Twenty-seven community-led groups in remote, rural and regional NSW will share in $912,505 awarded through the Resilience NSW COVID Regional Community Support (CRCS) program.

Funded by the NSW Government and administered by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), the grants were allocated to grassroots community groups and not-for-profit organisations that helped their communities navigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the funding stream would help these groups build resilience and better mitigate the impact of pandemics and other disasters across their communities.

“We awarded between $3,363 and $50,000 to organisations, to support a wide range of regional capacity building initiatives to help enhance community wellbeing, create stronger local economies, and enable a greater ability to respond to future challenges,” Ms Cooke said.

“The pandemic has posed plenty of difficulties for people and families in remote and regional areas over the past two years, and community-led organisations played an important role in navigating those challenges.”

Ms Cooke said some of the common requests from community groups involved facility improvements, food security and assisting with the increased demand on local services in flood-devastated areas such as the Northern Rivers.

“We’ve been able to address some of these needs through this funding stream, to ensure these groups and the communities they work with are in better stead for the future.”

Some of the 27 funded projects include:

• Agape Outreach Inc in Tweed Heads to improve staff and volunteer resilience and increase capacity to support the community through mental health and wellbeing training – $36,600.
• Forster Neighbourhood Centre Inc in Forster to promote organisational capacity and support local access to essential services by contributing to the fit-out of the new Forster Neighbourhood Centre – $50,000.
• Gunnedah Meals on Wheels Association in Gunnedah to improve the capacity of Gunnedah Meals on Wheels to support vulnerable community members through a hamper program and the purchase of a large deep freezer – $8,150.
• LeaderLife Ltd in Dubbo to grow organisational resilience and support skills development in local youth through a new syntropic farming system – $50,000.
• Sustainable Agriculture and Gardening Eurobodalla in Moruya to increase organisational capacity and promote food security in the Eurobodalla Shire through the hiring of a Business Manager – $50,000.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said the grants acknowledge and will strengthen the capacity of regional organisations in NSW who played such a critical role in supporting communities throughout COVID-19 challenges. 

“The impact of the pandemic has been significant and is still being felt,” Ms Egleton said. “The flexibility of this program recognised that every community is different and requires tailored support and funding to ensure that they can continue to provide vital services, bring people and community organisations together and enable locally-led responses as and when required.

“Being able to support the many community organisations and not-for-profits who have gone above and beyond for their communities during such difficult times and enable them to be better prepared in the future is important to the ongoing sustainability and vibrancy of these communities.”

A complete list of the projects supported is below.

Grant funding is now available to support communities in remote, rural and regional Queensland and New South Wales who have been impacted by this year’s flooding events.

Suncorp and GIO have partnered with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), through the Rebuilding Futures program, to offer $500,000 in grants of up to $25,000 to help not-for-profit groups and local community organisations to rebuild and recover from this year’s flood events.

Suncorp’s Head of Flood Response and Recovery, Cath Stewart, said that this funding recognises that while the initial clean up may have concluded, many community groups still have a lot of work to do to support their community’s ongoing recovery.

“The floods were devastating and, sadly, some places were affected more than once. On top of weather events and the impacts of COVID, not to mention the increased costs of living that are putting pressure on local businesses and community members, many groups are finding it really hard to access resources they need to support their community.

“These grants, which can be used to support locally-identified recovery and rebuilding priorities, will hopefully relieve some of those pressures and allow the communities to start moving forward,” said Ms Stewart.

FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton, said that Suncorp and GIO’s support means that there is flexible funding available to help communities rebuild and be better prepared for future disaster events.

“We know that local community leaders are the ones who are best placed to know what their community needs. That’s why we made sure these grants can fund a wide range of activities, events, initiatives and small-scale infrastructure or equipment projects. The aim is to ensure that the community can build resilience by improving facilities for mitigation and preparedness and creating opportunities to reconnect, share experiences or support overall wellbeing and improved mental health, in whatever way makes most sense to that community.

“We look forward to engaging with these groups and are hoping that for some the grant opportunity can be a catalyst for projects that reduce the impact of future disasters on community wellbeing and physical infrastructure,” Ms Egleton explained.

For more information about who is eligible and what can be funded, visit www.frrr.org.au/Rebuilding-Futures.

A Grant Seeking Workshop including a Q&A on the Rebuilding Future’s grant program will be held online from 1 – 2pm AEST Tuesday 23 August 2022.

Applications close 28 September 2022.

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.

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.

Includes more than $640,000 to support 2019-20 bushfire recovery

FRRR has awarded $1,062,484 in grants for 85 projects that will help boost remote, rural and regional communities across Australia, through its Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program.

The grants awarded will go toward a broad array of inspiring initiatives that will strengthen and build the long-term viability and vitality of smaller remote, rural, and regional communities across Australia, including projects to support community healing and renewal following the 2019/2020 bushfires.

Grants range from $2,700 to help the South Australian Beachport community access lifesaving equipment, through to a $25,000 grant to improve the security and amenities at the Corryong Community Hall in Victoria.

The SRC program is collaboratively-funded and offers two streams of funding. Small & Vital awards grants up to $10,000 for locally-led initiatives that build resilience and enhance the vibrancy of rural Australia by addressing the needs identified by the community. This round of SRC has seen 49 projects sharing in a total of $420,003 in Small & Vital grants.

The second stream provides grants up to $25,000 for projects designed to help seed and strengthen the recovery of regions impacted by the Black Summer bushfires. Thirty-six bushfire recovery initiatives have been awarded a total of $642,481 in this round of SRC grants.

Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that over the past year rural people have demonstrated the true meaning of resilience and determination and continued to find ways of addressing the needs of their communities.

“The pandemic has highlighted that community groups need to be agile and able to adapt and respond to changing circumstances. To do this successfully, they need to be well resourced, with facilities, equipment and the right knowledge, skills and capabilities. The pandemic has also reinforced the importance of community-led initiatives that promote individual and community health and social wellbeing.”

“Several grassroots solutions designed to support these key initiatives and develop these vital skills have been awarded grants in this round of SRC, including the Oura Oura House – Interpretation Room project in Cygnet, Tasmania, which will strengthen connection to local Aboriginal culture, and in Biggenden, Queensland, the primary school is supporting student health and wellbeing through an amenities upgrade.

“Recovery in bushfire-affected regions has been hampered by COVID-19 restrictions, but local organisations are still seeking to do what they can to meet the local priorities in their community. This round we saw an increase in requests to fund projects that will provide access to services and activities as impacted communities begin to resume normal activities and reconnect one year on from the fires. This includes Tenterfield in NSW, where a series of creative workshops will support the social and mental health of locals.

“Improving and repairing infrastructure is also an important part of the recovery process for many of these communities. These meeting places, like Katanning’s central shopping precinct in Western Australia and the local Hall in Charleston, South Australia, played a vital role during the bushfires, providing the community with a safe place to gather during the fires, or as a space to gather in order to reconnect and seek support after the disaster,” Ms Egleton explained.

Some of the 85 projects awarded include:

• Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service Ltd, NSW – 35^th Anniversary Celebration – $9,443 – Celebrate WAMS’ 35 years of service in the community by holding a series of events throughout 2021.
• Careflight Limited, NT – Obstetrics Training for CareFlight Flight Nurses – $8,800 – Improve safety and health outcomes for babies and mothers from remote communities with Midwifery Training for Careflight nurses.
• Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Community Radio Association Inc, QLD – Stanthorpe Community Radio Transmission Equipment – $9,773 – Increase communication of local news, events and emergency information, by supporting the establishment of a community radio station.
• Nipapanha Community Aboriginal Corporation, SA – Irish Well Hut Cultural Heritage Museum Development – $9,300 – Help people gain an awareness of local culture through the provision of display material for a museum.
• East Coast Regional Development Organisation Inc, TAS – Raising the Roof on the Bread Oven – $5,332 – Encourage people to come together by redeveloping a community gathering space.
• Corryong Neighbourhood House Inc, VIC – Giving Youth a Voice – $25,000 – Increase youth representation in community recovery and development, through employment of youth workers to support youth leadership in the Upper Murray.
• Fitzgerald Biosphere Group Inc, WA – Dancing in the Dirt Gala Ball – A Community Event – $5,000 – Build community wellbeing and strengthen mental health by supporting ‘Dancing in the Dirt’ Gala for small, drought stricken community.  

