27 locally-led projects funded

Rural communities across Australia are sharing in $1,060,404 in grants for 27 projects that will help them access the resources they need to tackle the ongoing effects of the Big Dry thanks to FRRR’s award-winning grants program[1], Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT).

While water storage levels in the northern Murray-Darling Basin and northern Australia have improved, parts of south east Queensland and southern Western Australia still face serious or severe rainfall deficiencies[2]. Although other areas and states have had some rain, recovery from drought requires at least 18 months of average to above average rainfall. So much of the country continues to need support to tackle the impacts of the prolonged dry.

The 27 funded projects will help rural communities across Australia, from Charleville in Queensland, Moulamein in New South Wales, Keith in South Australia, to Manjimup in Western Australia, strengthen social connections, boost economic recovery, and build community and organisational capacity and disaster resilience.

Nina O’Brien, FRRR’s Disaster Resilience and Recovery Lead, said that on top of the effects of the drought, the ongoing impacts of the pandemic has seen volunteer fatigue emerge as a key priority in many places.

“For those areas still in drought, volunteers and local groups have had to find ways to sustain and engage the community,” Ms O’Brien explained.

“Maintaining this optimism and drive is no small feat, and we are pleased to be able to support the places and the people that are working to make their community thrive amidst the complexities of drought and the pandemic.

This includes groups like the Bundaleer Forest Community Areas Association in Jamestown, South Australia, who will be able to support their volunteers and boost economic sustainability by upgrading infrastructure and purchasing new equipment. The funding will provide equipment and storage areas needed to maintain the Maple and Pine event centre. The Bundaleer Forest project will provide strong, genuine and ongoing economic benefit, regardless of seasonal conditions, making Jamestown a more attractive place to live, work and play.

In New South Wales, Moulamein Community Development Incorporated has developed an inspiring project that will encourage tourism activity to the area through the restoration of the Werai Horse Stables and Moolpa Blacksmith shop in the Moulamein Heritage Village. The primarily volunteer-run organisation has been awarded a $149,930 grant for their initiative, which will boost the region’s economic recovery and build community wellbeing.

Some of the 27 projects awarded this round include:

• Monaro Farming Systems CMC Incorporated, NSW – Building Resilient Relationships for Farmers – $29,610 – Help locals stay informed and connected through the delivery of workshops in the Monaro region.
• Charleville & District Cultural Association Inc, QLD – Charleville Creative Lane 2021 – $20,000 – Encourage more local involvement in the community by delivering up to 30 creative arts workshops in Charleville.
• Back to the Bush Festival Incorporated, QLD – Miles Back to the Bush Festival – It is the people that make it – $23,452 – Support opportunities for social and educational participation and address disadvantage caused by the drought, for children and young people of Miles, QLD through the delivery of the Back to the Bush Festival in September 2021.
• Cadell Community and Tourist Association, SA – Cadell Op-Shop Amenities Block – $11,000 – Support volunteers at the community owned and operated Cadell Op-Shop by installing running water and an onsite toilet.
• Shire of Manjimup, WA – Youth Engage and Empower Project – $60,000 – Support opportunities for social and educational participation through employment of a Project Facilitator to build local youth resilience and establish a youth council for the Shire of Manjimup.

Applications for the TTTT program are always open and groups in drought-affected areas are encouraged to apply for funding to help their community come together to tackle the drought. Grants are available for a broad range of grassroots, community-led initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities.

The cut-off dates for the next round of TTTT are:

• 24 August 2021. (Note: Stage One for the $150,000 grant tier must be received by 12 August). Outcomes will be advised late November 2021.

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. To join these donors, and support grants like this through FRRR, you can make a tax-deductible donation here.

More information on the Tackling Tough Times Together grant program is available here.

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

Jump to: NSW | QLD | SA | WA

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[1] 2020 Australian Philanthropy Awards – Best Grant Program

[2] Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology. Drought Rainfall deficiencies and water availability. 10 May 2020. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2I1PSqA.

