Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal
More than 100 projects funded across Australia
More than 100 projects set to strengthen remote, rural and regional Australia have been given an encouraging boost, with 96 communities sharing in $1,112,492 in grants, thanks to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program.
The successful communities, which range across Australia from remote Kintore in the Northern Territory, to Jundah in Queensland and Leonora in Western Australia, will use the grants of up to $25,000 for a broad range of inspiring projects.
Led by local people, these initiatives vary from encouraging young people from Arnhem Land communities to connect with culture and make healthy lifestyle choices by getting them involved in creating edible garden plots, to helping the community of South Arm continue its recovery following the Black Summer bushfires by purchasing amenities and safety equipment to prepare the local hall for future disaster events.
It’s just one of 34 grants going to communities with the unique challenge of overcoming the impacts of the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires. Supported through a special stream of funding, these regions will share in $589,945 in grants for projects designed to help seed and strengthen their recovery.
Sarah Matthee, FRRR’s Acting CEO, said that communities have found diverse ways to build up their resilience and support one another.
“This round we have seen communities drawing on their strong community partnerships to find ways of helping to make their community a more resilient and connected place,” Ms Matthee said.
“Communities have also shown us how much they value the vital contributions made by volunteers. We have funded several projects that support and recognise these people, and help tackle the fatigue they feel, especially in light of this year’s challenges.
“For bushfire-affected communities, COVID-19 has not lessened their determination to keep on recovering, despite the pandemic resulting in gatherings and events, which would have helped people connect and rebuild, being postponed or cancelled. Local leaders have put forward great ideas that are sure to help lift community spirits.
“Regardless of where these communities are at, the SRC program is flexible enough to fund projects that will help communities to seed strengthen, adapt and evolve, and innovate and renew,” Ms Matthee explained.
Some of the 101 projects awarded include:
- Dalaigur Pre-school and Children’s Services Aboriginal Corporation, NSW – Transportation 2021 – $10,000 – Increase Kempsey children’s access to educational, social and health opportunities by providing a bus service for Aboriginal Early Childhood Education Services students.
- West Daly Regional Council, NT – West Daly Regional Council’s Community BBQ Trailer – $9,068 – Create a more engaged community and enhance locals’ sense of place by purchasing a BBQ trailer that will be used during emergency and disaster relief efforts and for community events.
- Pomona & District Community House Inc, QLD – Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project – $18,891 – Increase access, support and resources for local youth in Pomona by delivering a facilitated, structured community-based youth program.
- Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc, SA – Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard – $24,640 – Increase access to local produce and the social and economic recovery of Kangaroo Island by employing a part-time project manager to help reopen the Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market and develop a pop-up activity space.
- Live Well Tasmania, TAS – Renovating our Community Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing – $9,980 – Create a safe space for youth by renovating the local Community Centre.
- Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail, VIC – Tour de Trail – $3,700 – Promote health and wellbeing by encouraging people to participate in a bike-ride/fun day event in Mansfield in March 2021.
- Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation, WA – Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (Kala) in Ngadju Country $25,000 – Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance by clearing tracks to make access easier for cultural mosaic burns.
The SRC program is collaboratively supported by a number of generous donors, which are listed on the Strengthening Rural Communities program page.