The SRC program is collaboratively supported by a number of generous donors, which are listed here – https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/strengthening-rural-communities/.

The next round of SRC applications is currently being assessed and will be announced by June 2021. The current round is accepting applications until 25 May 2021, with funds to be awarded in September.

Visit here for more information on FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities program and other grant programs to strengthen local non-profits, community groups, volunteers, and to provide opportunities for skills, networks and leadership development.

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

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

Jump to: NSW | NT | QLD | SA | TAS | VIC | WA

More than 100 projects funded across Australia

More than 100 projects set to strengthen remote, rural and regional Australia have been given an encouraging boost, with 96 communities sharing in $1,112,492 in grants, thanks to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program.

The successful communities, which range across Australia from remote Kintore in the Northern Territory, to Jundah in Queensland and Leonora in Western Australia, will use the grants of up to $25,000 for a broad range of inspiring projects.

Led by local people, these initiatives vary from encouraging young people from Arnhem Land communities to connect with culture and make healthy lifestyle choices by getting them involved in creating edible garden plots, to helping the community of South Arm continue its recovery following the Black Summer bushfires by purchasing amenities and safety equipment to prepare the local hall for future disaster events.

It’s just one of 34 grants going to communities with the unique challenge of overcoming the impacts of the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires. Supported through a special stream of funding, these regions will share in $589,945 in grants for projects designed to help seed and strengthen their recovery.

Sarah Matthee, FRRR’s Acting CEO, said that communities have found diverse ways to build up their resilience and support one another.

“This round we have seen communities drawing on their strong community partnerships to find ways of helping to make their community a more resilient and connected place,” Ms Matthee said.

“Communities have also shown us how much they value the vital contributions made by volunteers. We have funded several projects that support and recognise these people, and help tackle the fatigue they feel, especially in light of this year’s challenges.

“For bushfire-affected communities, COVID-19 has not lessened their determination to keep on recovering, despite the pandemic resulting in gatherings and events, which would have helped people connect and rebuild, being postponed or cancelled. Local leaders have put forward great ideas that are sure to help lift community spirits.

“Regardless of where these communities are at, the SRC program is flexible enough to fund projects that will help communities to seed strengthen, adapt and evolve, and innovate and renew,” Ms Matthee explained.

Some of the 101 projects awarded include:

• Dalaigur Pre-school and Children’s Services Aboriginal Corporation, NSW – Transportation 2021 – $10,000 – Increase Kempsey children’s access to educational, social and health opportunities by providing a bus service for Aboriginal Early Childhood Education Services students.
• West Daly Regional Council, NT – West Daly Regional Council’s Community BBQ Trailer – $9,068 – Create a more engaged community and enhance locals’ sense of place by purchasing a BBQ trailer that will be used during emergency and disaster relief efforts and for community events.
• Pomona & District Community House Inc, QLD – Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project – $18,891 – Increase access, support and resources for local youth in Pomona by delivering a facilitated, structured community-based youth program.
• Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc, SA – Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard – $24,640 – Increase access to local produce and the social and economic recovery of Kangaroo Island by employing a part-time project manager to help reopen the Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market and develop a pop-up activity space.
• Live Well Tasmania, TAS – Renovating our Community Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing – $9,980 – Create a safe space for youth by renovating the local Community Centre.
• Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail, VIC – Tour de Trail – $3,700 – Promote health and wellbeing by encouraging people to participate in a bike-ride/fun day event in Mansfield in March 2021.
• Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation, WA – Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (Kala) in Ngadju Country $25,000 – Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance by clearing tracks to make access easier for cultural mosaic burns.

The SRC program is collaboratively supported by a number of generous donors, which are listed on the Strengthening Rural Communities program page.

The next round of SRC grants will be announced March 2021. The current round is accepting applications until 23 February 2021.

