Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)

FRRR awards grants to more than 80 community groups and NFPs

More than 80 community groups across remote, rural and regional Australia are sharing $827,253 in grants thanks to FRRR’s flagship grants program, Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC).

SRC grant recipient, Australian Dental Foundation

The funding will be used by grassroots not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) for a wide range of initiatives that celebrate, strengthen and support their rural communities to be more vibrant, resilient, sustainable places to live.

Nearly $560,000 has been awarded through SRC’s Small & Vital (S&V) stream and will support 67 projects that create inclusive and accessible community spaces, provide mentoring and training and learning opportunities, improve employment prospects, or offer people the chance to connect and engage with others and their wider community.

The Prepare & Recover (P&R) stream of the program has awarded nearly $270,000 to 17 initiatives that build community resilience, preparedness and capacity to mitigate the impact of future extreme weather events, as well as support medium to long-term recovery in regions impacted by previous disasters, such as the 2022 floods and the Black Summer bushfires.

Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, said the SRC team is continually inspired by the strength and resilience of the NFPs dedicated to helping remote, rural and regional communities thrive.

“What makes rural communities amazing are the people that live there. These places are filled with locals working hard to keep community spirit alive and willing to step up to see their region navigate the highs and lows that come with living in the country. We see our role as walking beside them and empowering local groups to lead the projects they know will have a real impact.

“Small grants really do make a big difference and FRRR’s SRC program is so popular because it offers flexible small grants year-round to remote, rural and regional communities in all states and territories.

“Take for example the Forest Heritage Centre in Dwellingup, WA. With a Small & Vital grant of less than $1,500, the Centre will modernise the local gallery and gift shop’s point of sale system. This isn’t much funding but by updating their system, the Centre can look after the volunteers that help to keep the doors open, as well as encourage people to visit and spend money in the region.

“We’re also funding activities that bring people and resources back into country towns, helping these communities stay vibrant and sustainable. Places like Goulburn, NSW, where a $4,000 Small & Vital grant will help to upgrade infrastructure and host community workshops on environmental sustainability at the Goulburn Farmers Market.

“After supporting communities impacted by disasters for the past 25 years, we also know just how important flexible recovery and preparedness funding is, because communities’ needs change over time. By using a medium to long-term recovery lens, we’re able to support projects that strengthen the social fabric of a community through preparedness, capacity and resilience-building activities.

“Although it’s been five years since the 2019/2020 bushfires, the Eurobodalla community in NSW is still healing. Our Prepare & Recover grants allow us to continue supporting places like Eurobodalla, when other funders have moved on. This round, we’ve granted $10,000 to help the Shire Council run a 10-week cultural and personal development program to help connect socially isolated First Nations young people within the region.

“Our grants are often just one part of the bigger picture in terms of getting projects off the ground. But we know that this funding is often a crucial catalyst, encouraging further investment in local solutions. For example, the 84 projects we’ve supported in this round of SRC, are worth over $2.67 million.

“Demand for funding continues to grow, as the cost of living and operational expenses rise, government priorities shift, and the impacts of climate change and disasters evolve.

“To meet this demand, FRRR needs the support of the philanthropic and corporate sectors. A collaborative effort is needed to empower rural communities to lead a vibrant and sustainable future,” Ms Karena said.

The SRC program is collaboratively supported by donors, ranging from private individuals to larger foundations, who are acknowledged on the FRRR website.

If you would like to help, you can donate at www.frrr.org.au/donate.

FRRR always accepts applications to this program, which awards funds around four times a year. Local not-for-profit organisations and community groups are encouraged to review the program guidelines and apply. More information about the SRC program is available at www.frrr.org.au/src.