29 projects funded to support drought-impacted communities

FRRR has awarded $1,264,396 in grants to 29 projects that will support communities across the country that are experiencing prolonged rainfall shortages. The funding is through its award-winning grants program[1], Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT).

The grants will help drought-impacted regions access the resources needed to bring people together, so they can feel connected and supported. These places, like many parts of remote, rural and regional Australia, continue to face the real and persistent challenges caused by Australia’s Big Dry. Despite rainfall across some areas, these extended dry periods and long-term rainfall deficits may continue for some time.[2]

Nina O’Brien, FRRR’s Disaster Resilience and Recovery Lead, said that the TTTT program encourages communities experiencing the Big Dry to take the lead in their recovery and renewal.

Many places facing long-term rainfall shortages have seen their local economy hit. These resilient communities are finding ways to strengthen their economy and encourage local spending and tourism. For Orroroo Carrieton, the District Council is boosting the local economy by developing the Black Rock Wool Press Rotunda as a local attraction. The Rotunda will showcase local historic artifacts including the restored Black Rock Wool Press.

“Other places like Washpool in South Australia and Cecil Plains in Queensland, are renewing their regions by upgrading local facilities to give people a place where they can come together in safety and comfort.

“We are delighted to be able to award these grants to help turn local ideas into reality. We know it’s challenging to get these projects off the ground in the midst of a pandemic, especially when many are dealing with reduced local fundraising capacity, and fatigued volunteers.

“We want people experiencing drought to know that there is still funding available. TTTT is a flexible grant program specifically designed to support communities as they move to recovery. Our team will work with you to help make your project happen, even if it might look a bit different to what you’d initially planned, in light of COVID-19,” Ms O’Brien explained.

Some of the 29 projects awarded this round include:

• District Council of Orroroo Carrieton, SA – Black Rock Wool Press Rotunda – $143,252 – Boost local economy and tourism opportunities by supporting the development of the Black Rock Wool Press Rotunda to showcase local historical artefacts including the restored Black Rock Wool Press.
  
• ABC Foundation Limited, WA – AWRAE: Aboriginal Women’s Research Assistant & Evaluation Training Project – $60,000 – Create opportunities for Indigenous women of Carnarvon and surrounds to develop leadership skills by training them to research and evaluate projects delivered in Indigenous communities.
  
• Gooloogong Historical Society Incorporated, NSW – Stage 1 – Restoration and revitalisation of Gooloogong’s meeting place – $59,752 – Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase community connections and sense of place by restoring the Gooloogong Clubhouse to house the Gooloogong Historical Society.
  
• Drillham Primary Parents and Citizens Association, QLD – Along the Garden Path – $13,000 – Reduce social isolation and encourage people to come together and connect through a two-day creative arts workshop program.
  
• Wheatbelt Business Network Incorporated, WA – Accredited Mental Health First Aid Training in the Wheatbelt – $26,300 – Develop community leaders’ skills and training to provide support for their communities by engaging them in Mental Health First Aid training.

Applications for the TTTT program are always open and groups in drought-affected areas are encouraged to apply for funding to help their community come together to tackle the drought. Grants are available for a broad range of grassroots, community-led initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities.

The cut-off dates for future rounds are:

• 24 May 2021. Outcomes will be advised late August 2021. (Note: Stage One for the $150,000 grant tier must be received by 13 April). Outcomes will be advised late November 2021.
• 24 August 2021. (Note: Stage One for the $150,000 grant tier must be received by 12 August). Outcomes will be advised late November 2021.

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.

To support grants like this through FRRR, make a tax deductible donation here.