The next round of SRC grants will be announced March 2021. The current round is accepting applications until 23 February 2021.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Jump to: NSW | NT | QLD | SA | TAS | VIC | WA
Organisation |
Project |
Location |
Awarded |
---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES |
|||
Hillston and District Aquatic Club Inc | Upgrade Lake Woorabinda Access to Water Build community resilience and engagement in water activities through the upgrade and drought proofing of Lake Woorabinda. |
Hillston | $10,000 |
Mendooran & District Development Group | Main Street Seating in Mendooran Strengthen community connection through the provision of safe seating and exterior upgrade Masonic Lodge. |
Mendooran | $841 |
Collins Creek Public Hall Land Manager | Improvements to Acoustic Properties of the Collins Creek Community Hall Enhance community identity through improving the acoustic quality of the Community Hall. |
Collins Creek | $10,000 |
Gilgandra Council | Capturing the Memories and Local Characters Promote social inclusion and wellbeing by documenting stories from residents of Cooee Lodge and Jack Towney Hostel. |
Gilgandra | $10,000 |
Lightning Ridge Opal and Fossil Centre Inc | Australian Opal Centre (AOC) 2021-2023 Strategic Plan Development Project Build organisational resilience through the development of a 3 year strategic plan for the Lightening Ridge Fossil and Opal Centre. |
Lightning Ridge | $10,000 |
Tenterfield Show Society Inc | Connecting 1876 and 2020 Contribute to a culturally vibrant community through preservation and display of locally significant artifacts and memorabilia. |
Tenterfield | $10,000 |
Circartus Inc | Circartus Train the Trainer Strengthen Circartus organisational capacity by delivering a train the trainer program. |
Wingham | $9,970 |
Kootingal and District Pre-School Inc | Aboriginal Program and Clay Program Strengthen engagement with Aboriginal culture through the delivery of a program of structured play activities for preschool children at Kootingal & District Preschool. |
Kootingal | $8,000 |
Burringbar School of Arts | Purchase and Installation of Commercial Dishwasher Increase volunteer capacity through the purchase of a commercial dishwasher for Burringbar School of Arts. |
Burringbar | $4,698 |
Dalaigur Pre-school and Children’s Services Aboriginal Corporation | Transportation 2021 Enable access to quality learning environments through the provision of transport services for young children to attend Dalaigur Pre-school. |
Kempsey | $10,000 |
Howlong Toy Library | The Power of ‘Picnics and Play’ Enrich local community interaction through the purchase of resources for a series of mindful play and dinner events for families and children in Howlong. |
Howlong | $5,541 |
Kendall Mens Shed | Routing Increase organisational capacity through the purchase of a router to support fundraising capacity for Kendall Men’s Shed members. |
Kendall | $2,463 |
Utungun Community Hall Section 355 Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council |
Utungun Hall – Sitting Pretty and Moving Safely Support Volunteer capacity through the purchase of chairs and equipment for Utungun Community Hall. |
Utungun | $4,020 |
Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network Hawkesbury River County Council |
Regenerating our Bushland after Fire, Hawkesbury Increase local capacity to manage environmental recovery, through delivery of a series of workshops and events on topics such as weed management and erosion. |
Bilpin | $16,000 |
Community Foundation for Albury Wodonga Region Ltd | Digital Storytelling Celebrate and encourage local giving post-bushfire via a digital storytelling project. |
Albury | $10,000 |
Glenrac Incorporated | Emergency Preparedness for Future Challenges – Glen Innes NSW Increase support for recovering community, through delivery of wellbeing events and mental health first aid training. |
Glen Innes | $17,150 |
Marine Rescue Kioloa Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW |
Marine Rescue Base Facilities Upgrade Increase local capacity to maintain volunteer marine rescue service base facility, though replacement of carpet. |
Kioloa – Bawley Point | $5,000 |
Eden Tourism Inc | Relocation of Eden Visitor Information Centre Increase amenity and function of new Eden Visitor Information Centre, through professional design and development of internal areas. |
Eden | $20,000 |
Hartley Vale Mount Blaxland Reserve Land Manager | Ground Penetrating Radar Survey Heal the community through the establishment of all burial sites located at the Hartley Vale Cemetery. |
Hartley | $16,016 |
Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club Inc. | Replacement of Community Infrastructure – The Boating and Fishing Jetty at Spencer Park Merimbula Lake Increase capacity to fundraise for replacement of local jetty, though support to complete development application and design planning. |
Merimbula | $14,850 |
South Arm Hall Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council |
Making South Arm Hall Resilient, Welcoming and Aiding Recovery Strengthen South Arm Hall’s resilience and preparedness for future disaster events through the purchase of safety and amenity items. |
South Arm | $25,000 |
Nimbin Community Centre Incorporated | Walkways Together – from Jarjums to Elders Support community resilience through replacement of covered walkways at Nimbin Community Centre. |