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

OrganisationProjectLocationGrant
SRC Round 23 - March 2025#colspan##colspan##colspan#
NEW SOUTH WALES#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
3rd Space Mob Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander CorporationBaryulgil Cultural Garden Project
Re-invigorate connection to culture through young people growing and learning about bush tucker and bush medicine.
Baryulgil$6,539
Cobargo Quaama Business Recovery Group IncorporatedBusiness Catch-Up Evenings
Build business alliances that increase social connection in Cobargo by establishing a regular business catch-up event.
Cobargo$3,870
Condobolin and District Landcare Management CommitteeRemote Rural First Aid Awareness in Condobolin
Increase community safety in a remote area through first response First Aid and CPR training for locals.
Condobolin$9,450
Corowa and District S.H.E. Shed IncCultivating Connections and Forging Friendships
Build membership of a SHE Shed by increasing the range of tools and creating usable outdoor space.
Corowa$6,748
Country Womens Association of NSWUpgrading Our Hall
Boost community access and use of the hall by installing lighting, painting and undertaking repairs.
Woodstock$6,250
Dalaigur Pre-school and Children's Services Aboriginal CorporationGrowing Spaces
Provide sensory developmental resources to boost social and emotional wellbeing of vulnerable children.
Kempsey$7,590
Grow the Future LimitedGrowing Youth, Growing Sustainability
Improve employment outcomes for young people through a vocational training and mentoring program.
Bega$9,984
International Volunteers for Peace IncGoulburn Farmers Market - Core Infrastructure and Targeted Workshops
Encourage local sustainable food production through upgrading market infrastructure and community workshops on environmental sustainability.
Goulburn$4,000
Let's Dance Carinda Tribute Committee IncorporatedKeep Dancing in Carinda, the Yearly David Bowie Music Event
Engage community and visitors in an event to commemorate the local filming of an iconic music video.
Carinda$10,000
Mainly Music (Australia) LimitedMoree East Public School Mainly Music Program
Build school readiness for vulnerable children through weekly interactive music sessions.
Moree$7,585
Mungindi Machinery Display Reserve Land ManagerA Helping Hand for Mungindi's History Park
Increase tourism in a very remote community through improving promotional materials and storage in the park.
Mungindi$9,186
Nambucca Riverwatch IncorporatedCitizen Science Volunteering Skills Project
Build volunteer skills and participation in environmental monitoring of the Nambucca River.
Bowraville$9,393
Outback Arts IncorporatedHello, Coonamble!
Foster community and cultural connection through developing 20 local’s personal stories into community performances.
Coonamble$6,150
Relationships Australia Canberra and Region IncorporatedGardening & Healthy Living - Youth Mental Health Initiative
Deliver food education and gardening workshops for young people and a “bush tucker” garden developed with local Indigenous services.
Narooma$8,000
Trangie Local Aboriginal Land Council Bellies and New Life Project
An art project to connect pregnant women to community, combined with maternal health check-ups.
Trangie$10,000
Warren Health Action Committee IncorporatedCalara House Riverside Grill & Chill BBQ
Establish an outdoor area, garden and BBQ at an aged care facility to encourage social interaction.
Warren$9,298
Prepare & Recover - General Disaster Preparedness & Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Connecting Communities Australia LtdYacaaba Head Restoration Stabilisation Project + Fire Breaks in Pindimar
In consultation with local First Nations Rangers and volunteers, develop native plantings, fire breaks and trails to improve the stability and resilience of the Yacaaba Spit landscape and mitigate future bushfire impact.
Hawks Nest$23,400
The Elands Community Health & First Aid Centre IncorporatedDeveloping Essential Services for Elands & Surrounds Community Safer Place
Ensure the Elands Community Health Centre’s continuing designation as a Community Safer Place by increasing water and power security to support vulnerable locals during disaster events.
Elands$20,580
Prepare & Recover - 2022 Flood Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
North Coast Radio IncorporatedIncrease Transmission Power Enhancing Capacity, Capability and Long-term Viability
Increase capacity, reach and long-term viability of a vital emergency communication service by completing the transmission upgrade with the purchase and installation of an antenna system.
Lismore$10,500
NSW Women in DairyNSW Women in Dairy Bale Up Conference
Connect, support and empower flood-impacted women with workshops, training and events on health, goal setting, communication and dairy technical knowledge.
Kingscliff$10,000
Rainbow Region Community Farms IncorporatedFuture Proofing Water Infrastructure at the Lismore Community Garden
Replace water tanks lost in the 2022 floods to ensure water security for the Lismore Community Garden that provides fresh food for those in need and a space for social connection.
Lismore$25,000
Prepare & Recover - 2019/2020 Bushfire Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Burragate Rural Fire ServiceFlooring for the Burragate Fire Shed
Increase community use and comfort of the Fire Shed by upgrading floor coverings.
Burragate$9,000
Eurobodalla Shire CouncilOur Generation - Fit to Flourish
Connect socially isolated First Nations young people with a ten-week cultural and personal development program.
Moruya$10,000
How Art Bemboka Community Hub IncBemboka Winter Solstice Women's Dinner