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

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

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Up to $150,000
District Council of Orroroo Carrieton	Black Rock Wool Press Rotunda Enhance economic recovery and renewal through the development of the Black Rock Wool Press Rotunda showcasing local historical artifacts including the restored Black Rock Wool Press.	Orroroo	$143,252
Wilmington Progress Society Incorporated	Wilmington Community Multipurpose Gym Facility Project Reduce social isolation by facilitating strong social cohesion and connections and increase organisational capacity through the construction of a multipurpose community facility.	Wilmington	$108,367
Up to $60,000
Auburn Southern Gateway Committee Auburn Community Development Committee	Auburn Southern Gateway Enhance economic recovery and renewal through the installation of town entrance statement signage for the Auburn township in the South Australia Clare Valley.	Auburn	$43,826
Washpool Hall Management Committee Spalding District Incorporated	Washpool Hall Kitchen and Rear Lobby Revitalisation Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity of the Washpool Hall through the upgrade of the kitchen and rear lobby area.	Washpool	$60,000
NEW SOUTH WALES
Up to $60,000
Gilgandra Museum and Historical Society Incorporated	Experience our Amazing History @ Gilgandra Rural Museum Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability and sustainability of the Gilgandra Museum and Historical Society Incorporated through upgrading the kitchen, exhibition/meeting room flooring, lighting, audio equipment and promotional brochure.	Gilgandra	$50,909
Gooloogong Historical Society Incorporated	Stage 1 – Restoration and Revitalisation of Gooloogong’s Meeting Place Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase opportunity for community cohesion through the restoration of the Gooloogong Clubhouse to house the Gooloogong Historical Society.	Gooloogong	$59,752
Lower Lachlan Community Services Incorporated	Roof Over Community Support the capacity and sustainability of Lower Lachlan Community Services through the replacement of the roof.	Lake Cargelligo	$50,000
Mandagery Public Hall Land Manager	Improved Amenities for the Mandagery Hall Build the capacity of the Mandagery Public Hall Land Manager with upgrades to the amenities with an Eco-Flo toilet system.	Mandagery	$55,000
Up to $20,000
Coleambally Community Club Limited	Installation of Tesla Battery for Solar Power Storage Support climate resilience and sustainability of the Coleambally Community Club through the purchase of a Tesla power wall battery for excess power storage.	Coleambally	$19,841
Tullera Community Hall Incorporated No Y17180 27	RAMP US UP Reduce social isolation and support strong social cohesion and connection with an upgrade of a disabled access ramp at the Tullera Community Hall.	Tullera	$18,000
QUEENSLAND
Up to $60,000
Bloomin Beautiful Blackbutt Festival Incorporated	Blackbutt Arts Strategy, Big Avocado and Arts Project Officer: Towards a Strategic Future Support stronger economies and sustainability of local tourism events with the development of the Blackbutt Art Strategy and a Project Plan to build a Big Avocado in Blackbutt.	Blackbutt	$58,744
Broxburn Music Club	Staged for Success Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity of Broxburn volunteers with the repair and upgrade of the stage and the construction of a lockable shed at The Broxburn Community Grounds.	Broxburn	$58,401
Cecil Plains History Group	Relocation and Restumping of Norwin CWA Hall Build the capacity of the Cecil Plains History Group through the relocation and restumping of Norwin CWA Hall to provide an all-weather space for historical displays and a community meeting space.	Cecil Plains	$55,000
Goondiwindi Pastoral and Agricultural Society	Fencing for the Future Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity of the local organisation to support their community through drought with the installation of internal zone fencing at the Goondiwindi Showgrounds.	Goondiwindi	$60,000