Nimbin | $9,700 |
The Southern Highlands Foundation | FireAid Bushfire Appeal/Covid-19 Appeal Strengthen capacity of the Foundation to support their community post bushfire through the employment of an Executive Officer. |
Balmoral | $25,000 |
Bombala Pre School Inc | Urban & Indigenous Agriculture Project Increase local resilience and intergenerational connections, through construction of codesigned community space and permaculture skills. |
Bombala | $15,000 |
Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre Inc | Play in Nature Support early childhood development through the construction of a Natural Playground at Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre. |
Evans Head | $9,575 |
Salt Care Limited | Salt Life Support vulnerable cohorts across Shoalhaven via support groups facilitated by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program. |
Nowra/ Bomaderry | $15,000 |
The Elands Community Health & First Aid Centre Incorporated | Refurbishments for Community Centre Increase comfort and capacity of Elands local meeting space, through installation of air conditioning and solar system with battery. |
Elands | $24,102 |
Ettrick Hall Committee Inc | Ettrick Hall Bathroom Upgrade Increase local capacity and disaster preparedness, through upgrading bathroom facilities at local hall to include a shower for emergency personal and displaced residents. |
Ettrick | $10,000 |
Do It For Batlow | Weemala Hill Walking and Riding Trails – Batlow Lookout Renew access to local walking trails that support health and wellbeing through employment of contractors to clear burnt trees and reinvigorate the area. |
Batlow | $25,000 |
Macdonald Valley Association | Macdonald Valley Community – Book of Fires Advance the recovery of the Macdonald Valley through the creation of a book which documents and celebrates community resilience. |
St Albans | $22,870 |
Pambula Business Chamber Incorporated | Pambula Art Project Increase visitation to the region and highlight local history and culture, through development and installation of a series of artworks across the Pambula township. |
Pambula | $25,000 |
NORTHERN TERRITORY |
|||
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Assoc (Aboriginal Corporation) | 40 Years of CAAMA – Compilation Album Set Celebrate and promote Indigenous culture and musicianship through creation of four CD set of Central Australian Indigenous music. |
Alice Springs | $10,000 |
One Tree Community Services Inc | Green Book Increase accessibility and feelings of security and inclusion with the creation of restful outdoor space at Wadeye Women’s Refuge. |
Wadeye | $8,000 |
MJD Foundation Ltd | MJD International Centre of Excellence – Umbakumba Enable provision of allied health services and research for sufferers of Machado Joseph Disease on Groote Eylandt through fit out of accommodation for researchers and allied health workers. |
Umbakumba | $10,000 |
East Arnhem Regional Council | Healthier Eating through Edible Gardens in East Arnhem Indigenous Communities Support community engagement and active lifestyles, leading to healthier outcomes for community members, with the establishment of edible gardens. |
Milingimbi | $10,000 |
Katherine Isolated Children’s Service Incorporated | Remote Mobile Playgroup Create equal opportunities for early childhood development through access to mobile playgroups in very remote locations across Central Australia. |
Katherine | $10,000 |
West Daly Regional Council | West Daly Regional Council’s Community BBQ Trailer Build community connectedness and support social connection through provision of a BBQ trailer for Council and community run events. |
Wadeye | $9,068 |
QUEENSLAND |
|||
The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited | C&K Hoey Street’s Sustainable Food Forest Foster healthy eating habits and connection to the environment, through the establishment of a sustainable food garden at the local kindergarten. |
Sarina | $1,252 |
Cloncurry Kindergarten Association Inc | Screens for outside buildings Increase educational opportunities at Cloncurry Kindergarten through the provision of retractable screens for outdoor buildings. |
Cloncurry | $10,000 |
Abergowrie Primary P&C Association | The Voices of our Yarning Circle Support cultural literacy and community engagement in education through the building of a landscaped Yarning Circle. |
Ingham | $10,000 |
Bana Mindilji Aboriginal Corporation | Installation of Composting Toilets on Country Promote environmental sustainability and organisational capacity through the installation of composting toilets at remote station. |
Wujal Wujal | $10,000 |
Burdekin Woodcrafts Association Incorporated | Kitchen Replacement Strengthen community engagement through upgrade of kitchen facilities at the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association. |
Ayr | $9,765 |
Focus on Food and Fibre Conference Nindigully Landcare Group Incorporated |
Focus on Food and Fibre Conference Build community and agricultural resilience through support for food and fibre conference. |
St George | $10,000 |
Jundah Local Ambulance Committee | Emergency Response Training Improve emergency response capacity by enabling volunteers to participate in training. |
Jundah | $3,250 |