Reduce isolation for women impacted by the 2019/20 bushfires through an annual social dinner.
Bemboka$2,541
Marlee Rural Fire BrigadeMarlee Brigade Improvements
Increase volunteer capacity and experience by purchasing a battery starter pack and a car fridge.
Marlee$2,249
Native Animal Education Sanctuary LimitedPotoroo Palace Resilience and Preparedness Program
Build and support ongoing wildfire conservation operations and disaster preparedness for bushfire impacted Bega Valley with a community education and volunteer program providing opportunities for NDIS participants, students and job seekers.
Bega Valley$25,000
NORTHERN TERRITORY#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Hermannsburg Potters Aboriginal CorporationHermannsburg Potters Urgent Infrastructure Upgrade
Support the social and economic wellbeing of a very remote community by upgrading the local art centre’s septic system, allowing a facility that is a cornerstone of the local economy and community life to reopen.
Hermannsburg$35,000
Yandamah Indigenous CorporationNgurra Kurlu: Warlpiri Digital Culture Project
Strengthen and preserve Warlpiri culture by recording Elders knowledge and stories in digital content that is accessible, engaging and connects with the next generation.
Lajamanu$10,000
Prepare & Recover - Ex Tropical Cyclone Ellie & Associated Flooding#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association (Aboriginal Corporation)Strong Signals: First Nations Emergency Network
Strengthen disaster preparedness and connectivity in four very remote First Nations communities impacted by ex-Tropical Cylone Ellie by supplying mobile journalist kits and training in emergency communications for local reporters.
Tennant Creek$16,367
QUEENSLAND#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Alpha District Tourism & Development Assoc. IncNew Seating for the Main Street of Alpha and Giant Game
Support older residents to engage in town life and promote inter-generational engagement with new seating and novelty games for the main street of a very remote community.
Alpha$8,676
Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail IncorporatedCounting People Creates Opportunities and Awareness
Install a series of people counters across a volunteer-developed and run rail trail, providing an evidence base for future investment in the rail trail and in local communities.
Mundubbera$4,162
Cherbourg Historical Precinct Group IncorporatedGreening The Ration Shed Museum - A Place to Gather
Purchase a ride-on mower and brush cutter to support the grounds maintenance of a museum used by the community and tourists.
Cherbourg $10,000
Cooloola Coast Medical Transport IncOffice Equipment & Storm Preparation
Support volunteers to provide an essential medical transport service for their community by replacing outdated IT equipment and repairing a damaged storage room roof.
Tin Can Bay$8,600
Eromanga District Rodeo Association IncorporatedEromanga Rodeo Kitchen Facility Upgrades
Enhance capacity of multiple community groups to host events by upgrading kitchen electrical systems and appliances at a key facility in a very remote community.
Eromanga$10,000
Eungella Community Development Association IncCoffee Corner
Enhance local markets, provide barista training for volunteers, and encourage social connection by establishing a commercial-standard coffee station at a local community hall.
Eungella$10,000
Goondiwindi & District Historical Society IncCustoms House Celebrates 50 Years: Hands On Heritage Fair
Enhance inter-generational knowledge-transfer and social connection by supporting older volunteers to share their skills with a series of lost trades workshops and the launch of a military display.
Goondiwindi$10,000
Herberton Pocket Films (HCIA)Meet Me - Moving from Rural Life to Aged Care
Promote intergenerational connection and teach digital skills to young volunteers through producing a series of mini documentaries on rural community members transitioning into aged care.
Herberton$4,700
Innisfail Community Band IncorporatedEmpowerment and Access to Musicality
Enable a community band to support their local music scene by developing a website where local musicians can share music and promote local events.
Innisfail$4,830
Mornington Shire CouncilCommunity Development: Developing Frisbee Golf on Remote Mornington Island
Promote youth engagement, inter-generational connection and environmental sustainability in an isolated community by installing a frisbee golf course, with no-cost frisbees made from recycled materials.
Gununa$10,000
Muttaburra Stock Show SocietyMusic for Muttaburra: live music drawcard for 2025 Stock Show!
Support organisational sustainability and social connection in a very remote community through opening night entertainment as a drawcard to increase numbers at a long-running community event.
Muttaburra$10,000
Noorama Community Group IncNoorama Recreation Grounds Lawn and Garden Establishment Project
Increase community use and amenity of a remote public recreation reserve by establishing lawns and gardens.
Noorama$10,000
Palliative Care Queensland Inc led by Charters Towers Compassionate CommunitiesWhen Grief Comes Sit With Us - Empowering Grief Support
Build skills and support for local palliative care volunteers through training and establishing a peer network across remote Queensland communities.
Charters Towers$6,292
QCWA Branch MitchellKeep Shady for Better Health
Strengthen organisational capacity to provide all weather support for local events such as Christmas markets and community luncheons, by purchasing marquees.
Mitchell$3,452
Warwick & District Archers Association IncToilet / Shower Facilities - Safe Access and Water Supply Upgrade