Mondure Public Hall Committee Incorporated	The Mondure Public Hall Amenities Refurbishment including a Disabled Toilet Support the capacity and sustainability of the Mondure Public Hall Committee with upgrades and refurbishment to amenities.	Mondure	$58,680
Mulga Mates Centre Incorporated	Playground upgrade Reduce volunteer fatigue, and support sustainability and capacity of Mulga Mates Centre with the installation of a playground to improved early childhood development.	Quilpie	$53,958
Outback Festival Incorporated	‘Giants of the Outback’ Reduce social isolation and enhance economic recovery through the delivery of the 2021 Outback Festival in Winton, QLD.	Winton	$45,000
Roma Historical Precincts Incorporated	Preparation of a Business Case to be used as a Supporting Document for the Development of the Roma Butter Factory Support organisational capacity and sustainability with the development of a business case to support the redevelopment of the Roma Butter Factory as a visitor experience to boost economic activity and visitation in Roma.	Roma	$49,800
Tansey Show Society Incorporated	Purchase Shaded Grandstands and Water Troughs for Tansey Showgrounds Build the capacity of Tansey Show Society through the purchase of two transportable shaded grandstands.	Tansey	$23,848
Up to $20,000
Bullyard Hall, Sports and Recreation Club Incorporated	Assisting the disabled Reduce social isolation and build community participation opportunities through the installation of an access ramp at Bullyard Hall.	Bullyard	$9,460
Drillham Primary Parents and Citizens Association	Along the Garden Path Reduce social isolation through the provision of creative arts activities enabling the community of Miles to come together and connect during times of hardship.	Miles	$13,000
Guides Queensland – Warwick District Guides Queensland	Refresh and Replacement of the Floor Coverings in 1st Warwick Girl Guide Hut Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity, capability, and sustainability of the 1st Warwick Girl Guide Hut through refreshing and replacing floor coverings	Warwick	$9,878
Outback Gondwana Foundation Limited	Futureproofing with a Forklift Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity of Outback Gondwana Foundation by supplying a forklift.	Eromanga	$20,000
Stanthorpe Agricultural Society	Gotta get a Gator! Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity of Stanthorpe Agricultural Society through the purchase of a ‘Gator’ utility vehicle to support community events held at the facility.	Stanthorpe	$19,140
Warra Tennis Club Incorporated	Serving for Sustainability with Solar Panels Reduce volunteer fatigue and build the capacity and sustainability of the Warra Tennis Club through the purchase and installation of a solar panel system.	Warra	$8,710
Maranoa Regional Council	Ignite and Excite: Career Pathway Taster Support opportunities for learning and education participation at Roma, Mitchell, Injune and Surat with the Ignite & Excite: Career Pathway Taster project.	Roma	$5,530
VICTORIA
Up to $20,000
Yaapeet Community Club Incorporated	Turkey Bottom Lake – Picnic Shelter Reduce volunteer fatigue and enhance opportunities for social cohesion and connection through the construction of picnic shelter at Turkey Bottom Lake.	Yaapeet	$20,000
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Up to $60,000
ABC Foundation Limited	AWRAE: Aboriginal Women’s Research Assistant & Evaluation Training Project Enhance opportunity for leadership development and skills training for Indigenous women of Carnarvon and surrounds, through the delivery of the Aboriginal Women’s Research Assistant and Evaluation Training Project (AWRAE) focused on research and evaluation for projects delivered in Indigenous communities.	Carnarvon	$60,000
Wheatbelt Business Network Incorporated	Accredited Mental Health First Aid Training in the Wheatbelt Support leadership development and skills training in Wheatbelt Business Network through the delivery of Mental Health First Aid Training.	Quairading	$26,300