Kilkivan Show & Campdraft Association Inc | Defibtech Lifeline Package & Community COVID-19 Pack Support community safety and health outcomes, through the purchase of a defibrillator machine and community COVID-19 pack. |
Kilkivan | $5,228 |
QCWA St George Branch The Queensland Country Women’s Association |
QCWA St George – Empowerment Through Technology! Help people stay connected by purchase of IT equipment to increase the digital capacity of local CWA. |
St George | $1,969 |
Queensland Rural Regional and Remote Women’s Network Incorporated | Advancing towards 2030. Increase digital capability and capacity through the purchase of integrated membership and fundraising IT platform. |
Goondiwindi | $10,000 |
Roughlie Community Centre Incorporated | Purchase of 2 Refrigerators for Cold Storage Develop organisational resilience and capacity through the purchase of refrigerator for community centre. |
Roma | $4,798 |
Texas & District Kindergarten Association Inc | Replace Two Non-compliant Fences at Texas Kindergarten. Support a safe outdoor early learning environment through upgrade of fencing at local kindergarten. |
Texas | $6,974 |
Artworks Granite Belt Inc. | ArtWorks Station Cafe upgrade Increase capacity and enhance facilities at volunteer run Artworks Station Cafe, through upgrade of kitchen and outdoor eating area. |
Stanthorpe | $9,066 |
Pomona & District Community House Inc | Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project Increase access to support and resources for local youth in Pomona, through delivery of a facilitated, structured community based youth program. |
Pomona | $18,891 |
SOUTH AUSTRALIA |
|||
Scouts SA – Roonka Water Activity Centre Scout Association of Aust SA Branch |
Tree Planting and Installation of Solar Powered Watering System Restore and conserve local habitat and generate community engagement through the creation of a native garden. |
Blanchetown | $4,139 |
Port Neill War Memorial Hall | Inclusion and Access for All at our Hall Enhance community well-being and connectedness and improve the amenity of a community hall through the installation of an all ability toilet. |
Port Neill | $8,034 |
Mannum Men’s Shed Inc | Continue to Work by Purchasing a Thicknesser Increase social engagement by purchasing new equipment and strengthen the Men’s Shed capacity to support participants and deliver community projects. |
Mannum | $1,299 |
Parndana Progress Association – Walking Trail Sub-Committee Parndana Progress Association |
Parndana Fitness Trail – Outdoor Gym Station Increase access to equipment that supports health and wellbeing, through installation of outdoor fitness equipment at Kangaroo Island West Lions Park. |
Parndana | $16,838 |
Kangaroo Island Yacht Club Inc | Community Hub Upgrade to Support Community Resilience Enhance community activities that support connectedness at the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club, through upgrade of aged kitchen facilities. |
Kingscote | $25,000 |
Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc | Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard Increase support for reopening of community market and development of pop up activity space in Kingscote, through employment of a part time project manager. |
Kingscote | $24,640 |
The Cudlee Creek Tennis & Basket Ball Club Inc | A Community Led Project: Our Community Hub and Tennis Courts Increase preparedness for disaster and enhanced community facilities for a community recovering from bushfire, through upgrade of fencing, drainage, water storage and landscaping at local hub. |
Cudlee Creek | $25,000 |
TASMANIA |
|||
Lorinna Residents & Ratepayers Association Inc | Lorinna Hall Improved Access Project Enhance community well-being and connectedness and improve the amenity of a community hall through the installation of an all ability access ramp. |
Lorinna | $2,000 |
Live Well Tasmania | Renovating Our Community Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing Create a secure hospitable meeting space and support youth engagement through conducting roof maintenance at a community centre. |
Wynyard | $9,980 |
Dorset Community Association Inc | Outreach and Support Equipment Upgrades Build organisational capacity and increase community engagement through the purchase of equipment for a Neighbourhood House. |
Scottsdale | $9,790 |
Lilydale Volunteer Fire Brigade State Fire Commission (Tas) |
Lilydale Community Smoke Alarm Project Increase safety and build community awareness through the operation of a fire safety project. |
Lilydale |
$7,000 |
VICTORIA |
|||
Friends of Grampians Rail Trail Inc | Grampians Rail Trail Emergency Marker Posts Provide a safe community resource and strengthen opportunities for social engagement through the development of a recreation trail. |
Stawell | $9,111 |
Castlemaine Community House Inc | Food Links – Strengthening Local Food Security Improve community health, wellbeing, and educational development through the establishment of a food security program. |
Castlemaine | $10,000 |
Colac Area Health Foundation | Saving Lives in the Colac Community Improve community health and well-being outcomes through the purchase of healthcare equipment for use in a local Hospital. |
Colac | $10,000 |
Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail | Tour de Trail Enhance well-being outcomes and strengthen community connection through the initiation of a community event. |