Upgrade toilet and shower block and water supply at a community facility to build drought resilience and facilitate more diverse community use.
Warwick$5,336
Whitsunday Art Fusion (Art Whitsunday Inc)Strengthening Community Cohesion and Wellbeing Through Creative Arts
Engage isolated community members through the creative arts by co-designing, promoting and facilitating a series of workshops across outlying communities in the region.
Proserpine$7,668
Yamison Hall Recreation Grounds Association IncWheels on Community Recovery
Enhance a volunteer committee’s ability to undertake bushfire mitigation activities by purchasing a trailer to transport their ride-on-mower to secure storage.
Yamison$5,830
Prepare & Recover - General Disaster Preparedness & Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Quilpie Cultural Society IncRecovery from the Drought Through Creativity
Enhance resilience in a very remote drought-impacted community by providing a series of creative workshops to boost wellbeing and improve social connections.
Quilpie$19,894
SOUTH AUSTRALIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Australian Dental Foundation IncorporatedHealthy Smiles for Loxton
Provide access to essential healthcare for vulnerable community members by equipping a mobile dental clinic with treatment materials to deliver a free service for an aged care and schools program in a disadvantaged area.
Loxton$10,000
Encounter Centre IncCommunity Garden Upgrade
Provide a disability inclusive environment for health and social wellbeing activities by installing mobility-friendly pathways and garden beds for a community gardening program.
Victor Harbor$7,803
In Home Hospice Care IncorporatedPractical Skills - Carers Education
Strengthen capacity and capability of non-paid carers of vulnerable community members by providing free workshops and opportunities to connect for people who provide palliative care.
Port MacDonnell$9,881
Karoonda and District Bowling Club IncCooking Up Connections - Kitchen Upgrade
Upgrade kitchen appliances to enhance club capacity to ensure volunteer safety and maintain strong community networks at a focal meeting place.
Karoonda$10,000
Mid North Arts (SA) - Burra CMC (Burra Community Management Committee Incorporated)Back to Burra - 180th Celebration
Boost visitation to a historic township, reduce social isolation and enhance community pride by hosting a parade and picnic commemorating 180 years of Burra.
Burra$10,000
Parrakie War Memorial Hall IncorporatedRepurpose for Social Connection
Revitalise the local hall with a safe, accessible outdoor space by adding a concrete base, shed and covered annex for community activities, workshops and social gatherings, reducing social isolation and improving mental health and wellbeing in an isolated place.
Parrakie$7,575
Rotary Club of Bordertown IncorporatedBordertown Patient Transfer Facility
Install a water tank and plumbing in a new patient transport depot to help to ensure patient comfort and effective emergency service coordination.
Bordertown$10,000
Tatiara Retirement Village Soc IncAn Open and Shut Case
Improve access and safety of residents and visitors by installing an automatic door to the recreation centre, increasing accessibility and independence.
Bordertown$10,000
Wilmington Agriculture and Horticulture Society Incorporated2025 Show: Bringing Our Community Together
Foster social cohesion and provide a fun family-friendly event for a community impacted by drought, by offering amusements and entertainment at an annual agricultural show.
Wilmington$4,900
Wudinna And District Bowling Club IncCool Facility: Reverse Cycle Air Con
Install an air conditioner to enhance sustainability, create a comfortable meeting space and boost community engagement in a remote community’s social hub.
Wudinna$10,000
Prepare & Recover - General Disaster Preparedness & Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
The Mount Remarkable Agricultural SocietyReliable, Sustainable Water
Enhance bushfire and drought preparedness and improve organisational infrastructure by installing a solar operated water system at the Melrose Showgrounds.
Melrose$25,000
TASMANIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Geeveston Community Centre IncUndercover Community BBQ Area
Foster social connection and support volunteer engagement by building an outdoor undercover BBQ area for youth programs, cooking projects and community activities.
Geeveston$9,955
Phoenix Community House IncThe Gateway to Help and Support
Enhance safety, usability and inclusivity and improve amenity through a landscape upgrade and new fence at the entrance to the community centre.
Currie$8,090
VICTORIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Banyena Community Hall IncorporatedGutter and Downpipe Renewal
Preserve an historic building and enhance community engagement by upgrading plumbing to improve water catchment and provide a comfortable meeting place.
Banyena$8,100
Bena Public Hall IncorporatedReplacement Split Air Con
Install an air conditioner to improve sustainability, create a comfortable meeting space and boost community engagement at the only community hub in Bena.
Bena$2,000
Borodomanin Mechanics InstituteAncona Prepare & Recover Project
Enhance the capacity of a community facility to support older vulnerable residents by purchasing a generator for power back-up during outages.
Ancona$3,300
Fryerstown Community Reserve Committee of ManagementTransition and Activation for a Vital Hub
Maintain a community facility and strengthen neighbourhood connections by upgrading furnishings and website to promote local events, activities and workshops.
Fryerstown$9,949
Gunaikurnai Land & Waters Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC2025 NAIDOC Community Day