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

Jump to: NSW | NT | QLD | SA | TAS | VIC | WA

Organisation	Project	Location	Awarded
NEW SOUTH WALES
Hillston and District Aquatic Club Inc	Upgrade Lake Woorabinda Access to Water Build community resilience and engagement in water activities through the upgrade and drought proofing of Lake Woorabinda.	Hillston	$10,000
Mendooran & District Development Group	Main Street Seating in Mendooran Strengthen community connection through the provision of safe seating and exterior upgrade Masonic Lodge.	Mendooran	$841
Collins Creek Public Hall Land Manager	Improvements to Acoustic Properties of the Collins Creek Community Hall Enhance community identity through improving the acoustic quality of the Community Hall.	Collins Creek	$10,000
Gilgandra Council	Capturing the Memories and Local Characters Promote social inclusion and wellbeing by documenting stories from residents of Cooee Lodge and Jack Towney Hostel.	Gilgandra	$10,000
Lightning Ridge Opal and Fossil Centre Inc	Australian Opal Centre (AOC) 2021-2023 Strategic Plan Development Project Build organisational resilience through the development of a 3 year strategic plan for the Lightening Ridge Fossil and Opal Centre.	Lightning Ridge	$10,000
Tenterfield Show Society Inc	Connecting 1876 and 2020 Contribute to a culturally vibrant community through preservation and display of locally significant artifacts and memorabilia.	Tenterfield	$10,000
Circartus Inc	Circartus Train the Trainer Strengthen Circartus organisational capacity by delivering a train the trainer program.	Wingham	$9,970
Kootingal and District Pre-School Inc	Aboriginal Program and Clay Program Strengthen engagement with Aboriginal culture through the delivery of a program of structured play activities for preschool children at Kootingal & District Preschool.	Kootingal	$8,000
Burringbar School of Arts	Purchase and Installation of Commercial Dishwasher Increase volunteer capacity through the purchase of a commercial dishwasher for Burringbar School of Arts.	Burringbar	$4,698
Dalaigur Pre-school and Children’s Services Aboriginal Corporation	Transportation 2021 Enable access to quality learning environments through the provision of transport services for young children to attend Dalaigur Pre-school.	Kempsey	$10,000
Howlong Toy Library	The Power of ‘Picnics and Play’ Enrich local community interaction through the purchase of resources for a series of mindful play and dinner events for families and children in Howlong.	Howlong	$5,541
Kendall Mens Shed	Routing Increase organisational capacity through the purchase of a router to support fundraising capacity for Kendall Men’s Shed members.	Kendall	$2,463
Utungun Community Hall Section 355 Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council	Utungun Hall – Sitting Pretty and Moving Safely Support Volunteer capacity through the purchase of chairs and equipment for Utungun Community Hall.	Utungun	$4,020
Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network Hawkesbury River County Council	Regenerating our Bushland after Fire, Hawkesbury Increase local capacity to manage environmental recovery, through delivery of a series of workshops and events on topics such as weed management and erosion.	Bilpin	$16,000
Community Foundation for Albury Wodonga Region Ltd	Digital Storytelling Celebrate and encourage local giving post-bushfire via a digital storytelling project.	Albury	$10,000
Glenrac Incorporated	Emergency Preparedness for Future Challenges – Glen Innes NSW Increase support for recovering community, through delivery of wellbeing events and mental health first aid training.	Glen Innes	$17,150
Marine Rescue Kioloa Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW	Marine Rescue Base Facilities Upgrade Increase local capacity to maintain volunteer marine rescue service base facility, though replacement of carpet.	Kioloa – Bawley Point	$5,000
Eden Tourism Inc	Relocation of Eden Visitor Information Centre Increase amenity and function of new Eden Visitor Information Centre, through professional design and development of internal areas.	Eden	$20,000
Hartley Vale Mount Blaxland Reserve Land Manager	Ground Penetrating Radar Survey Heal the community through the establishment of all burial sites located at the Hartley Vale Cemetery.	Hartley	$16,016
Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club Inc.	Replacement of Community Infrastructure – The Boating and Fishing Jetty at Spencer Park Merimbula Lake Increase capacity to fundraise for replacement of local jetty, though support to complete development application and design planning.	Merimbula	$14,850
South Arm Hall Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council	Making South Arm Hall Resilient, Welcoming and Aiding Recovery Strengthen South Arm Hall’s resilience and preparedness for future disaster events through the purchase of safety and amenity items.	South Arm	$25,000
Nimbin Community Centre Incorporated	Walkways Together – from Jarjums to Elders Support community resilience through replacement of covered walkways at Nimbin Community Centre.	Nimbin	$9,700
The Southern Highlands Foundation	FireAid Bushfire Appeal/Covid-19 Appeal Strengthen capacity of the Foundation to support their community post bushfire through the employment of an Executive Officer.	Balmoral	$25,000
Bombala Pre School Inc	Urban & Indigenous Agriculture Project Increase local resilience and intergenerational connections, through construction of codesigned community space and permaculture skills.	Bombala	$15,000
Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre Inc	Play in Nature Support early childhood development through the construction of a Natural Playground at Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre.	Evans Head	$9,575
Salt Care Limited	Salt Life Support vulnerable cohorts across Shoalhaven via support groups facilitated by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program.	Nowra/ Bomaderry	$15,000
The Elands Community Health & First Aid Centre Incorporated	Refurbishments for Community Centre Increase comfort and capacity of Elands local meeting space, through installation of air conditioning and solar system with battery.	Elands	$24,102
Ettrick Hall Committee Inc	Ettrick Hall Bathroom Upgrade Increase local capacity and disaster preparedness, through upgrading bathroom facilities at local hall to include a shower for emergency personal and displaced residents.	Ettrick	$10,000
Do It For Batlow	Weemala Hill Walking and Riding Trails – Batlow Lookout Renew access to local walking trails that support health and wellbeing through employment of contractors to clear burnt trees and reinvigorate the area.	Batlow	$25,000
Macdonald Valley Association	Macdonald Valley Community – Book of Fires Advance the recovery of the Macdonald Valley through the creation of a book which documents and celebrates community resilience.	St Albans	$22,870
Pambula Business Chamber Incorporated	Pambula Art Project Increase visitation to the region and highlight local history and culture, through development and installation of a series of artworks across the Pambula township.	Pambula	$25,000
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Assoc (Aboriginal Corporation)	40 Years of CAAMA – Compilation Album Set Celebrate and promote Indigenous culture and musicianship through creation of four CD set of Central Australian Indigenous music.	Alice Springs	$10,000
One Tree Community Services Inc	Green Book Increase accessibility and feelings of security and inclusion with the creation of restful outdoor space at Wadeye Women’s Refuge.	Wadeye	$8,000
MJD Foundation Ltd	MJD International Centre of Excellence – Umbakumba Enable provision of allied health services and research for sufferers of Machado Joseph Disease on Groote Eylandt through fit out of accommodation for researchers and allied health workers.	Umbakumba	$10,000
East Arnhem Regional Council	Healthier Eating through Edible Gardens in East Arnhem Indigenous Communities Support community engagement and active lifestyles, leading to healthier outcomes for community members, with the establishment of edible gardens.	Milingimbi	$10,000
Katherine Isolated Children’s Service Incorporated	Remote Mobile Playgroup Create equal opportunities for early childhood development through access to mobile playgroups in very remote locations across Central Australia.	Katherine	$10,000
West Daly Regional Council	West Daly Regional Council’s Community BBQ Trailer Build community connectedness and support social connection through provision of a BBQ trailer for Council and community run events.	Wadeye	$9,068
QUEENSLAND
The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited	C&K Hoey Street’s Sustainable Food Forest Foster healthy eating habits and connection to the environment, through the establishment of a sustainable food garden at the local kindergarten.	Sarina	$1,252
Cloncurry Kindergarten Association Inc	Screens for outside buildings Increase educational opportunities at Cloncurry Kindergarten through the provision of retractable screens for outdoor buildings.	Cloncurry	$10,000
Abergowrie Primary P&C Association	The Voices of our Yarning Circle Support cultural literacy and community engagement in education through the building of a landscaped Yarning Circle.	Ingham	$10,000
Bana Mindilji Aboriginal Corporation	Installation of Composting Toilets on Country Promote environmental sustainability and organisational capacity through the installation of composting toilets at remote station.	Wujal Wujal	$10,000
Burdekin Woodcrafts Association Incorporated	Kitchen Replacement Strengthen community engagement through upgrade of kitchen facilities at the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association.	Ayr	$9,765
Focus on Food and Fibre Conference Nindigully Landcare Group Incorporated	Focus on Food and Fibre Conference Build community and agricultural resilience through support for food and fibre conference.	St George	$10,000
Jundah Local Ambulance Committee	Emergency Response Training Improve emergency response capacity by enabling volunteers to participate in training.	Jundah	$3,250
Kilkivan Show & Campdraft Association Inc	Defibtech Lifeline Package & Community COVID-19 Pack Support community safety and health outcomes, through the purchase of a defibrillator machine and community COVID-19 pack.	Kilkivan	$5,228
QCWA St George Branch The Queensland Country Women’s Association	QCWA St George – Empowerment Through Technology! Help people stay connected by purchase of IT equipment to increase the digital capacity of local CWA.	St George	$1,969
Queensland Rural Regional and Remote Women’s Network Incorporated	Advancing towards 2030. Increase digital capability and capacity through the purchase of integrated membership and fundraising IT platform.	Goondiwindi	$10,000
Roughlie Community Centre Incorporated	Purchase of 2 Refrigerators for Cold Storage Develop organisational resilience and capacity through the purchase of refrigerator for community centre.	Roma	$4,798
Texas & District Kindergarten Association Inc	Replace Two Non-compliant Fences at Texas Kindergarten. Support a safe outdoor early learning environment through upgrade of fencing at local kindergarten.	Texas	$6,974
Artworks Granite Belt Inc.	ArtWorks Station Cafe upgrade Increase capacity and enhance facilities at volunteer run Artworks Station Cafe, through upgrade of kitchen and outdoor eating area.	Stanthorpe	$9,066
Pomona & District Community House Inc	Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project Increase access to support and resources for local youth in Pomona, through delivery of a facilitated, structured community based youth program.	Pomona	$18,891
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Scouts SA – Roonka Water Activity Centre Scout Association of Aust SA Branch	Tree Planting and Installation of Solar Powered Watering System Restore and conserve local habitat and generate community engagement through the creation of a native garden.	Blanchetown	$4,139
Port Neill War Memorial Hall	Inclusion and Access for All at our Hall Enhance community well-being and connectedness and improve the amenity of a community hall through the installation of an all ability toilet.	Port Neill	$8,034
Mannum Men’s Shed Inc	Continue to Work by Purchasing a Thicknesser Increase social engagement by purchasing new equipment and strengthen the Men’s Shed capacity to support participants and deliver community projects.	Mannum	$1,299
Parndana Progress Association – Walking Trail Sub-Committee Parndana Progress Association	Parndana Fitness Trail – Outdoor Gym Station Increase access to equipment that supports health and wellbeing, through installation of outdoor fitness equipment at Kangaroo Island West Lions Park.	Parndana	$16,838
Kangaroo Island Yacht Club Inc	Community Hub Upgrade to Support Community Resilience Enhance community activities that support connectedness at the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club, through upgrade of aged kitchen facilities.	Kingscote	$25,000
Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc	Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard Increase support for reopening of community market and development of pop up activity space in Kingscote, through employment of a part time project manager.	Kingscote	$24,640
The Cudlee Creek Tennis & Basket Ball Club Inc	A Community Led Project: Our Community Hub and Tennis Courts Increase preparedness for disaster and enhanced community facilities for a community recovering from bushfire, through upgrade of fencing, drainage, water storage and landscaping at local hub.	Cudlee Creek	$25,000
TASMANIA
Lorinna Residents & Ratepayers Association Inc	Lorinna Hall Improved Access Project Enhance community well-being and connectedness and improve the amenity of a community hall through the installation of an all ability access ramp.	Lorinna	$2,000
Live Well Tasmania	Renovating Our Community Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing Create a secure hospitable meeting space and support youth engagement through conducting roof maintenance at a community centre.	Wynyard	$9,980
Dorset Community Association Inc	Outreach and Support Equipment Upgrades Build organisational capacity and increase community engagement through the purchase of equipment for a Neighbourhood House.	Scottsdale	$9,790
Lilydale Volunteer Fire Brigade State Fire Commission (Tas)	Lilydale Community Smoke Alarm Project Increase safety and build community awareness through the operation of a fire safety project.	Lilydale	$7,000
VICTORIA
Friends of Grampians Rail Trail Inc	Grampians Rail Trail Emergency Marker Posts Provide a safe community resource and strengthen opportunities for social engagement through the development of a recreation trail.	Stawell	$9,111
Castlemaine Community House Inc	Food Links – Strengthening Local Food Security Improve community health, wellbeing, and educational development through the establishment of a food security program.	Castlemaine	$10,000
Colac Area Health Foundation	Saving Lives in the Colac Community Improve community health and well-being outcomes through the purchase of healthcare equipment for use in a local Hospital.	Colac	$10,000
Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail	Tour de Trail Enhance well-being outcomes and strengthen community connection through the initiation of a community event.	Mansfield	$3,700
Penshurst Progress Association Inc	Aiding our Community Communication and Cooperation Increase community engagement, volunteer support and social opportunities, through the purchase of a new printer.	Penshurst	$8,000
Central Highlands Rural Health	Transforming Aged Care Residents’ Quality of Life Improve the health and social wellbeing of people living with dementia by providing a interactive games program for residents.	Daylesford	$10,000
Cobden District Health Services Inc	Cobden Health Boiler Room Upgrade Strengthen organisational capacity and support the needs of residents through the upgrade of a boiler-room system.	Cobden	$10,000
Cycling Without Age Portland Inc Rotary Club of Portland Inc	Cycling Without Age on the Move Strengthen community connections for older people and support volunteer participation though the commencement of a cycling project.	Portland	$9,000
Paynesville Men’s Shed Inc	Let there be Lunch! Improve mental health and social outcomes for older men in the community by upgrading a kitchen and delivering a healthy eating program.	Paynesville	$4,123
St Arnaud Neighbourhood House Inc	The Life Story Projects Improve social participation and the health and wellbeing of aged care residents, through the enhancement of a life story project.	Donald	$6,810
West Wimmera Health Service	Friends Across the Ages Gone Digital Improve the health and social wellbeing of older people by initiating a community connections program.	Nhill	$10,000
Boort Resource and Information Centre	Boort Business and Services Resource Hub Improve community participation and access to services and education through the development of a fit for purpose community hub.	Boort	$10,000
Community Recovery Committee Bunyip Complex Fires Association Inc	Tonimbuk Hall Upgrade Increase community participation and engagement through installation of a climate control system and the upgrade of a Community Hall.	Tonimbuk	$9,990
Cowangie Soldiers Memorial Hall	New Blockout Blinds Strengthen community engagement and participation by replacing coverings which are no longer fit for purpose and creating a space that meets community needs.	Cowangie	$4,000
Kilmore District Men’s Shed Inc	Equipment Promote learning and development and build organisational capacity through the purchase of new technology.	Kilmore	$2,933
Paynesville RSL Sub-Branch	A Warm Glow for Better Health Increase community participation and engagement through installation of a climate control system, creating a comfortable gathering space.	Paynesville	$10,000
Southern Otway Landcare Network Inc	SOLN Support Centre’s Community Shed Increase environmental education and community participation through the creation of a secure, hospitable space.	Apollo Bay	$10,000
Swan Hill Specialist School	SHSS Community Garden Strengthen student engagement and skill development while establishing a connections to the wider community through the expansion of a community garden.	Swan Hill	$5,346
Clunes Neighbourhood House Inc	Weight off your Shoulders: 6 Week Weight Loss and Wellbeing Program Improve the health and well-being of community members through initiating a health focused support program.	Clunes	$10,000
Robinvale Network House Inc	Covid Community Connection Capabilities Increase communication of community education programs and activities through development of a website and communication system.	Robinvale	$8,862
Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network Inc	Ararat Schools Resilient Art Project Increase the resilience and well-being of young people in the community through the delivery of a mindfulness program.	Ararat	$10,000
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Empowering Plantagenet Seniors Inc	Empowering Plantagenet Seniors Hub Fit Out Support community engagement and participation through establishment of a Senior’s Hub.	Mount Baker	$10,000
Narembeen Community Resource Centre (CRC) Shire of Narembeen	Ladies Long Lunch Increase social connectedness, business skills and mental health wellbeing through the Narembeen Ladies Long Lunch event.	Narembeen	$6,750
Esperance Farmers Fund South East Premium Wheat Grower Association	Set up Foundation – Esperance Farmers Fund Build capacity of Esperance to deliver locally driven community projects that support the wellbeing and growth of the community through establishment of a local community foundation.	Esperance	$10,000
Katampul Aboriginal Corporation	Development Katampul Health and Wellbeing Plan: Working Group Build community capacity through creation of an interagency working group and development of household health and wellbeing plans.	Leonora	$9,100
Tjupan Ngalia Tribal Land Council Aboriginal Corporation	Walkatjurra Kindilink Mural Project Build student and community engagement with education and incorporate cultural learning via a transformative mural design process at Lenora District High School.	Leonora	$10,000
Littlewell Mingenew Aboriginal Reserve Group Shire of Mingenew	Littlewell Aboriginal Reserve Seating Enhance the amenity of the Littlewell Reserve through provision of seating.	Mingenew	$10,000
Be Living Smart Inc Collie Family Centre Incorporated	The 10-topic Living Smart Community Course Support community to achieve environmental sustainability goals through seven week Living Smart course.	Collie	$9,013
Lake Grace Community Men’s Shed Inc.	Operation Bandsaw Increase community engagement, social wellbeing and connectedness for men in the Lake Grace region through the replacement of a bandsaw at Men’s Shed.	Lake Grace	$2,750
Northampton Parents and Friends Association	Playground for St Mary’s Primary School Northampton Increase gross and fine motor skill development and children’s physical health and mental wellbeing with purchase of playground equipment for St Mary’s School, Northampton.	Northampton	$9,000
Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation	Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (kala) in Ngadju Country Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance, by clearing tracks that enable access for cultural mosaic burns.	Norseman Indigenous Location	$25,000

