are available.
If you would like to support grants like this through FRRR, make a tax-deductible donation at https://frrr.org.au/giving/.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES | ||||||
Ardlethan Ariah Park Mirrool Football Club | The Long Lunch - An Event by Northern Jets Boost community connection and general wellbeing with a Long Lunch event for the Ardlethan, Ariah Park and Mirrool communities. | Ariah Park | $5,000 | |||
Barellan Working Clydesdales | Ride-on Lawnmower | Barellan | $5,000 | |||
Belltrees Public School | Regenerative Agriculture - Immersion Excursion Increase access to educational experiences for the children and community of Belltrees and surrounds through the delivery of the Regenerative Agriculture - Immersion Excursion to the Armidale region. | Belltrees | $5,000 | |||
Binnaway P A H and I Assoc Incorp | Supporting Volunteers and the Upkeep of Community Infrastructure through the Purchase of a New Mower for the Binnaway Showground Boost volunteer vitality through the provision of a ride-on mower for the Binnaway PAH and I Association to support maintenance of the community showgrounds. | Binnaway | $5,000 | |||
Coolabah United Citizens Incorporated | Coolabah Bushfire Hazard Reduction & Beautification Boost volunteer vitality and community spirits with the provision of a ride-on mower enabling locals to maintain community assets. | Coolabah | $5,000 | |||
Coonamble Pre School Association Inc | Coonamble Preschool Physical Education Addition Support school readiness and fine motor development of children with the installation of monkey bars at the Coonamble Pre School. | Coonamble | $4,030 | |||
Deniliquin District Cricket Association | Fence Off Public Playground Enhance community safety with the construction of a perimeter fence around the newly installed playground at the Deniliquin Memorial Park. | Deniliquin | $5,000 | |||
Do It For Batlow Incorporated | Origin Pathway Enhance local identity with the installation of the Origin Pathway, celebrating the birth of locals at the Old Batlow Hospital, which was tragically lost in the Black Summer fires. | Batlow | $4,512 | |||
North Star Memorial Hall & Park Committee Gwydir Shire Council | Supply and Installation of Eight Ceiling Fans Improve usability at the local hall through the installation of ceiling fans at the North Star Memorial Hall. | North Star | $4,500 | |||
Hay Inc | Hay Inc Rural Education Program Increase access to Agricultural training and mentoring with the provision of training resources and equipment and catering of a mentoring dinner for participants. | Hay | $5,000 | |||
Inverell Show Society | Inverell Show Society Upgrade to the Public Address System at the Inverell Showground Boost organisational capacity with the installation of an upgraded public announcement system at the Inverell Show Grounds. | Inverell | $5,000 | |||
Muswellbrook South Public School P & C Association | Supporting Sustainability Project Purchase equipment for school recycling and sustainability programs to provide students with hands-on sensory experiences along with many learning opportunities that are inclusive of students with varying needs such as emotional, social, cognitive, and behavioural. | Muswellbrook | $4,732 | |||
Peak Hill Pony Club Inc | Multi-use Grandstand for Community Events Grow community participation with the provision of a transportable grandstand for the Peak Hill Community at the Peak Hill Showgrounds. | Peak Hill | $3,924 | |||
Rankins Springs Golf Club Incorporated | Kitchen Delivery Entrance and Disabled Entrance Build community resilience through upgrading kitchen and disability access. | Rankins Springs | $4,321 | |||
Tenterfield Show Society Incorporated | Tenterfield Showgrounds BBQ Shed Refurbishment Upgrade community infrastructure for Tenterfield by contributing to the BBQ shed refurbishment. | Tenterfield | $5,000 | |||
West Wyalong Branch The United Hospital Auxiliaries of NSW Inc | West Wyalong Hospital Auxiliary Provision of Additional Medical Equipment (Medical Patient Wight Scale) for the Local West Wyalong Hospital Increase capacity of medical facility to accurately measure and weigh patients improving medical outcomes and staff conditions. | West Wyalong | $2,918 | |||
Woodstock and District Progress Association | Restoring Ghost Signs in the Woodstock Village Precinct Build community resilience through restoration of signage that has historical significance to the Woodstock district on buildings within the main precinct of the Woodstock village. | Woodstock | $5,000 | |||
NORTHERN TERRITORY | ||||||
The Historical Society of Katherine NT | Refurbish Outdoor Function Equipment - The Katherine Museum Enhance tourism destinations by supplying new outdoor tables and chairs at the Katherine Museum. | Katherine | $5,000 | |||
QUEENSLAND | ||||||