Enhance access and community and cultural connections in a culturally safe space on Brayakaulung Country by providing transport and a marquee for a NAIDOC celebration featuring storytelling and educational activities.
Stratford$10,000
Jeparit Heritage Walk CommitteeJeparit Heritage Walk and Talk About
Foster visitation and connection to history and expand educational enrichment for local students by purchasing and installing 40 interpretive signs along a heritage trail.
Jeparit$10,000
Loch Sport Community House IncImprove the Meeting Room and Kitchen
Create a safe, accessible and comfortable meeting place for all, including older residents, by upgrading the electrical system, adding kitchen storage and repainting walls at Loch Sport Public Hall.
Loch Sport$10,000
Pennyroyal Hall IncorporatedNot Too Hot, Not Too Cold, Justtttt Right
Install a climate control system to revitalise and increase usage of Pennyroyal Hall, providing a comfortable year-round gathering place.
Pennyroyal$4,959
Tarrawingee Community Hall Committee of ManagementHeating the Tarrawingee Hall
Increase the use of a facility that provides a social outlet for older people, by installing two split system units to make the space more comfortable and welcoming.
Tarrawingee$10,000
Wycheproof Community Resource Centre IncBuloke Expo & Central Mallee Roadshow
Empower and support regional young people by hosting two primary prevention Youth Health Expo’s for Year 9 and 10 students, covering general health, mental health, drug & alcohol, respectful relationships and consent, increasing knowledge, networks, and practical learnings for better health and wellbeing outcomes.
Birchip$10,000
Prepare & Recover - General Disaster Preparedness & Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Lockington and District Bush Nursing Centre IncFood Security for Our Community
Enhance health outcomes for vulnerable community members in disaster-affected Lockington by providing emergency food relief and healthy eating initiatives via a local food share program.
Lockington$25,000
Peppin Hub IncorporatedEmpowering Community Resilience: Equipping Our Future
Strengthen bushfire preparedness and volunteer capacity by equipping an emergency response hub with a laptop and printer for improved operations.
Bonnie Doon$4,205
Prepare & Recover - 2022 Flood Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Neighbourhood Collective Australia LtdThe Story Exchange: Preparedness for Multicultural Communities
Enhance the resilience, preparedness and recovery of multicultural communities in four central Victorian towns affected by the 2022 floods through the delivery of community-led storytelling workshops to foster two-way learning, connecting multicultural communities and emergency services.
Boort$24,800
Prepare & Recover - 2019/2020 Bushfire Recovery#colspan##colspan##colspan#
McCormack Park Grounds Management Committee IncMaintaining a Safe Environment and Refuge
Enhance bushfire preparedness and community safety by purchasing mowing equipment to maintain Merrijig's parkland, and guard a public reserve.
Merrijig$16,000
WESTERN AUSTRALIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Small & Vital#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Boab Festival At DerbyBoab Festival - Mardi Gras Opening Night
Support stage costs at the opening event of the Boab Festival, promoting social connection in a very remote and sparsely populated community.
Derby$5,000
East Kimberley Chamber of Commerce and Industry IncorporatedKununurra Community Working Hub
Support the development of a co-work space by providing IT and kitchen equipment, enhancing opportunities for social connection, collaboration and entrepreneurship in a very remote community.
Kununurra$2,500
Forest Heritage Centre IncModern Point of Sale System at Forest Discovery Centre
Support volunteer experience, improve organisational capacity and enhance local economic development by purchasing a modern point of sale system for gift shop and gallery sales.
Dwellingup$1,495
Kununurra Picture Gardens IncorporatedKununurra Picture Gardens Rejuvenation Project (KPGRP)
Promote social engagement in a very remote community by upgrading the projector at a community-owned and volunteer-run outdoor theatre as part of a larger rejuvenation project.
Kununurra$10,000
Manjimup Community Resource Centre IncDigital Literacy Resilience and Empowerment in Manjimup
Foster life-long learning, community resilience and cohesion by providing IT equipment for a digital literacy program targeting vulnerable community members.
Manjimup$9,989
Noongar Kaartdijin Aboriginal CorporationBoorn and Boodja: Etching Culture into a Yarning Circle
Advance opportunities to preserve and learn about First Nations culture by installing etched wooden seating for a yarning circle on a cultural trail.
Toodyay$4,260
Shire of WilunaHealthy Cooking in Wiluna
Provide a community healthy cooking program in a very remote community to foster lifelong wellbeing.
Wiluna$10,000
Southern Edge Arts IncorporatedSouthern Edge Arts Kwoorabup Circus
Support a community-wide strategy to boost youth wellbeing through the provision of equipment, expert safety advice and marketing for the establishment of weekly circus workshops.
Denmark$9,807
The Cannery Arts Centre IncGather & Grow: Social Gardening and Morning Tea at Forage
Encourage social connection and improve food security in a remote community by providing equipment, materials and facilitation for an inclusive weekly gardening and morning tea program.
Esperance$9,995
Yarra Yarra Catchment Management Group IncorporatedImproving Capacity to Deliver Community NRM Projects Enhance organisational capacity and improve volunteer capability to deliver NRM projects by providing IT equipment, training and materials.Perenjori$9,570