34 recovery projects funded across Australia

Thirty-four projects set to seed and strengthen the recovery of communities affected by the 2019-20 bushfires are sharing in $589,945 in grants, thanks to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program.

The 34 grants are supported through a special stream of bushfire recovery funding via the SRC program. In total, more than 100 projects in remote, rural and regional communities across Australia were awarded $1,112,492 in grants through this round of the program. A full list of all SRC grants can be found here.

The bushfire recovery projects will support impacted communities across Australia from Stanthorpe in Queensland, to Eden in New South Wales, Bairnsdale in Victoria, Cudlee Creek in South Australia, and Ngadju country in Western Australia.

The grants of up to $25,000 will be used for a broad range of inspiring recovery projects, led by local people, such as supporting Shoalhaven’s vulnerable community members by running support groups facilitated by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, or preparing the community of South Arm for future disaster events by purchasing amenities and safety equipment for the local hall.

Sarah Matthee, FRRR’s Acting CEO, said that communities have found diverse ways to build up their resilience and support one another.

“This round we have seen communities drawing on their strong community partnerships to find ways of helping to make their community a more resilient and connected place,” Ms Matthee said.

“Communities have also shown us how much they value the vital contributions made by volunteers. We have funded several projects that support and recognise these people, and help tackle the fatigue they feel, especially in light of this year’s challenges.

“For bushfire-affected communities, COVID-19 has not lessened their determination to keep on recovering, despite the pandemic resulting in gatherings and events, which would have helped people connect and rebuild, being postponed or cancelled. Local leaders have put forward great ideas that are sure to help lift community spirits.

“Regardless of where these communities are at, the SRC program is flexible enough to fund projects that will help communities to seed and strengthen, adapt and evolve, and innovate and renew,” Ms Matthee explained.

Some of the 34 projects awarded via the bushfire recovery stream include:

• Pambula Business Chamber Incorporated, NSW – Pambula Art Project – $25,000 – Increase visitation to the region and highlight local history and culture, through development and installation of a series of artworks across the Pambula township.
• Pomona & District Community House Inc, QLD – Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project – $18,891 – Increase access, support and resources for local youth in Pomona by delivering a facilitated, structured community-based youth program.
• Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc, SA – Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard – $24,640 – Increase access to local produce and the social and economic recovery of Kangaroo Island by employing a part-time project manager to help reopen the Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market and develop a pop-up activity space.
• Koala Island Foundation Inc, VIC – A Sustainable Future Together – $3,400 – Conserve native habitat and increase volunteer support, through the development of a tourist attraction.
• Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation, WA – Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (Kala) in Ngadju Country $25,000 – Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance by clearing tracks to make access easier for cultural mosaic burns.

