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.

The Dolphin Sands Ratepayers Association is a member of Landcare Tasmania, representing the residents and ratepayers of the fragile sand spit bordered by Moulting Lagoon to the north and Nine Mile Beach to the south. Their aim is to help residents be bushfire-ready by removing some of the highly flammable introduced species and replacing with low-flammability natives. 

In April this year, a bushfire destroyed 128 hectares of vegetation in the Dolphin Sands area, leaving the fragile dune system vulnerable to further damage. The community is in a drought declared area, and with the ongoing dry conditions, members of the Association wanted vegetation cleared and mulched well before the next fire season.

Given several of the recent fires in the area, including the April fire, were hazard reduction burns that ‘escaped’, residents were seeking viable alternative to burning green waste, thereby mitigating the risk of burns ‘escaping’.

They worked with the local council and emergency services groups to coordinate a series of working bees throughout Winter to reduce the fuel-load in the 25m ‘defendable zone’ around dwellings and beside driveways.

The Association received a $9,900 Tackling Tough Times Together grant, funded by Westpac Group, to pay for a commercial mulcher and its crew to work through the stacks of vegetation removed during the working bees, and, once mulched, transported it to areas recently affected by fire. 

In total 15 truck loads of mulch (about 150 tonnes) were removed from 56 properties, which are now better prepared for the coming bushfire season.

Leadership development is much more than learning how to run a meeting and pitch an idea. It involves building skills in developing positive interpersonal relationships, managing change and conflict, giving and receiving feedback, values-based actions and being open, honest and trusted. These skills are important for everyone, and they allow more individuals to support each other, particularly when times are tough.  

Thanks to a $14,500 grant from the Tackling Tough Times Together program, which was co-funded by Qantas Foundation and Friends of FRRR, Red Ridge Interior was able to ensure that everyone could access leadership development and training and build these important skills. This grant allowed Red Ridge Interior to hire a space, provide catering and pay for a leadership coach and facilitator to come to Longreach for three days to deliver the program. Twenty people participated in the program.

Participants spent three days covering a number of leadership theories and putting them into practice. Some of the topics they covered included Colour Spectrum model of leadership, values in action, understanding change, communication and deep listening, time management, goal setting and more.

Participants also had the opportunity to attend an ‘alumni’ day which brought together participants from the past three years of the program to meet, discuss what they had learnt and the real-world applications. This also gave them opportunities to connect with other leaders in their communities that were experiencing similar challenges and offered opportunities for mentorship.

Participants got a great deal out of the workshops. One said of the experience, “I have learnt about who I am as a leader, where my strengths are and where I need to work harder. I have learnt so much and have gained so much for myself, my family, my work and hopefully my community.” 

Another said: “I learnt about my strengths and weaknesses and knowledge of each individual having their own strengths and weaknesses. Leadership is utilising everyone to achieve.”

The Grease and Oil Change organisation knows how important it is to look after your mental and physical health. It is especially important in rural and remote areas, where resources are scarce and communities may be struggling with unique environmental challenges. Since 2016, they have run workshops aimed at fostering a healthier and more resilient community, and reducing the stigma associated with mental health by facilitating opportunities for individuals to discuss common issues and problems and to seek solutions from others and from health professionals.

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The areas of Bedgerabong and Trundle, in Central West NSW, have been tackling drought for many years now. Agriculture is a big industry in the community, and this has been adversely impacted by the ongoing drought conditions, which has led to hard times for everyone.

An $11,200 grant from the FRRR’s Tackling Tough Times Together program, funded by the Australian Government, meant that Grease and Oil Change workshops could be run in both towns. Experts were brought in to talk to locals about their mental and physical health, as well as run practical workshops teaching them a range of skills.

The workshops are now in their fifth year of operations. In each year since its inception, over 60 people have attended the event, with one workshop having over 200 attendees. By providing a casual and relaxed atmosphere, participants feel more at ease in listening and perhaps sharing experiences of poor mental health. Community partnerships with local allied health groups such as Beyond Blue, Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP), Active Farmers andSober in The Country mean that community members will be more comfortable with reaching out to a familiar face, rather than a stranger.