More flexible support needed to ensure sustainable, vibrant and empowered communities

FRRR is calling for individuals and organisations to help meet the unmet needs of remote, rural and regional communities, which continue to grow despite FRRR distributing a record $22.5 million in grants in 2023 financial year (FY23).

Alpha District Tourism & Development Association is a previous recipient of an FRRR small grant

In FY23, FRRR’s flagship program, Strengthening Rural Communities, awarded more than $3.7 million via 466 small grants, valued at $10,000 or less, that directly benefited remote, rural and regional communities across Australia. The total value of those projects was more than $15.1 million, showing a remarkable leverage of a relatively small investment.

But this is only half the story. In FY23, for nearly every 10 projects that received a small grant, one missed out. In the last round of this program alone, there were 85 funding-ready projects that FRRR couldn’t support because it didn’t have enough money.

Natalie Egleton, FRRR’s CEO, says that FRRR’s small grants empower people in remote, rural and regional Australia to create communities that are vibrant and sustainable places to live and work, for the long-term.

“Rural people want to see their communities thrive. They want to be able to support those doing it tough or with special needs, like older residents; enhance community facilities to respond to the changing climate; provide access to music and cultural experiences for younger people; host events that bring a remote community together to celebrate what makes it unique or to recover after difficult times, just to name a few.

“But every small grants round we offer is oversubscribed, meaning with few alternative funding options, many community projects are left unfunded and critical needs are left unmet.

“It’s not just the dollars that are missed. Groups also say that FRRR’s funding has helped them to build capacity and confidence in their ability to test, learn and develop future other project ideas.

“Small grants help to bridge these gaps and make a lasting difference to remote, rural and regional Australia. By donating to FRRR, you help remote, rural and regional groups – many of whom can’t access funding elsewhere – to create vibrant, sustainable and empowered communities for the long-term,” Ms Egleton explains.

For example, previous small grant recipient, Alpha District Tourism & Development Association, in Queensland, explains, “FRRR has allowed us to achieve something that would have taken us years of fundraising for. Being a very small town fundraising is difficult due to the number of other small clubs and the small population. FRRR Grants are vital to help small communities.”

In Donald, Victoria, the St Arnaud Neighbourhood House used a small grant to improve social participation and the health and wellbeing of aged care residents, by getting local volunteers to record the resident’s life stories. Beyond the monetary value of the grant, the impact of this project was felt deeply throughout the community.

As the organisation shared with FRRR, “We believe this project created a community with a stronger social fabric, where young people were able to gain insights into the lives of those who came before them, and where the residents felt appreciated and respected, and that their life story was being honoured. We were most proud of the effect this project had upon the residents, many of whom were feeling isolated and forgotten. By demonstrating to them that they and their history still had meaning and importance, they felt a connection to the community and to the young people involved in the project.”

Meanwhile, in Morawa, Western Australia, the local playgroup was able to grow educational enrichment opportunities for 0-5 year olds by creating a shady nature play space. with the support of an FRRR small grant. In their project acquittal, Playgroup WA wrote that, “By completing this project it shows that despite being a small, low socio-economic town we can make life better for ourselves. We deserve nice facilities and can create them with the help of organisations like FRRR.”

It’s not just community groups that attest to the critical role of FRRR small grants. Natalie Devlin, Chief Experience Officer at Charter Hall, explains, “Having worked with FRRR since 2020, we have seen first-hand the difference they can make through their local understanding, and connection to grassroots organisations that often can’t access support otherwise.”

To enable FRRR to award more small grants, donate at: here. Contributions of $2 or more are tax deductible.

Find out more about the impact of small grants at: frrr.org.au/small-grants.

In an agricultural community, it is not uncommon to have a male-dominated population. However in and around Glen Innes, NSW this isn’t the case. More than half of the Glen Innes population is female. But local leadership and committee membership didn’t reflect that balance.

The Glen Innes Natural Resources Advisory Committee (GLENRAC) is dedicated to creating opportunities for land owners and the community to take an active role in managing and maintaining the natural resources of the region.

GLENRAC identified the need to improve governance skills and gender diversity within community groups and organisations to satisfy government and funding bodies.