The SRC program is collaboratively supported by a number of generous donors, which are listed on the Strengthening Rural Communities program page.

The next round of SRC grants will be announced March 2021. The current round is accepting applications until 23 February 2021.

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

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

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
BUSHFIRE RECOVERY PROJECTS
NEW SOUTH WALES
Utungun Community Hall Section 355 Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council	Utungun Hall – Sitting Pretty and Moving Safely Support Volunteer capacity through the purchase of chairs and equipment for Utungun Community Hall.	Utungun	$4,020
Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network Hawkesbury River County Council	Regenerating our Bushland after Fire, Hawkesbury Increase local capacity to manage environmental recovery, through delivery of a series of workshops and events on topics such as weed management and erosion.	Bilpin	$16,000
Community Foundation for Albury Wodonga Region Ltd	Digital Storytelling Celebrate and encourage local giving post-bushfire via a digital storytelling project.	Albury	$10,000
Glenrac Incorporated	Emergency Preparedness for Future Challenges – Glen Innes NSW Increase support for recovering community, through delivery of wellbeing events and mental health first aid training.	Glen Innes	$17,150
Marine Rescue Kioloa Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW	Marine Rescue Base Facilities Upgrade Increase local capacity to maintain volunteer marine rescue service base facility, though replacement of carpet.	Kioloa – Bawley Point	$5,000
Eden Tourism Inc	Relocation of Eden Visitor Information Centre Increase amenity and function of new Eden Visitor Information Centre, through professional design and development of internal areas.	Eden	$20,000
Hartley Vale Mount Blaxland Reserve Land Manager	Ground Penetrating Radar Survey Heal the community through the establishment of all burial sites located at the Hartley Vale Cemetery.	Hartley	$16,016
Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club Inc.	Replacement of Community Infrastructure – The Boating and Fishing Jetty at Spencer Park Merimbula Lake Increase capacity to fundraise for replacement of local jetty, though support to complete development application and design planning.	Merimbula	$14,850
South Arm Hall Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council	Making South Arm Hall Resilient, Welcoming and Aiding Recovery Strengthen South Arm Hall’s resilience and preparedness for future disaster events through the purchase of safety and amenity items.	South Arm	$25,000
Nimbin Community Centre Incorporated	Walkways Together – from Jarjums to Elders Support community resilience through replacement of covered walkways at Nimbin Community Centre	Nimbin	$9,700
The Southern Highlands Foundation	FireAid Bushfire Appeal/Covid-19 Appeal Strengthen capacity of the Foundation to support their community post bushfire through the employment of an Executive Officer.	Balmoral	$25,000
Bombala Pre School Inc	Urban & Indigenous Agriculture Project Increase local resilience and intergenerational connections, through construction of codesigned community space and permaculture skills.	Bombala	$15,000
Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre Inc	Play in Nature Support early childhood development through the construction of a Natural Playground at Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre.	Evans Head	$9,575
Salt Care Limited	Salt Life Support vulnerable cohorts across Shoalhaven via support groups facilitated by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program.	Nowra/ Bomaderry	$15,000
The Elands Community Health & First Aid Centre Incorporated	Refurbishments for Community Centre Increase comfort and capacity of Elands local meeting space, through installation of air conditioning and solar system with battery.	Elands	$24,102
Ettrick Hall Committee Inc	Ettrick Hall Bathroom Upgrade Increase local capacity and disaster preparedness, through upgrading bathroom facilities at local hall to include a shower for emergency personal and displaced residents.	Ettrick	$10,000
Do It For Batlow	Weemala Hill Walking and Riding Trails – Batlow Lookout Renew access to local walking trails that support health and wellbeing through employment of contractors to clear burnt trees and reinvigorate the area.	Batlow	$25,000
Macdonald Valley Association	Macdonald Valley Community – Book of Fires Advance the recovery of the Macdonald Valley through the creation of a book which documents and celebrates community resilience.	St Albans	$22,870
Pambula Business Chamber Incorporated	Pambula Art Project Increase visitation to the region and highlight local history and culture, through development and installation of a series of artworks across the Pambula township.	Pambula	$25,000
QUEENSLAND
Artworks Granite Belt Inc.	ArtWorks Station Cafe Upgrade Increase capacity and enhance facilities at volunteer run Artworks Station Cafe, through upgrade of kitchen and outdoor eating area.	Stanthorpe	$9,066
Pomona & District Community House Inc	Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project Increase access to support and resources for local youth in Pomona, through delivery of a facilitated, structured community based youth program.	Pomona	$18,891
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Parndana Progress Association – Walking Trail Sub-Committee Parndana Progress Association	Parndana Fitness Trail – Outdoor Gym Station Increase access to equipment that supports health and wellbeing, through installation of outdoor fitness equipment at Kangaroo Island West Lions Park.	Parndana	$16,838
Kangaroo Island Yacht Club Inc	Community Hub Upgrade to Support Community Resilience Enhance community activities that support connectedness at the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club, through upgrade of aged kitchen facilities.	Kingscote	$25,000
Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc	Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard Increase support for reopening of community market and development of pop up activity space in Kingscote, through employment of a part time project manager.	Kingscote	$24,640
The Cudlee Creek Tennis & Basket Ball Club Inc	A Community Led Project: Our Community Hub and Tennis Courts Increase preparedness for disaster and enhanced community facilities for a community recovering from bushfire, through upgrade of fencing, drainage, water storage and landscaping at local hub.	Cudlee Creek	$25,000
VICTORIA
Omeo Shire Community Access Radio Inc	Replacing the Computer Increase capacity of community radio station to communicate local news and information, though purchase of computer, software and printer.	Omeo	$1,932
Sarsfield Recreation reserve Committee of Management Inc	Purchase of Lawn Mower Increase capacity for volunteers that manage local community reserve and meeting area, through purchase of ride on mower.	Sarsfield	$22,000
Everton Hall and Sports Complex Committee Wangaratta Rural City Council	Everton Community Hub Precinct Revitalisation – BBQ Shelter Stage 2 Enhance local meeting space and recovery activities, through construction of BBQ area and pathways at Everton reserve.	Everton	$11,276
Bruthen Mechanics Institute	Bruthen Hall Ready for Community Disaster Response Increase local resilience to support recovery efforts, and support social gatherings, through upgrade to Bruthen Mechanics Institute kitchen.	Bruthen	$24,299
Ensay Mechanics Institute Reserve Inc	Ensay Memorial Hall – Exterior Painting Increase support for rural community to maintain local meeting area as a disaster assembly point, through painting the Ensay Hall.	Ensay	$23,320
Mallacoota Inlet Bowling Club Inc	Mallacoota Bowls Club as a Hub for Community Support Resume community activities that support social connectedness, through repair and upgrade to the fire effected Mallacoota Inlet Bowling Club.	Mallacoota	$25,000
Koala Island Foundation Inc	A Sustainable Future Together Conserve native habitat and increase volunteer support, through the development of a tourist attraction.	Raymond Island	$3,400
East Gippsland Winter Festival Working Group East Gippsland Marketing Inc	East Gippsland Winter Festival Increase visitation and economy through employment of a Community Engagement Manager to support delivery of the East Gippsland Winter Festival.	Bairnsdale	$25,000
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation	Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (Kala) in Ngadju Country Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance, by clearing tracks that enable access for cultural mosaic burns.	Norseman Indigenous Location	$25,000

Funding for communities impacted by 2009 Black Saturday fires

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has awarded nearly $725,000 in grants to support 31 projects that will help communities impacted by the February 2009 Black Saturday bushfires continue to rebuild, reconnect and recover.

Supported by the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund (VBAF), these grants are funded through three grant programs – Grants for Resilience & Wellness (GR&W), GR&W Kinglake Ranges and the final round of Community Group Futures (CGF).

The VBAF funding comes from the generous contributions by the general public following the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009. More than a decade on from Black Saturday, FRRR has awarded more than $4.5 million in grants to local groups through these programs.

Grants for Resilience & Wellness

The GR&W program is tailored to support community-led projects that focus on strengthening and building the resilience of those places impacted by the 2009 Victorian bushfires.

Now in its nineth year, this round of GR&W sees $233,089 in grants awarded to 15 community groups. The funded projects will support and improve the wellbeing, resilience and mental health of community members, help people keep coming together, and help build community capacity and preparedness for future disasters.