Cherie Stitt, who founded the organisation, said, “It was a wonderful community gathering in both Trundle and Corinella. Apart from the wisdom gained from the guest speakers, the audiences were able to socialise and speak more openly about mental health – particularly in light of drought conditions and the failure of crops.

“Take-home and practical measures were some of the most valuable insights from the day – all the way from sleep tips, diet and through to communicating with friends and family.”

Since the workshops began, people in these towns have set about creating their own activities to encourage people to come together. One woman organised a bike riding group with some of the people who attended the workshops. Active Farmers now run a personal training group with locals once a week, encouraging them to try new forms of exercise, like yoga.

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.

The Boulia Shire, located in Central West Queensland, has been in drought since April 2013. With a total population of 426, Boulia residents are turning to community groups to stay active and connected.

These not-for-profit groups are relying on events – such as BBQ fundraisers – to sustain their activities. But it’s not easy. Without access to commercial BBQ equipment, fundraising opportunities are limited. Some groups choose to use privately owned BBQ’s, but these are clunky to move, and raise concerns about volunteer safety.

The Boulia Shire Council is the main employer in the area and supports 12 local community groups. To provide better fundraising opportunities across all groups, the Council set a new objective in 2018 – to source a multi-purpose BBQ unit.

The Council receieved a $26,000 grant from the Tackling Tough Times Together program, funded by Tim and Gina Fairfax, to purchase their new Chill’n’Grill BBQ trailer. The trailer included a fridge and safety equipment, which would allow community groups to transport and operate it safely.

Since its arrival in January 2019, the BBQ trailer has been widely used in the Boulia community. It was first fired up for Australia Day celebrations, which was a big hit on all accounts. Later in the year, the Central West Hospital and Health Services used it for its ‘Health & Wellbeing’ visits and for the ‘Man with a Pram’ Father’s Day function. The BBQ trailer quickly became a popular meeting spot at these events, as attendees could gather around it to share a snack, socialise and show support for neighbours experiencing hardship.

“The trailer has made our working times so much more enjoyable,” said one group organiser. “Great resource. Easy to use, very clean and also easy to clean.”

The Boulia Shire Council is proud of its new fundraising equipment. They are committed to covering ongoing costs for the trailer and are confident their local groups will continue to use it. “This is the start of a domino effect,” a Council representative said. “Better experiences for organisers mean a better chance of more activities, events and functions for the community.”

Bendigo, 19 May 2020: Fifty-eight community-led projects that help drought-affected rural, regional and remote Australian communities are sharing in nearly $2 million in grants, through the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Tackling Tough Times Together (TTTT) program. 

While COVID-19 and the bushfires have taken centre stage over the past six months, the drought and long-term rainfall deficiencies remain severe across much of the country. Despite the good rainfall earlier in the year, the drought is far from over. Many communities, like those throughout New South Wales and across the Murray-Darling Basin (which runs through Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria and South Australia), who are experiencing the driest 36-month period on record. In Queensland, 67.4 percent of the state is drought-declared. Other areas affected by extended periods of rainfall shortages include eastern Victoria, eastern and northern Tasmania, eastern South Australia and parts of southwest Western Australia.

FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton says these communities haven’t been forgotten and FRRR is here to help them get through these dry times.

“We know that large parts of the country are still in drought, and coupled with the impacts of COVID-19, and for many the bushfires too, this is a particularly challenging time. Keeping money flowing into rural areas is a priority for FRRR, so that these communities can continue to work at building capacity and long-term resilience,” said Ms Egleton.

TTTT Program Coordinator, Deanne Cavalier, says that Tackling Tough Times Together grants support projects that aim to reduce social isolation, develop leadership and skills training, social and educational participation, stimulate economic activity and build the capacity of local not-for-profit organisations.

“This round of TTTT saw the most applications since the program’s 2018 national expansion. It’s clear that these communities still need help to access the resources they need to support one another through the ongoing effects of the drought. 