Burdekin Potters Inc | Purchase of Three Electric Pottery Wheels Increase organisational capacity with the purchase of three pottery wheels for the Burdekin Potters, enabling access to opportunities for self-expression through the arts for the community. | Ayr | $4,475 | |||
Bymount East Primary P&C Assn | Bymount East School 75 Year Reunion Boost community spirits and sense of belonging by providing support for the 75th Anniversary Celebrations for the Bymount East Primary School. | Bymount | $2,000 | |||
Central Highlands Science Centre Inc | Curiosity Club - Exploring STEAM through Engineering, Technology and Robotics Support and foster inquisitive minds across the Central Highlands through the provision of STEAM resources at the Centre Highlands Science Centre. | Emerald | $5,000 | |||
Murgon P A & H Society Inc | Building Connections from the Ground Up Build community resilience through upgrading facilities at the Murgon showgrounds to improve access and capacity for revenue raising. | Murgon | $5,000 | |||
Pikedale Community Inc | "Sip and Socialise" By the Screen Build community resilience through funding home theatre equipment for community screenings and get togethers in Pikedale. | Pikes Creek | $4,988 | |||
Taroom Shire Cancer & Palliative Care Group Inc | New Lift Chairs & Knee Walker Support palliative care patients living in their homes in Taroom and surrounds by providing access to lift chairs and an additional knee walker, increasing patient comfort and reducing stress for carers. | Taroom | $4,095 | |||
SOUTH AUSTRALIA | ||||||
South East Youth Development Project T/as Noorla Yo-Long Blue Light SA Inc | Noorla Yo-Long Blue Light Adventure - Replacement Climbing Equipment | Rendelsham | $4,337 | |||
Coomandook Amalgamated Pastime Club | Coomandook Community Postal Agency - Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning Unit Boost volunteer vitality by installing reverse cycle air conditioning at the community operated Coomandook Postal Agency. | Coomandook | $2,685 | |||
Jervois Football Club Inc | Installation of Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning to the Jervois Combined Sports Club Venue Improve community facility with reverse cycle air conditioning installation at local sports club. | Jervois | $3,490 | |||
Keith and Tintanara District Show Society Inc | Keith Showgrounds Paved Access Area Improve facilities for safety and access at the Community Hub Building at the showgrounds. | Keith | $4,991 | |||
Kyancutta Ramblers Golf Club Incorporated | Equipment Upgrade (Mower) Boost volunteer and community vitality with the provision of a ride-on mower to support volunteers in maintaining community assets in Kyancutta and surrounds. | Kyancutta | $5,000 | |||
Lameroo Forward Incorporated | Lameroo Country Arts Events 2022 Enable access to develop a culturally vibrant community through funding for culture program including a disability choir. | Lameroo | $5,000 | |||
Lions Club of Tintinara | Reliable Power for the Tintinara Lions Club Catering Caravan, Community Events and Emergency Use Purchase a trailer mounted generator which will give the Club the ability to take our catering caravan to any event regardless of the availability of power & also to give us a reliable power supply at community events and for local emergency and natural disaster management. | Tintinara | $5,000 | |||
Penneshaw CWA Penneshaw Progress Association Incorporated | Reinstate Penneshaw Community Health Centre Facilities Improve access to health services by upgrading disabled toilet facilities and installing a split system air conditioner at the Community Health Centre to support the reinstatement of Penneshaw Community Health Services. | Penneshaw | $5,000 | |||
TASMANIA | ||||||
Flinders Island Show Society Inc | The Flinders Island Show Increase organisational capacity to support community events with the purchase of marquees for the Flinders Island Show Society. | Whitemark | $4,804 | |||
Huon Valley Police & Community Youth Club Inc | Healthy Cafe and Cooking for Seniors Enhance community facilities for older people through a youth training healthy cafe enterprise. | Huonville | $5,000 | |||
Lower Barrington Community Hall Inc | Lower Barrington Hall Disability Friendly Bathroom Project Stage 1 Improve community access to facilities via the upgrade of bathroom facilities and infrastructure. | Lower Barrington | $5,000 | |||
Meander Liffey Resource Management Group Inc | Meander Forest Picnic Ground Enhance community facilities by providing four shaded picnic tables at the Meander Forest Picnic Grounds. | Meander | $5,000 | |||
Northern Midlands Radio Initiative (NMRI) Inc | Northern Midlands Radio Initiative Inc (NMRI Inc) Community Radio Development Build organisational capacity by equipping two new community radio stations in the Northern Midlands. | Longford | $5,000 | |||