Nina O’Brien, Disaster and Recovery Lead at FRRR, said that this round, there were many communities wanting funding for projects that help people connect and also retain their sense of place and community identity.

“Many communities reach a stage in their long-term recovery where reconnecting with place, the environment, and community becomes an important part of the healing process,” explained Ms O’Brien.

“Rediscovering and rebuilding these connections can happen in many different and meaningful ways, and this round of GR&W is a perfect example of that. For some communities, it involves improving community meeting places and venues for activities. Others are using arts and cultural projects to both increase community connectedness and grow community identity and awareness of local history. Other places are helping their community to connect through events and activities like concerts and walking trails.

“Recovery takes time and the process is different for every place, so it’s important that we listen to communities and their local leaders and let them decide what priorities need to be addressed, as things evolve,” Ms O’Brien said.

Some of the projects funded in this round of the GR&W program include:

• Buxton Primary School, Buxton – Buxton Bush Tucker Trail – $15,000 – Enhance curriculum through delivery of an innovative environmental and Indigenous education program that supports custodianship of local ecology.
• Yarra Valley ECOSS, Wesburn – Crops for Community to Market – $20,000 – Build a vibrant resilient local food economy through employment of a disability support worker to deliver and develop programs for disaster affected residents.

Grants for Resilience & Wellness Kinglake Ranges

The GR&W Kinglake Ranges program gives community groups and local not-for-profit organisations in the Kinglake Ranges the opportunity to work together and increase local capacity to get initiatives off the ground. This round, $461,993 has been awarded to 14 projects in the region.

A great example of the collaborative and innovative local thinking is Bees for the House, which will increase access to infrastructure that supports community education, through development of an apiary at the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House.

Among the other GR&W Kinglake Ranges awarded grants are:

• Flowerdale Community House, Flowerdale – Flowerdale Playgroup Program – $26,250 – Increase support for local parents, and enhance early childhood education, through facilitated playgroup program at Flowerdale Community House. 
• Kinglake Ranges Children’s Centre, Kinglake – Indigenous Sensory Bush Tucker Garden with Community Mural – $17,530 – Increase cultural and environmental learning through establishment of a yarning circle, firepit, and student inspired mural at a newly developed bush tucker garden.

The next rounds of GR&W and GR&W Kinglake Ranges open early March 2021 and close April 2021. Applications for the GR&W Kinglake Ranges program are now invited from all community groups in the wider Kinglake Ranges, not just those that participated in the initial consultation process in 2017.

Community Group Futures

The CGF program focuses on not-for-profit groups in communities impacted by Black Saturday. It was designed to provide them with the tools to create strong and lasting improvements within their organisation. This is the final round of the CGF program, with $898,237 granted across ten rounds.

Some $29,483 has been awarded to two projects to support the Yackandandah Fire Station and the Stanley Athenaeum and Public Room. The funds will increase their capacity through the purchase of equipment and by funding professional administrative support.

Ms O’Brien said that more than a decade on, these community organisations continue to experience operational and service delivery challenges due to the 2009 bushfires.

“For these community groups, they have had to face the challenge of managing their own recovery while also continuing to provide support and services the people in their communities. The CGF program has supported these organisations to look ahead to the future and implement longer term climate resilience initiatives that will help them achieve their aspirations,” said Ms O’Brien.

“For some community groups, these goals have included greater organisational capabilities, for others it’s been about long-term viability and sustainability, while others looked for ways to improve cost efficiencies for community infrastructure.

“The CGF grants have helped strengthen and sustain these community groups so that they can continue to do what they do best and support their community,” Ms O’Brien explained.

The final projects funded through the CGF program are:

• Totally Renewable Yackandandah, Yackandandah – Yackandandah Fire station – Resilient Power Supply – $9,983 – Increase the capacity of the organisation to reduce costs and remain available during emergencies through the purchase of a generator that will enhance the Fire Station’s new battery and solar system’s capacity.
• Stanley Athenaeum and Public Room Indigo Shire Council, Stanley – Prepare and Protect – $19,500 –Increase organisational capacity by employing professional support to catalogue and preserve Stanley Historical Space’s significant local collection. The project will include training that will leave a legacy in the organisation.

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

Organisation	Project	Location	Awarded
GRANTS FOR RESILIENCE AND WELLNESS
Alexandra Football & Netball Club Inc	Reserve Development Enhance facilities that support community connectedness and fitness, via upgrade of power supply for new community hub at Alexandra Football & Netball Club	Alexandra	$15,000
Art Resource Collective Inc	Pottery and Print Equipment Fund Increase access to the arts, and local connectedness through, upgrade of ceramics equipment and infrastructure for community arts group	Yinnar	$18,997
Arthurs Creek Fire Brigade Country Fire Authority – Head office	Spreading the Knowledge-Bushfire Education Program 2020 Build community resilience, through development of resources to deliver local CFA bushfire awareness program across five schools impacted by the 2009 bushfires.	Strathewen	$20,000
Bruarong Community Centre	Protecting and Sharing – Developing the Bruarong Collection Research Resource Preserve and protect the community’s heritage, through uploading and cataloguing images, objects, and documents.	Bruarong	$18,500
Buxton Primary School	Buxton Bush Tucker Trail Enhanced curriculum through, delivery of innovative environmental and Indigenous education program that supports custodianship of local ecology.	Buxton	$15,000
‘Honour the Taungurung’ Community Project Group Yea Community Service Group Inc	Honour the Taungurung Work towards reconciliation and acknowledgement of traditional owners through creation of a community meeting place featuring Taungurung designed artwork celebrating local Indigenous culture.	Yea	$28,734
Kilmore District Men’s Shed Inc	Solar Power Enhance sustainability of local Men’s Shed, through the installation of solar panels.	Kilmore	$8,960
Kilmore District Men’s Shed Inc	Plastering Enhance sustainability of local group, through the completion to construction of a local Men’s Shed	Kilmore	$6,054
Marysville Community Action Team Murrindindi Cycle Club	Feasibility Study for more cycling options in the Marysville Area to increase tourism Explore potential for ecotourism development and rejuvenation of community’s economy by extending visitor season with feasibility study into Cycle Trails	Marysville	$14,000
More Murals Rubicon Forest Protection Group Inc	Life of a Leaf: Notes from the Forest Enhance creative development and recovery, through creation of a 16-track compilation CD reflecting on the Black Saturday fires	Marysville Buxton Taggerty	$15,200
Rotary Club of Alexandra	Music in the Park Increase local connection and enhance culture, through supporting the delivery of community music event.	Alexandra	$5,450
St Matthew’s Church Saltbush Community Initiatives Inc	Hope…It Grows! Renewal Increase community access and renew facilities, through upgrade to community garden and space.	Long Gully	$15,300
Wandong Heathcote Junction Community Group Inc	Provide Seating along the Say G’Day trail at Wandong Enhance local walking trail and increase accessibility for residents with different abilities, through installation of seating areas.	Wandong	$6,695
Whittlesea Men’s Shed Inc	Dust Extraction and Air Filtration System Improve the health and well-being of community participants, by upgrading the air filtration system in the wood working workshop.	Whittlesea	$20,000
Yarra Valley Ecoss Inc	Crops for Community to Market Build vibrant resilient local food economy, through employment of a disability support worker to deliver and develop programs for disaster affected residents.	Wesburn	$20,000
GRANTS FOR RESILIENCE AND WELLNESS – KINGLAKE RANGES
Flowerdale Community House Inc	Flowerdale Playgroup Program Increase support for local parents, and enhance early childhood education, through facilitated playgroup program at Flowerdale Community House.	Flowerdale	$26,250
Kinglake Football Netball Club	Community coming together with healthy mind and body Increase local connectedness and reduce social isolation, through delivery of a family focused event at local Sports ground.	Kinglake	$3,530
Kinglake Ranges Children’s Centre Inc	Indigenous Sensory Bush tucker Garden with Community Mural Increase cultural and environmental learning through, establishment of a yarning circle, firepit, and student inspired mural, at a newly developed bush tucker garden.	Kinglake	$17,530
Buzz of the Bees Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc	Bees for the House Increase access to infrastructure that supports community education, through development of an apiary at the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House.	Kinglake	$7,508
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc	Dindi Collective: Supporting Organisational Capacity of Neighbourhood & Community Houses across Murrindindi Increase capacity and collaboration between seven Community Houses in Murrindindi Shire, though establishment of a supportive Network and delivery of professional development.	Kinglake	$64,173
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc	Kinglake Ranges Fund – Community Grant Development Officer Increase local capacity to develop community projects and apply for grant funds, through employment of a Community Grants Officer.	Kinglake	$41,941
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc	Makerspace Mates Increase opportunities to support connection, reduce isolation, and learn about new interests, through the delivery of free, no skill needed, creative workshops.	Kinglake	$19,763
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc	The Matanya Effect – Healing with Horses – Skills for a Calmer Life Increase access to locally based support for mental health, through the delivery of equine assisted learning to residents of the Kinglake Ranges.	Kinglake	$17,700
Kinglake Trust Reserve Inc	Ellimatta Centre Periodic Maintenance Project Increase access to spaces where the community connect, through preservation and maintenance of community hub at Kinglake Trust Reserve.	Kinglake	$25,850
Kinglake Historical Society Kinglake West Mechanics Institute Hall and Reserves Committee Inc	Strengthening Community Understanding of Kinglake’s Heritage Increase space and resources for Historical displays and research, through expansion to Kinglake Historical Society and purchase of additional equipment.	Kinglake	$162,334
Middle Kinglake Primary School	Providing Opportunities for Positive Social Interaction Increase use of outdoor areas at Middle Kinglake Primary School for learning and socialising, through purchase of outdoor cushions and beanbags.	Kinglake Central	$1,000
Rotary Club of Kinglake Ranges Inc	Rotary and Lions Storage Facility Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase local capacity, through the installation of a centrally located storage shed for community equipment.	Kinglake	$39,910
Toolangi-Castella Local History Action Plan Working Group Toolangi District Community House Inc	Toolangi-Castella Local history Action Plan Increase local connectedness to culture and heritage, through development of an oral history and photographic display, and website for Toolangi-Castella.	Toolangi	$14,742
Toolangi Tennis Court Action Team Toolangi District Community House Inc	Toolangi Tennis Court and Surrounds Re-development Enhance local meeting space and increase safety, through upgrade of pathways, retaining walls, and landscaping at Toolangi Tennis Court reserve	Toolangi	$19,762
COMMUNITY GROUP FUTURES
Stanley Athenaeum and Public Room Indigo Shire Council	Prepare and Protect Increase awareness of local historical collections significance, and protect it from future disasters, through engaging a Collection Management Consultant.	Stanley	$19,500
Totally Renewable Yackandandah Inc	Yackandandah Fire station – Resilient Power Supply Increase local resilience and preparedness through installation of a generator at the Yackandandah Fire Station.	Yackandandah	$9,983