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[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.

Located 1,000 km from Brisbane in the southwest of Queensland, Eromanga has a big claim to fame. The rural town, hidden deep in the outback of Australia, may only be 119 residents – but the biggest by far is Cooper, a 30 metre long and 6.5 metre high Dinosaur.

Eromanga is Australia’s furthest town from the ocean, and was drought declared for 13 years out of the 18 years to 2018. The many challenges brought on by a long drought, paired with the limited access to the town, have made increasing tourism a top priority for the local community.

Until recently, tourism around the region was almost non-existent, until the first dinosaur genus was found in 2004. From then, the Outback Gondwana Foundation founded the Eromanga Natural History Museum (ENHM), and since 2008 has been collecting and processing the fossils found in the area for locals, scientists and tourists to view.

The museum features fossils that have been preserved for more than 95 million years, however being located in a remote area has meant little foot traffic. Visitors faced long travel times to and from the museum, making day trips nearly impossible.

To overcome this obstacle, the Museum opened their own on-site accommodation, bringing more business to the area by allowing visitors to stay longer. Cooper’s Country Lodge offers four-star rooms, and thanks to a recent grant from FRRR, now has new kitchen and laundry facilities for their guests to enjoy.

The team at ENHM received a $20,000 grant through FRRR’s Tackling Tough Times Together program, funded by Australia Post, which allowed them to purchase equipment and fit out their onsite kitchen, laundry and support services. There is also a commercial kitchen featuring a microwave, griddle, deep fryer and new cookware, together with dining furniture and outdoor table & chairs.

The investment is already paying off. Despite the lockdowns and travel restrictions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the popularity of the ENHM and Cooper’s Country Lodge has only increased, as Queenslanders have spent their holidays travelling in their own backyard. In 2020, the ENHM received the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award, meaning the Museum is in the top 10% of attractions worldwide.

The regional town of Emerald, situated in the Central Highlands Region of Queensland, is having a tough time. The area is experiencing a severe drought, which is having a significant impact on the town’s economy. However, there is a potential bright light for both locals and tourists in the new Emerald Arts, Culture and Technology Precinct (ACTP).

The precinct includes the regional library, art gallery, maker space, pottery, art pods and more. As part of the precinct, the Central Highlands Science Centre (CHSC) saw an opportunity to create a first-class science discovery and learning experience for kids in the local area, and tourists from out of town looking for a fun family activity. With the town experiencing a tough drought, keeping tourism going is important as it gives the town a much-needed boost to their economy.

A $18,700 grant from the Australian Government through our TTTT program meant that the organisers of the centre could work together with key community and tourism groups and conduct a feasibility study into the potential of establishing the centre as part of the Emerald ACTP. The feasibility study investigated the opportunities and measure of success or failure of the Centre to drive an economic benefit for CHSC and the wider region.

The project was found to be feasible, and the CHSC received further funding to help with their relocation costs. While the shift has been put on hold due to COVID-19, the bigger premises mean that the CHSC has been able to stay open and continue providing education opportunities and a tourist attraction for visitors from outside of town. It is excellent to see this project making such a big difference to the long-term sustainability of the centre.

Gai Sypher, who is the Coordinator of the CHSC, said of the project; “Drought is far reaching across Australia and the recent rain has only given hope. Drought is part of the Australian landscape. We need to invest in our rural communities to attract visitor who will spend money to boost our rural economy.”

“Thank you for this wonderful opportunity that has funded the feasibility study. We have actioned recommendations from the study and are scheduled for a relocation in June.”

Gai Sypher – CHSC Coordinator

When a popular city-based summer school music program made plans to bring the beat to the bush and put on a show alongside it, the whole community of Tenterfield NSW let the rhythm takeover.

Recently ravaged by drought and fires, the small town was experiencing some hard times. Charitable organisation Hartbeat of the Bush teamed up with the Cuskelly College of Music’s Winter Music School in a bid to provide Tenterfield and the surrounding communities with a brief respite from it all – the result was a week long ‘Beat of the Bush’ festival during the July 2019 holidays.

Dr James Cuskelly has run a Summer School music program in Brisbane for years, but it was his long-held dream to bring the music back to the bush, to his roots. Despite the evidence that incorporating music in a child’s education shows life changing benefits, such as improving literacy, numeracy, confidence, behaviour and wellbeing, 63 percent of primary schools in Australia offer no classroom music. In regional and remote schools, there is limited or no musical and arts-based education, and opportunities for children to actively participate as performers and artists, under the mentorship of professionals and in front of an audience, is rare and for some non-existent.

Hartbeat of the Bush supports arts, music and cultural development programs in regional and remote communities. This initiative was designed as a whole of community project, to enable participants to socialise with others from across and beyond their region. In total, around 160 participants attended the Winter School, travelling from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Ashford, Texas and Newcastle and lots of other little places in between.

The program kicked off with the Big Chilly Sing, a day-long singing and song-writing workshop that gave locals a chance to converge and get the toes tapping. This was followed by a range of courses and concerts for students of all ages delivered by more than 50 teachers, many of whom are internationally-acclaimed.

A range of concerts were also put on by the Winter School music educators themselves, which were attended by 220 people each night. Locals and visitors alike were treated to a folk concert, jazz performances, a chamber music concert, an opera night, a piano concert and of course, the final night culminated in one of the biggest concerts Tenterfield has ever seen. The finale was a rendition of the legendary Peter Allen song Tenterfield Saddler, performed by all of the Winter School attendees, and arranged by Pete Churchill, who led the Jazz studies program.