VICTORIA | ||||||
Bahgallah Memorial Hall Incorporated | Bahgallah Memorial Hall External Upgrade Support volunteer vitality while ensuring the longevity of the Bahgallah Memorial Hall by restoring and painting the external of the building. | Bahgallah | $4,416 | |||
Boort Resource and Information Centre | Upgrade Three Computer Hard Drives in the Front Office at the Boort Resource and Information Centre Boost volunteer vitality with the replacement of outdated technology at the Boort Resource and Information Centre. | Boort | $5,000 | |||
Cavendish Recreation Reserve | Multi-Purpose Community Events Space and Storage Facility Multi-Purpose Community Events Space and Storage Facility - development of new community facility. | Cavendish | $5,000 | |||
Birch Group of Fire Brigades Country Fire Authority - Head Office | FCV Response Equipment Fundraising Boost community and volunteer safety through the purchase of a chainsaw, power supply and lighting for the area command vehicle of the Birch group of CFA Brigades. | Creswick | $2,515 | |||
Hopetoun & District Neighbourhood House Inc | Hopetoun Community Gym - A Comfortable Climate for the Whole Community Installation of air conditioners to support community gym use. | Hopetoun | $5,000 | |||
Mitchell Community Radio Incorporated | Broadford Monthly OKR FM conducts a live broadcast from the Broadford Living and Learning Centre on the third Thursday of each month from 1pm to 3pm. It costs $160 per month for room hire, 4G device recharge and Audio Technician. OKR provides all the necessary equipment. The grant would allow 10 months. | Broadford | $1,600 | |||
St Arnaud Neighbourhood House Inc | St Arnaud House and Shed Garden Build community resilience through the construction of a vegetable garden at the St Arnaud Neighbourhood Centre. | St Arnaud | $1,703 | |||
The Leongatha Men's Shed | Ablutions Infrastructure - Leongatha Men’s Shed Contribute to the development of a new facility with purpose built ablutions infrastructure. | Leongatha | $5,000 | |||
The Trustee for The MAC Trust | No More Silent Movies Boost access to community activities with the provision of speakers for the Mansfield Outdoor Cinema. | Mansfield | $4,335 | |||
Walpeup Memorial Hall | Walpeup Memorial Hall Renovations: Stage 3 Build community resilience through extensive maintenance work at the Walpeup Memorial Hall, supporting community activity and memorabilia display. | Walpeup | $5,000 | |||
Woodleigh Hall Committee Inc | Woodleigh Hall Toilet Extension Build organisation capacity through installing disability access toilets and complete an upgrade of the hall facility. | Woodleigh | $5,000 | |||
WESTERN AUSTRALIA | ||||||
Wally Foreman Sports Museum Committee Bruce Rock Community Resource Centre Inc | Wally Foreman Sports Museum Preserve and promote community sporting heritage by employing a curation contractor to identify and develop a curation plan and train committee members at the Wally Foreman Sports Museum. | Bruce Rock | $5,000 | |||
Dardanup Bull and Barrel Festival Inc | A Storage Shed Will Save Our Backs and Time Increase storage capacity for the Dardanup Bull and Barrel Festival Inc. by building a shed to store community equipment. | Dardanup | $5,000 | |||
Gardiner Street Arts Collective | Harmony Room Refurbishment Increase access to community facilities that foster creativity and connection by repainting and refurnishing the Harmony Room at the Gardiner Street Arts Collective. | Moora | $5,000 | |||
Katanning Regional Business Association Inc | Summer Ready Build community resilience through disaster preparedness workshops for the women of Katanning | Katanning | $2,500 | |||
Napier Progress Association Inc | Replace Napier Hall Eaves Improve community facility with the replacement of eaves, enhancing patron comfort and utility. | Napier | $5,000 | |||
Ongerup Sporting Complex | Installing Café Blinds on the Veranda At the Ongerup Sporting Complex Increase usability of community infrastructure with the installation of Café blinds at the Ongerup Sporting Complex. | Ongerup | $5,000 | |||
Ravensthorpe Community Resource Centre Inc | HR Help for Our Local Heroes Grow community volunteerism with human resources support for local not-for-profit organisations throughout Ravensthorpe region. | Ravensthorpe | $5,000 | |||
Shire of Cunderdin | Youth Wellness Project Build community resilience through wellness program targeted for youth mental health including parents' education. | Cunderdin | $5,000 | |||
W.A. Bush Fire Museum and Heritage Group Inc | Purchase of Laptop Computer for W.A. Bush Fire Museum and Heritage Group Purchase of laptop computer with software for the recording of documents, photos and artefacts for W.A. Bush Fire Museum and Heritage Group. | Bridgetown | $998 |