“It’s vital to be flexible and support local recovery efforts in a way that meets the needs of each community now, and into the medium to long-term. That’s why we are open to project variations and supporting organisations pivoting and thinking laterally when it comes to their projects and how grant funds are used during COVID-19 restrictions,” said Ms Cavalier.

Some of the 58 projects awarded this round include:

• Quilpie Cultural Society Incorporated, QLD – Defying the Drought through Creativity – $31,466 – Relieve current stressors of drought and improve community health and social wellbeing through the installation of new resources at the Cultural Society, and the delivery of a variety of art and craft workshops.
• Kingaroy BaconFest Inc, QLD – Kingaroy BaconFest 2021 – $58,300 – Support fatigued volunteers and reduce social and economic issues by showcasing local industry and produce and highlighting the importance of buying 100 percent Australian pork product.
• Lions Club of Ulladulla Milton Incorporated, NSW – Farmers at Burrill (FAB) – $17,138 – Support local industries, economy and tourism, and reduce social isolation through the delivery of a local Farmers’ Market that will showcase local producers and encourage tourists to the region.
• Colbinabbin & District Historical Society, VIC – The Development of Colbinabbin Silo Art Viewing Area – $59,800 – Reinvigorate local community spirit and the economy by developing land adjacent to the Colbinabbin silo art project into parklands featuring a native garden, walking tracks, and a silo viewing platform.
• Arno Bay Progress Association Incorporated, SA – Tasting Arno – $3,606 – Reduce social isolation and stimulate the local economy by encouraging the broader community to participate in an accessible, low cost, local event.

Tackling Tough Times Together is possible thanks to the collaborative support of a number of donors, including the Australian Government which committed $15M to be distributed over three years. Generous contributions have also been made by NRMA, 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 next cut-off dates for applications to be considered are:

• 28 May 2020. Outcomes will be advised late August 2020.
• 27 August 2020. (Note, expressions of interest for the $150,000 tier must be received by 16 July 2020.) Outcomes will be advised late November 2020.