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has awarded $1,454,165 in grants for 41 community-led projects that will help tackle the challenges that drought-affected communities across Australia continue to face through its award-winning grants program, Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT). ^[1]

The grants will support a wide range of initiatives that are designed to meet the needs of people in each drought-affected place, from Lake Cargelligo in NSW, Atitjere in the NT, Hughenden in QLD, Truro in SA, Murrayville in VIC, to Brookton in WA. These projects will help to create community cohesion and resilience by creating supportive environments, reducing social isolation and increasing community engagement in remote, rural, and regional communities across drought-affected Australia.

Although parts of New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia having received substantial rainfall this year, these regions, as well as many other parts of the country, continue to be affected by the long-term impacts of persistent rainfall deficits^[2]. 

Nina O’Brien, Disaster Resilience & Recovery Lead for FRRR, said that while it’s no longer on the front pages, the impact of the ongoing drought continues to be top-of-mind for FRRR.

“Despite recent rain in some places, we know the effects of long-term rainfall deficits don’t just disappear. It takes 18 to 24 months of sustained average rainfalls for communities to finally be able to move beyond the immediate impacts of drought. Most communities have had nowhere near this amount of rain – and many have had none at all, which is why communities still need support. This has been made evident by the record value of funding requests we received for this round of TTTT,” Ms O’Brien said.

“The pandemic has added extra financial strain to communities already dealing with drought, adding to the pressure felt by many local groups, including very fatigued volunteers. Community cohesion plays such an important role in drought recovery and COVID-19 restrictions have only exacerbated the social isolation and disengagement that many of these communities have been working hard to tackle.

“In spite of the difficulties, we are inspired by the many local organisations that persistently work to develop the places where they live. These groups are so resilient and continue to find ways to seed and strengthen, adapt and evolve, and innovate and renew their community. They are finding ways to bring their community together and build that social cohesion, whether it be through community events and festivals, making things more accessible for people living with disability, or by repairing and upgrading facilities to create a safe place for locals to gather.

“Thanks to the support of our donor partners, we can take a little pressure off them and help their great ideas come to fruition,” Ms O’Brien said.

Some of the 41 projects awarded this round include:

• Aldersyde Agricultural Hall Inc, WA – Aldersyde Agricultural Hall – $110,000 – Increased accessibility and reduced volunteer fatigue through upgrades to the Aldersyde Agricultural Hall kitchen, toilet facilities, water storage, verandah and parking area.
• Upper Lachlan Shire Council, NSW – 2021 Gunning Arts Festival – $6,925 – Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability and sustainability of the 2021 Gunning Arts Festival to provide opportunities for economic growth and community connection whilst supporting the arts in regional Australia.
• The Rex Monto Limited, QLD – The Rex: Theatre, Gallery and Community Hub – $ 58,500 – Enhance community identity with the restoration and development of a theatre, gallery, and community Hub at The Rex.
• Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association (Port Augusta Branch), SA – ‘Bush Kids Honey’ – $19,186 – Support opportunities for social and educational participation and address disadvantage caused by the drought, for children and young people through the provision of bee hives for Students of the Air – Port Augusta region.
• Outback Highway Development Council – Harts Range/ Atitjere, NT – Outback Way Outdoor Gallery – Installation – $60,000 – Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity, capability and sustainability to support the community through the installation of billboards of local artwork along highway.
• Murrayville and District Liaison Committee, VIC – Pioneer Park Playground Shade Structure – $17,303 – Reduce social isolation by facilitating social connection through the installation of shade over the Pioneer Park Playground, Murrayville.

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 areas currently drought-affected, or that have been affected in the last 18 months, are encouraged to apply for funding support.

The cut-off dates for future rounds are:

• 25 February 2021. Outcomes will be advised late May 2021.
• 24 May 2021. (Note, full applications for the $150,000 grant tier must be received by 13 April 2021.) Outcomes will be advised late August 2021.