Musical experiences like this help children develop social skills and build confidence. Children from all over the region who had never met one another, played an instrument nor sung in a choir before this program amazed their family members with the talent and skills they had learnt in just five days. Many of these children are still in contact with each other and cannot wait for the next event.

What’s more, the economic benefits for the town were significant, with cafes, restaurants and retail outlets benefitting from a lot of foot traffic at a time when the drought impact was being deeply felt. A large number of local community groups were involved in some way, from making lunches and morning teas to providing venues for the concerts.

Hartbeat of the Bush President Ms Helen McCosker said it was a whole of community effort.

“The whole community was abuzz – even though we had had fires, drought and could no longer drink the town’s water, we had provided the businesses with a little sense of what was normal, something to look forward to and grow for our little country town.”

The $20,000 grant received by Hartbeat of the Bush was funded by the Australian Government through FRRR’s Tackling Tough Times Together program. This covered the costs of running free daily buses within a 100 km radius for commuters from Warwick, Bonshaw, Glen Innes and Tabulum, as well as accommodation at the local Tenterfield Motor Inn for tutors (both overseas and those from Brisbane) and volunteers.

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.

Because of the importance of this social event, the Freestone Memorial Hall wanted to ensure the space was safe, could host the growing number of visitors, and had the updated facilities needed to ensure everyone could come together for a good time.

Freestone Memorial Hall was awarded a $10,000 grant, funded by the Australian Government, and administered by FRRR as part of the Tackling Tough Times Together Grant Program, to upgrade their facilities, install a data projector and integrated PA system and undergo renovations to fix an unsafe floor.

“Since installations and repairs have been completed, we have run five Friday Friendlies with increasing numbers at each Friendly. We are now averaging 50 people per night with a broad cross section of the community coming together to share their experiences of the month. This has proved particularly important as the drought continues,” Simon Goddard, a volunteer committee member for the Hall, told FRRR.

“We are even getting people back to the Friday Friendlies as they hear of improved facilities and increasing numbers. It is becoming self-perpetuating and has a very promising future.”

The new projector has been a popular addition for many locals, who enjoy getting together to watch live sports and tournaments. 

The grant also allowed the community group to purchase a fridge, which not only keeps their drinks cold for events, but generates some income for the Hall. This modest but sustainable income makes it possible for the community to host bigger and better events together. So far, the Friday Friendlies continues to be a success for the Freestone community, with many looking forward to attending the gathering every week.

Nearly $1.3 million in grants awarded

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some of the 36 projects awarded this round include:

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

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

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

The cut-off dates for future rounds are:

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

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

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

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

Content warning: this article deals with sensitive themes including self harm that might be disturbing for some audiences.

For students facing adversity in communities across SA’s Eyre Peninsula, a long-running resilience program helps them to create a future where they not only cope, but thrive.

Youth Opportunities runs a 60-hour, 10-week wellbeing and resilience program that provides young people, especially those that are disengaged and disadvantaged, with the tools and knowledge to overcome obstacles associated with life’s challenges – from bullying and anxiety to family dysfunction and drug and alcohol abuse.

In SA’s eastern and western Eyre Peninsula, drought is impacting on local families, increasing financial strain and social isolation. Port Lincoln High School, Tumby Bay High School and Whyalla High School report more than 30% of families are receiving financial assistance with school fees and materials. Statistics show farming communities across the state experience mental health problems at twice the rate of the general population, and for youth in the area, opportunities are low and suicide rates are higher than average.

The powerful program has found a 52.1% reduction in the number of teenagers at high risk of developing a mental health disorder as a direct result of training with Youth Opportunities.

Grants Officer, Mrs Sacha Burkett talks of a ‘ripple effect’ from the program. “This comes from young people making significantly better life choices, strengthening their personal relationships and becoming strong leaders amongst their communities.