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

Jump to : NSW | QLD | SA | VIC

Organisation	Project	Location	Grant
NEW SOUTH WALES
Up to $60,000
Billimari Public Hall & Recreation Reserve Land Manager	Kitchen in Billimari Hall Upgrade Billimari Hall kitchen to increase safety and amenity for local community cultural events and meetings.	Billimari	$58,677
Boggabri and Districts Historical Society	Installation of Vinyl Cladding Increase comfort and reduce ongoing maintenance of Boggabri Men’s Shed and Museum buildings through recladding.	Boggabri	$35,120
Clare Public School Parents and Citizens Association	Sustainable Community Kitchen at Clare Public School Enhance catering and cooking activities for the community and school students through the construction of a kitchen at Clare Public School.	Clare	$59,730
Community College-Northern Inland Incorporated	Capacity Building for Community Education Futures in the Northern Inland Increase the capacity and viability of education provider in drought affected areas that provides job ready skills and training.	Barraba	$37,500
Condobolin and District Landcare Management Committee	Recovery Festival Strengthening local communities by providing a platform to drive economic growth, social cohesion and cultural identity through delivery of a free Festival at Condobolin.	Condobolin	$60,000
Cypress View Lodge Limited	Cypress View Lodge (CVL) Solar Upgrade Increase viability of Cypress View Lodge through installation of solar system, supporting locals to stay within their community as they age and need more assistance with daily living and health needs.	Coleambally	$59,696
Dunedoo Bowling Club Limited	Air Conditioning Replacement Increase comfort and amenity of meeting area in drought affected community through air conditioning upgrade at Dunedoo Bowling Club.	Dunedoo	$34,100
Growmolong Incorporated	“The Molong Story” Mural Artworks Increase economic growth through attracting tourists to view silo and tank art at Molong.	Molong	$60,000
Guyra Adult Learning Association Incorporated	The Guyra Gazette Lifeline Increased capacity to produce local newspaper to support the community to; maintain strong connections; raise awareness of local events and activities; encourage social interaction; and inform community of local issues during a period of drought.	Guyra	$40,422
Gwymac Incorporated	Community Planting Bees – For a healthy and Connected Inverell Region Reduce social isolation and increase community connectedness through redevelopment of local community hub, Inverell Community Garden.	Inverell	$56,177
Hartbeat of the Bush Incorporated	Beat of The Bush Festival 2020 Reduce social isolation and support opportunities for educational participation for children and young people through the delivery of the Beat of The Bush Festival in Tenterfield.	Tenterfield	$55,000
Manilla Community Renewable Energy Incorporated	Renewable Manilla Increase social connections and provide activities that support learning at the Renewable Manilla Festival.	Manilla	$27,500
Mungindi Community Preschool Incorporated	Optimal Start for Parched Children Continued delivery of early childhood education regardless of low enrolments in Mungindi through support for program costs.	Mungindi	$60,000
South West Arts Incorporated	Youth Community Radio Station Enhance leadership development and skills training opportunities for young people of Deniliquin and surrounds through the creation of the Youth Community Radio Station.	Deniliquin	$28,000
UCA – Greenthorpe	Going To Print Increase opportunities for the community to connect, support each other and express themselves through the arts.	Greenethorpe	$57,950
Up to $20,000
Age of Fishes Museum Incorporated	Three Fossil Stands for the Age of Fishes Museum Encourage local tourism and enhance educational opportunity through the provision of three fossil display stands at the Age of Fishes Museum, Canowindra.	Canowindra	$7,217
Borah Creek Public Hall Land Manager	Solar Panels to the Borah Creek Hall Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the installation of solar power to the Borah Creek Hall.	Rocky Glen	$7,954
Delungra Public School	Exploring the Ocean Landscape Enhance social and educational participation for children disadvantaged through drought by the delivery of a weeklong excursion for students of Delungra and Gilgai Public Schools to Lake Ainsworth.	Delungra	$20,000
Hope Bathurst Incorporated	Upgrade of Hopecare Café Kitchen Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the upgrade to the Hopecare Café Kitchen.	Bathurst	$16,900
Lions Club of Ulladulla Milton Incorporated	Farmers At Burrill (FAB) Enhance economic recovery and renewal through the development and delivery of the Farmers at Burrill (FAB) Farmers Market as a pilot market over the 2020/2021 Summer.	Burrill Lake	$10,210
Mungery Recreation Reserve Land Manager	Mungery Skillion Enhance and repair local meeting place that supports the delivery of community events and activities that increase local connectedness and reduce isolation.	Mungery	$20,000
Narrabri Shire Community Radio Incorporated	Fit Out of a New Studio Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the fit out of a second radio studio at Narrabri Shire Community Radio.	Narrabri	$11,000
Scout Association of Australia First Dubbo Scout Group	Water Tanks for Hall Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the installation of water tanks at the First Dubbo Scout Group Hall.	Dubbo	$4,619