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

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

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Up to $150,000
Aldersyde Agricultural Hall Incorporated	Aldersyde Hall Facility Upgrade Increased accessibility and reduced volunteer fatigue through upgrades to the Aldersyde Agricultural Hall kitchen, toilet facilities, water storage, verandah, and parking area.	Aldersyde	$110,000
NEW SOUTH WALES
Up to $60,000
Blayney Town Association	52 Weeks of Creativity Reduce social isolation and enhance local tourism through the provision of Blayney’s 52 Weeks of creativity including workshops, community gatherings, school holiday activities, markets, and live music events at the recently restored Blayney Railway Station “Platform” facility.	Blayney	$47,820
Bourke & District Children’s Services	Co-location of Early Childhood and Integrated Health Services Enhance social and educational participation for children disadvantaged by drought through the development of a feasibility plan for the Bourke district.	Bourke	$57,000
Lakes Alive Progress Association Incorporated	Water Tower Mural Lake Cargelligo Enhance local economic recovery and renewal through the development of the Lake Cargelligo Water Tower Mural.	Lake Cargelligo	$59,960
Nymboida Canoeing Limited	Nymboida Volunteer Hub Reduce social isolation and increase organisational capacity and capability through the expansion of the Nymboida Volunteer Hub.	Nymboida	$60,000
Sunnyside Hall Management Committee Incorporated	Re-Roofing Sunnyside Hall Upgrade meeting space that supports connectedness for drought affected residents, through replacement of roof and guttering at Sunnyside Hall.	Tenterfield	$36,500
Up to $20,000
Friends of the Gwydir Fitness Centre Gwydir Shire Council	Gwydir Fitness Centre equipment program Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of Friends of the Gwydir Fitness Centre through the provision of exercise equipment at the Warialda and Bingara Community Gyms.	Bingara	$17,973
Moree Mainly Music Group Mainly Music (Australia) Limited	Moree Mainly Music Group Support opportunities for social and educational participation and address disadvantage caused by the drought, for children through the provision of music session structures and materials for Moree Mainly Music Group.	Moree	$867
Murrurundi Community Men’s Shed Incorporated	Murrurundi Men’s Shed Extension Reduce social isolation by facilitating strong social cohesion and connection through the expansion of the Murrurundi Community Men’s Shed facility.	Murrurundi	$17,320
Pilliga Community Centre Incorporated	New Windows Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of the Pilliga Community Centre through the installation of new windows.	Pilliga	$6,657
Gunning Arts Festival Section 355 Committee Upper Lachlan Shire Council	2021 Gunning Arts Festival Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability and sustainability of the 2021 Gunning Arts Festival to provide opportunities for economic growth, community connection whilst supporting the arts in regional Australia.	Gunning	$6,925
Warren Chamber Music Festival Incorporated	Warren Chamber Music Festival Reduce social isolation, enhance educational participation for young people, and stimulate local economy through the delivery of the Warren Chamber Music Festival.	Nevertire	$20,000
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Up to $60,000
Outback Highway Development Council Incorporated	Outback Way Outdoor Gallery – Installation Support economic recovery and renewal through the installation of 14 outdoor billboards of local artwork along the Plenty Highway in the NT.	Harts Range/ Atitjere	$60,000
QUEENSLAND
Up to $60,000
Back Plains Primary Parents and Citizens Association	Enclosing our Covered Outside Learning Area Enhance social and educational participation for children disadvantaged by drought through enhancements to the covered outdoor learning space at the Back Plains State School.	Back Plains	$25,410
Bidjara Media and Broadcasting Company Limited	Expansion of Broadcasting & News Services Reduce social isolation through the expansion of Bidjara Media and Broadcasting community radio into Thargomindah, Quilpie, St George, and Roma.	Thargomindah	$60,000
Bollon and District Community Group Incorporated	Click goes the Shears in Bollon Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of a local not-for-profit organisation to provide support to their community through the enhancement of the Bollon Heritage Centre enabling under cover space to restore, showcase and preserve local historical artefacts.	Bollon	$60,000
Bungunya State School Parents and Citizens Committee	Operation Outdoors Enhance social and educational participation for children disadvantaged by drought through the installation of an undercover learning space and an irrigation system at Bungunya State School.	Bungunya	$59,245
Charleville Community Men’s Shed Incorporated	Charleville Community Men’s Shed Incorporated Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of a local not-for-profit organisation to provide support to their community, through enhancements at the Charleville Community Men’s Shed.	Charleville	$60,000
Chinchilla Historical Society Incorporated	The Fire Towers Interpretive Centre Enhance local economic recovery and renewal through the development of the Chinchilla Historical Society’s Fire Towers Interpretive Centre adding to local tourism offerings.	Chinchilla	$45,748
Proston Men’s Shed Incorporated	Proston Men’s Shed Incorporated Increased capacity to deliver community activities and reduce social isolation, through fit out of newly constructed Men’s Shed in Proston.	Proston	$59,972
Hughenden State Emergency Service (SES) Group Queensland Fire and Emergency Services	Training and Storage rooms Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity, capability, and sustainability through enhancements at the Hughenden SES Shed.	Hughenden	$44,228
Jericho State Emergency Service (SES) Queensland Fire and Emergency Services	SES Jericho Facility Fit out Reduce volunteer fatigue and build organisational capacity, capability, and sustainability of the local not for profit organisation to support the community, particularly during time of drought through the completion of a fit out at the Jericho SES Shed.	Jericho	$29,120
Queensland Rural Regional and Remote Women’s Network Incorporated	Toward 2030 – The Future of RRR Women (Established Wisdom Underpinning Innovative Futures) Reduce volunteer fatigue and build organisation capacity, capability, and sustainability through the development of a strategic plan including organisational collaboration, development, and action planning to secure the future of QRRRWN.	Goondiwindi	$27,640
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Barcaldine	The Next Chapter Enhance participation in education, through purchase of new technology and books for St Joseph’s Primary School, Barcaldine.	Barcaldine	$31,000
The Rex Monto Limited	The Rex: Theatre, Gallery and Community Hub Enhance community identity with the restoration and development of a theatre, gallery, and community Hub at The Rex.	Monto	$58,500
Windorah Development Board	Pioneers Park Strengthen economic recovery and renewal through the development of Pioneer Park in Windorah to enhance the tourist experience and showcase local history.	Windorah	$55,000
Up to $20,000
Alpha District Tourism & Development Association Incorporated	Additional Resources for our Tivoli Theatre Museum Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the provision of additional resources including technological equipment, a ladder, display cabinetry and signage for the Alpha ‘Tivoli Theatre’ Museum.	Alpha	$18,651
Eumamurrin Recreation Association Incorporated	Eumamurrin Water Infrastructure Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of local not-for-profit organisations to provide support to their communities, through the provision of water infrastructure at the Eumamurrin Recreation Reserve and hall.	Eumamurrin	$17,329
St Therese’s Catholic Primary School Parents & Friends Association	Light Tower and Electrical Points for our School Oval Build economic strength and sustainability, contributing to a stronger social fabric and increased resilience and connection to community through purchasing lighting and electrical infrastructure for annual community event.	Monto	$12,896
Wandoan Arts Council Incorporated	Wandoan Arts Council Creative Arts Escape Reduce social isolation by facilitating social cohesion and connection opportunities through the delivery of Wondoan Arts Council Creative Arts Escape in 2021.	Wandoan	$20,000
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Up to $60,000
Cleve District Hospital Auxiliary	Cleve Community Aged Care Bus Reduce social isolation and volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the provision of a wheelchair friendly bus for Cleve District Hospital services.	Cleve	$40,000
Copley Progress Association Incorporated	Copley Green Learning Centre Reduce social isolation through the development of the Copley Green Learning Centre, a Community Kitchen Garden project.	Copley	$40,000
Koolunga Primary School	Outdoor Learning Space Enhance social and educational participation for children disadvantaged by drought through the construction of an outdoor, undercover learning space for the children of Koolunga Primary School.	Koolunga	$30,000
Truro and District Community Association Incorporated	Town Entry Statements Enhance economic recovery and renewal through the installation of town entrance statement signage for the Truro township on the Sturt Highway.	Truro	$49,500
Up to $20,000
Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association (Port Augusta Branch)	Bush Kids Honey Support opportunities for social and educational participation and address disadvantage caused by the drought, for children and young people through the provision of beehives for Students of the Air – Port Augusta region.	Port Augusta Region	$19,186
Rotary Club of Peterborough Incorporated	Community Shower & Bathroom Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability and sustainability of the Salvation Army to provide support to their community, particularly where they are playing an increased role during the drought through the installation of showering facilities, in Peterborough.	Peterborough	$12,000
The Beltana Progress Association Incorporated	Creating a Permanent Exhibition of Flinders Ranges Art in the Beltana Hall as a Tourist Attraction Enhance economic recovery and renewal through the creation of a permanent art exhibition at the historic Beltana Hall.	Beltana	$12,995
VICTORIA
Up to $20,000
Heyfield RSL	External Cladding Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of a local not-for-profit organisations through enhancements at the Heyfield RSL.	Heyfield	$10,000
Lake Boga Waterski Club Incorporated	Lake Boga Waterski Club Kitchen Facility Upgrade Reduce social isolation, stimulate the local economy and increase the capacity, capability and sustainability of Lake Boga Water ski Club as they play an increased role during the drought by enhancements to clubhouse facilities.	Lake Boga	$20,000
Meerlieu Public Hall	Planning for the Future – Meerlieu Public Hall Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of Meerlieu Public Hall Committee of Management through the development of designs and documentation for future usage planning and facility enhancements.	Meerlieu	$17,420
Murrayville and District Liaison Committee Incorporated	Pioneer Park Playground Shade Structure Reduce social isolation by facilitating social connection through the installation of shade over the Pioneer Park Playground, Murrayville.	Murrayville	$17,303

^[1] 2020 Australian Philanthropy Awards – Best Grant Program

^[2] Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology. Drought Rainfall deficiencies and water availability. 7 October 2020. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2I1PSqA.