To address this issue, GLENRAC used a $5,000 grant from FRRR’s Small Grants for Rural Communities grant program, funded in collaboration with Australia Post, to deliver a project aimed at building skills and capacity to engage with community groups in a meaningful way.

The project included three workshops over two days, targeting all members of the community and focusing on increasing knowledge of governance and leadership. During the workshops, community members engaged with experienced and professional facilitators. Participants were given the opportunity to build on their existing networks and increase their connections within the community.

GLENRAC hopes that following these workshops, women in the community will feel more confident and empowered to get involved with local committees with the skills and knowledge acquired from the events.

HEADING: Good governance supports great outcomes in Glen Innes. IMAGE: Group of people sitting in on a presentation.
Baryulgil Community Hall

Nestled in the heart of the bush, halfway between Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour in NSW, lies the rural community of Baryulgil.

In the heart of Baryulgil is the Community Hall, located in the town square. The hall has stood for almost 90 years, and been used for social gatherings and fundraisers throughout the years.

With a population of fewer than 100 people, the community hall provides a much-needed place for local residents to gather. In recent years, the hall had fallen into disrepair, with dry rot in the walls, a leaking ceiling and broken windows.

The team at Baryulgil Charity Sports Club applied to FRRR’s Small Grants program, and received a $5,000 grant funded by The Yulgilbar Foundation, to complete maintenance works to ensure the local community could enjoy the hall for many years to come. 

This grant enabled the Club to replace the damaged walls, remove dangerous stairways and doors, replace rusted gutters, and purchase heritage-colour paint to restore windows and doors that had been damaged by water.

Along with the popular social events and fundraisers, the hall can now be used by emergency services during bushfires, acting as a local hub for the NSW Rural Fire Service. The bulk of the project was completed in late 2019, with additional work delayed by COVID-19 to be completed in the near future.

Clarence Landcare Inc

Clarence Landcare is located in regional NSW. Their mission is to promote sustainable land, agriculture, water, vegetation and biodiversity management practices and principles to their local community.

The largely volunteer-run organisation has been taking care of the land in the region for more than two decades. They regularly running community projects and initiatives focused on sustainable land care. The team also hosts workshops at their head office to educate and engage the wider community.

Located in the main street of Grafton, the Clarence Landcare office is in the 100-year-old Dougherty House. After the building was recently repainted giving the exterior of the building new life, it became clear that the interior was in desperate need of an upgrade.

Not only had the furniture been in use for more than 20 years, the team was also lacking basic essentials to help their meetings and workshops run smoothly. There was mismatching furniture and outdated technology made it very difficult for members to join meetings remotely.

The team applied to the FRRR Small Grants for Rural Communities program, and received a $5,000 grant to help them upgrade their workspace. The funding, made possible thanks to The Yulgilbar Foundation, provided improvements such as new blinds, couches, coffee tables, rugs and faux plants, giving new life to the old office.

In addition to the furniture, the funding was also used to purchase some much-needed technology, including a new iPad, Smart TV with a TV stand on wheels, web cam and microphone. This technology has enabled the team to dial into meetings remotely, making it easier for Clarence Landcare staff to stay connected digitally.

“I feel we are heading in a great direction now thanks to this FRRR grant, we don’t need to look like a poverty stricken not-for-profit organisation anymore. We now have the vision and committee support to keep improving our public face of Clarence Landcare. This will really help us gain confidence and attract clientele for future projects. The function of every new piece of equipment has far outweighed the predicted benefits,” said Landcare Officer Debbie Repschlager.

Saddleworth in South Australia is a small rural town with a big heart. With less than 500 people, it’s a tight-knit community where the residents easily walk from one end of town to the next in 20 minutes. 

The town has faced some hardships in recent years, making it difficult for locals to access basic recreational sites that larger towns could enjoy easily. With a high number of low-income families living in the area, most without cars, it has become increasingly important to have an accessible and safe playground in Saddleworth for kids to enjoy.   

For over 77 years, the Saddleworth Lawn Tennis Club has been providing the town with facilities for sporting events and recreational activities. The Club is located on the Saddleworth War Memorial Community Centre, and honours those who lost their lives in World War II. The Club features the only publically accessible playground in the area, providing play and entertainment for nearby families. 

The small playground that was in desperate need of an upgrade, as the equipment was becoming non-compliant, and was at risk of being removed entirely. The playground was also sitting in direct sunlight, making it difficult for kids to enjoy playing on hot days when UV levels were extraordinarily high. 

After losing their local supermarket to a fire in 2016, the community was feeling deflated, having lost a major asset to their town. However, when the Club decided to fundraise the amount needed to improve the playground, over 20 volunteers put their hands up to help out, and six local businesses offered their support. 