“Following the delivery of our first program in Cummins, one local council member told Youth Opportunities she had “clearly witnessed much more community spirit and a behaviour change in young people in town”.

Youth Opportunities is structured to heavily subsidise the cost of delivery so the burden isn’t placed on budget restrained schools and low-income families, but remains accessible to those who need it most. The program has been running at schools successfully since 2008, but local drought and financial stress means there has been a decreased capacity to fundraise locally for the program to continue.

Against this backdrop, FRRR awarded a $20,000 grant, through the Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT) program, thanks  to the support of the Australian Government. The grant part-funded local trainer’s salaries, training materials, administration, travel, graduation costs and sustained graduate engagement.

Across the three schools, 54 Year 10 students (aged 15 and 16) attended the program. Trainers combined practical experience and coaching, delivering content within a supportive group environment, extending the groups’ skills ‘in areas not typically part of school, but important for life’. Upon completion there was a Graduation Ceremony celebrating the journey, personal changes, achievements and outcomes of the students.

Feedback from the students illustrates the immediate benefits on their outlooks:

• “I am feeling a lot happier and I am pushing myself harder to achieve my goals.”
•  “I have developed the confidence I need within myself.”
• “Youth Opps has really changed the way I think about everything, by not looking back and moving forward in life.”
• “By opening up to challenges and new habits, I have found a new side of myself I never thought I would find.”
• “Youth Opps has helped me to see my worth.”

All graduates are now being supported to reach their educational and personal goals through an additional two years support from Youth Opportunities trainers, focusing on reinforcing program content and helping graduates continue to achieve and succeed post-program.

Mel Degner, Principal Cummins Area School, wrote that the program cuts through and proves relevant for students of all backgrounds, giving them significant long-term skills and strategies.

“Through the Youth Opportunities Personal Leadership Program, many of our students reconnect with their families by learning how to communicate more positively, others change their goal planning to include further education or a newly discovered career path, and the majority discover important things about themselves and begin to value their self-worth.“

Similarly, Nicky Prosser, Principal Tumby Bay Area School, says the program has contributed to a positive shift in school culture, helping students manage their responses to negative experiences.

“Youth Opportunities delivers valuable outcomes for or students – positively impacting classrooms, friendship groups, families and the wider community.”

FRRR is delighted to have been able to support a program making such a positive difference.

The Sunset Strip Village is located on Menindee Lakes in NSW and has experienced severe drought cycles for the past seven years. Without a water supply for the Community Centre Precinct lawns, Landcare Nursery and land restoration sites, the areas turned brown and undesirable.

The psychological and economic impact of the long-lasting drought has led to painful shortfalls for the community, including the tragic death of a much-loved local volunteer. In addition, at least 28 families in the agricultural industry have abandoned the area, with weekend residents quick to follow suit. The result was a drying and demoralised Sunset Strip, with a third of its houses up for sale.

The Sunset Strip Progress Association Inc (SSPAI) is a locally run not-for-profit, co-managing everything from the local pub to the post office. This resilient group of volunteers have tackled drought-related challenges in the community since 2012, and they were not about to give up their sunny strip. SSPAI knew what their village needed in order to not only survive, but grow and thrive as a small rural community – and they were willing to put in the work to make it happen.

The idea was simple: make the area green and prosperity will follow. The project has well-received by the community as it they all wanted to see the Community Centre Precinct flourish, a restoration of Landcare plantations, and an increase in lifestyle, liveability and house sales with new residents.

Thanks to a $19,070 Tackling Tough Times Together grant funded by the Australian Government, the Sunset Strip Progress Association purchased a submersible pump, a 1,000-watt solar panel, a water controller, a pressure solar pump and 3,300-gallon water tank to a create a permanent groundwater source for the 6,000 sqm flourishing community lawn around the Community Centre Precinct.

Since this much-needed investment, the benefits in the whole village have been obvious. The Sunset Strip Village has welcomed three new families and seen an overall renewed positive atmosphere in the community. The Landcare Nursery Team are growing seedlings that will ensure future growth and thriving greenery – making the Village a desirable destination to work and live again.