Tibooburra & District Progress Association	Outback Lock-Up Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the provision of two shipping containers at the community Albert Hall and Cemetery.	Tibooburra	$10,500
QUEENSLAND
Up to $60,000
Balonne Shire Council	Bollon Park and Riverland Revitalisation Upgrade local parklands through installation of new seating, lighting and irrigation, to encourage social connection and enhance local events and activities.	Bollon	$60,000
Boulia Golf Club Incorporated	Rejuventation of Boulia Golf Club – The Hub of the Shire Improve and repair Boulia Golf Club to encourage community connectedness and reduce social isolation during period of drought.	Boulia	$60,000
Centre For Rural and Regional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Limited	Tucka-Time Program – Fruit and Vegetable Box Addition Increase access to fresh fruit and improve nutrition for aboriginal primary students in the Gladstone Region.	Gladstone	$37,500
Goondiwindi Pastoral and Agricultural Society	“Putting Rubbish in its Place, With a Hop, Skip and Dump” Increase the capacity of volunteers to deliver events and activities that support economic and social benefits for the drought affected community of Goondiwindi.	Goondiwindi	$47,024
Junction View Hall Association Incorporated	Junction View Hall Upgrade Continued access to Junction View Hall through roof repair and external painting, allowing locals to connect and support each other at locally driven activities.	Junction View	$52,146
Kingaroy BaconFest Incorporated	Kingaroy BaconFest 2020 Increase capacity of Festival Committee through support and infrastructure for Kingaroy BaconFest event delivery.	Kingaroy	$58,300
Lockyer Multicultural Association Incorporated	Connecting and Empowering the Lockyer Valley Community Through Local Produce Improved use of local produce through training opportunities for businesses and the wider community in the Lockyer Valley.	Gatton	$59,200
Monto Magic Tourism Action Group Incorporated	Silo Mural – Revitalisation of Monto Support local economic recovery and renewal through increased tourism through the painting of four grain silos at Monto.	Monto	$60,000
Quilpie Cultural Society Incorporated	Defying the Drought Through Creativity Enhance opportunities to participate in creative activities for the Quilpie community through the purchase of resources and the delivery of art workshops.	Quilpie	$31,466
Red Ridge (Interior Queensland) Limited Channel Country Ladies Day Committee	Building Resilience in Isolated Outback Women Through the Channel Country Ladies Day Reduce social isolation and enhance coping skills for women in Western Queensland through delivery of the Channel Country Ladies Day 2020.	Quilpie	$55,000
South Burnett Woodcrafters Incorporated	SBW Workshop Development Increased space for members of the community to interact with others in a supportive and activity driven environment, through fit out of the new South Burnett Woodcrafters building.	Kingaroy	$59,757
UCA – Longreach Congregation	Kitchen Renovation in Edgely Hall Increase function and expand capacity of local meeting space through kitchen upgrade at Longreach UCA Hall.	Longreach	$57,392
Yelarbon Primary P&C Association	Greener Fields Reduce the dust and dirt through upgrade of place space at Yelarbon Primary School supporting social and educational participation and address disadvantage for children and young people.	Yelarbon	$45,000
Up to $20,000
Allora Community Circle	Keeping Allora’s Spirit Alive Enhance community cohesion and reduce social isolation through the delivery of two community events in Allora.	Southern Downs Region	$19,987
Alpha Amateur Swimming Club	Outback Drowning Prevention Program Enhance opportunity for social and educational participation and address disadvantage for young people caused by drought through the delivery of an 8 week swimming safety program in Alpha.	Alpha	$20,000
Ballyneety Rodeo Club Incorporated	Ballyneety Rodeo Campdraft & Gymkhana Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase organisational capacity through the purchase of 20 tables and 50 chairs for the Aramac community.	Aramac	$2,430
Thallon Progress Association Incorporated	Protecting our Future Reduce social isolation through the installation of a permanent shade structure over the iconic “William the Wombat” playground sculpture in Thallon.	Thallon	$16,000
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Up to $60,000
Greenock Institute Management Committee Incorporated	Greenock Institute Kitchen Renewal Upgrade to the kitchen at Greenock Institute to enhance community events and functions with catering.	Greenock	$26,390
Lucky Bay Shackowners Association	Laughter at Lucky Bay Support a stronger social fabric and enhanced wellbeing through the installation of a playground at Lucky Bay foreshore.	Lucky Bay	$51,597
Parachilna Community Association Incorporated	Parachilna Community Association Airstrip Increase visitation and economic benefits, and access to services such as the Flying Doctor through construction of an airstrip at remote Parachilna.	Parachilna	$60,000
Port Vincent Progress Association Incorporated	Port Vincent Water Tower Mural Project Increase tourism and economic benefits for the Port Vincent community through creation of an art installation on 20 metre water tank.	Port Vincent	$54,500
Up to $20,000
Arno Bay Progress Association Incorporated	Tasting Arno Reduce social isolation through the delivery of the Tasting Arno event.