The team applied for the FRRR Small Grants for Rural Communities grant, which provided $5,000 for stage one of the playground upgrade. These funds paid for a new shade cover the playground, that will ensure kids can continue to enjoy the area even on sunny days, and not just the early morning or late afternoons as they had become accustom to. 

Stage two of the upgrade encompassed replacing some of the equipment on the playground, including a garden border, softfall and bench for families to enjoy, while they sit under the shade sail. The work was carried out by local volunteers. The community can now enjoy their local playground and the newly refurbished facilities.

With summer well under way, the Club has more Junior Teams attending, with more children looking for some entertainment while their siblings play tennis. The new playground is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, and has created a real impact amongst the community.

The challenge of attracting volunteers to support charitable organisations serving the community is universal, but exacerbated further in remote communities where the potential pool from which to recruit helpers is that much smaller to start with.

This was the challenge NT Friendship & Support Inc (NTSF) faced when they received a grant from FRRR to help them with their volunteer recruitment drive. The group’s mission is to provide professional care and promote an accessible, inclusive and supportive community.

The organisation has a waiting list of vulnerable Katherine region seniors seeking to be paired with a volunteer to assist them, from attending medical appointments and support services, to simply joining them for a cup of tea and a chat. Community members access the service via a referral from a regional assessment team and to be eligible must be 65 year or older, or 45 years or older for Indigenous community members.

Katherine currently has three aged care facilities, all of which are at capacity, with the only other alternative residential aged care facility located 330 km away in Darwin. NTFS has 25 people on the waiting list, five of whom are a high priority for the service. These identified seniors are at risk of isolation and loss of independence. Research suggests that, whenever possible, it is important that people have the opportunity to remain in their communities, connected to country, and independent as long as possible.

NTFS had hoped to recruit and train ten new volunteers, and used the $4,090 grant from FRRR’s Small Grants for Rural Communities program, funded by The Yulgilbar Foundation, to run an advertising campaign to increase their volunteer numbers. Katherine has a transient population which includes the RAAF base at Tindal, and the town relies on families from Tindal to be able to fill vacancies of volunteer positions.

Sadly, the recruitment drive wasn’t nearly as successful as they were hoping, due largely in part to the low turnover of families at Tindal. Of the initial 13 people who registered their interest in volunteering with NTFS, for various reasons, this translated into only two new volunteers.

Part of the grant was supposed to cover the cost of National Police clearance, Ochre Card Cultural training and First Aid certification for up to ten people (the magic number they were hoping to recruit). NTFS found themselves with surplus funds, so after seeking approval for a variation to their grant agreement, they applied the funding to another of their initiatives, the Seniors Community Bus, to ensure Seniors are supported through the COVID-19 crisis.

With no public transport available in Katherine, this service enables the organisation to support Seniors in getting to and from local services and various medical appointments, unhindered by the cost of high fees on taxis when they are available. The bus adheres to social distancing requirements (5 passengers as a maximum in a 14 seater bus), with rigorous hygiene and disinfection control measures in place.

So while the NTFS team and volunteers are stretched to their limits, they continue to provide valuable and necessary services to marginalised and vulnerable members of their community.

Omeo District Health, centred in the remote Victorian Alps, provides primary health care to the communities of Ensay, Swifts Creek, Omeo, Benambra Dinner Plain and surrounding localities. The region’s cloistered location means that both food security and access to local fresh produce can be an issue for some residents and so, as part of the Omeo Region Building Health Food Futures project, Omeo District Health set up the ‘Healthy Harvest’ produce and information exchange.

‘Healthy Harvest’, with the help of a $4,150 Small Grants for Rural Communities grant, would help build the sustainability of the Harvest Exchange meets throughout the year by providing the equipment and resources to display and promote the harvest goods and project materials. It also builds on the strength of the local community who have a lot of knowledge and skills to share when it comes to the growth and establishment of their own gardens and produce.

Portable tables, sandwich board signs, shelter marquees, seed sticks, and ‘Harvest Host’ aprons were some of the items purchased with the grant with 16 events scheduled throughout the year. Harvest Host volunteers and participants from Ensay, Swifts Creek, Omeo and the Benambra communities all benefited from the new resource.

“It is a fabulous way for the members of the community to meet,” said one of the Harvest Exchange Hosts. “It is very social, and as we all like producing things, there are lots of ideas exchanged and information given.”

The Healthy Harvest produce and information exchange resulted in high engagement with a current base of 138 registered participants. A survey administered in June 2018 indicated high satisfaction with the program and overall positive impacts on social connection and mental health, access to fresh produce and variety, information and produce exchange as well as increased motivation for people to grow their own product to eat and share. It also has had a significant impact on people feeling connected to their community.