Mansfield | $3,700 |
Penshurst Progress Association Inc | Aiding our Community Communication and Cooperation Increase community engagement, volunteer support and social opportunities, through the purchase of a new printer. |
Penshurst | $8,000 |
Central Highlands Rural Health | Transforming Aged Care Residents’ Quality of Life Improve the health and social wellbeing of people living with dementia by providing a interactive games program for residents. |
Daylesford | $10,000 |
Cobden District Health Services Inc | Cobden Health Boiler Room Upgrade Strengthen organisational capacity and support the needs of residents through the upgrade of a boiler-room system. |
Cobden | $10,000 |
Cycling Without Age Portland Inc Rotary Club of Portland Inc |
Cycling Without Age on the Move Strengthen community connections for older people and support volunteer participation though the commencement of a cycling project. |
Portland | $9,000 |
Paynesville Men’s Shed Inc | Let there be Lunch! Improve mental health and social outcomes for older men in the community by upgrading a kitchen and delivering a healthy eating program. |
Paynesville | $4,123 |
St Arnaud Neighbourhood House Inc | The Life Story Projects Improve social participation and the health and wellbeing of aged care residents, through the enhancement of a life story project. |
Donald | $6,810 |
West Wimmera Health Service | Friends Across the Ages Gone Digital Improve the health and social wellbeing of older people by initiating a community connections program. |
Nhill | $10,000 |
Boort Resource and Information Centre | Boort Business and Services Resource Hub Improve community participation and access to services and education through the development of a fit for purpose community hub. |
Boort | $10,000 |
Community Recovery Committee Bunyip Complex Fires Association Inc | Tonimbuk Hall Upgrade Increase community participation and engagement through installation of a climate control system and the upgrade of a Community Hall. |
Tonimbuk | $9,990 |
Cowangie Soldiers Memorial Hall | New Blockout Blinds Strengthen community engagement and participation by replacing coverings which are no longer fit for purpose and creating a space that meets community needs. |
Cowangie | $4,000 |
Kilmore District Men’s Shed Inc | Equipment Promote learning and development and build organisational capacity through the purchase of new technology. |
Kilmore | $2,933 |
Paynesville RSL Sub-Branch | A Warm Glow for Better Health Increase community participation and engagement through installation of a climate control system, creating a comfortable gathering space. |
Paynesville | $10,000 |
Southern Otway Landcare Network Inc | SOLN Support Centre’s Community Shed Increase environmental education and community participation through the creation of a secure, hospitable space. |
Apollo Bay | $10,000 |
Swan Hill Specialist School | SHSS Community Garden Strengthen student engagement and skill development while establishing a connections to the wider community through the expansion of a community garden. |
Swan Hill | $5,346 |
Clunes Neighbourhood House Inc | Weight off your Shoulders: 6 Week Weight Loss and Wellbeing Program Improve the health and well-being of community members through initiating a health focused support program. |
Clunes | $10,000 |
Robinvale Network House Inc | Covid Community Connection Capabilities Increase communication of community education programs and activities through development of a website and communication system. |
Robinvale | $8,862 |
Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network Inc | Ararat Schools Resilient Art Project Increase the resilience and well-being of young people in the community through the delivery of a mindfulness program. |
Ararat | $10,000 |
WESTERN AUSTRALIA |
|||
Empowering Plantagenet Seniors Inc | Empowering Plantagenet Seniors Hub Fit Out Support community engagement and participation through establishment of a Senior’s Hub. |
Mount Baker | $10,000 |
Narembeen Community Resource Centre (CRC) Shire of Narembeen |
Ladies Long Lunch Increase social connectedness, business skills and mental health wellbeing through the Narembeen Ladies Long Lunch event. |
Narembeen | $6,750 |
Esperance Farmers Fund South East Premium Wheat Grower Association |
Set up Foundation – Esperance Farmers Fund Build capacity of Esperance to deliver locally driven community projects that support the wellbeing and growth of the community through establishment of a local community foundation. |
Esperance | $10,000 |
Katampul Aboriginal Corporation | Development Katampul Health and Wellbeing Plan: Working Group Build community capacity through creation of an interagency working group and development of household health and wellbeing plans. |
Leonora | $9,100 |
Tjupan Ngalia Tribal Land Council Aboriginal Corporation | Walkatjurra Kindilink Mural Project Build student and community engagement with education and incorporate cultural learning via a transformative mural design process at Lenora District High School. |
Leonora | $10,000 |
Littlewell Mingenew Aboriginal Reserve Group Shire of Mingenew |
Littlewell Aboriginal Reserve Seating Enhance the amenity of the Littlewell Reserve through provision of seating. |
Mingenew | $10,000 |
Be Living Smart Inc Collie Family Centre Incorporated |
The 10-topic Living Smart Community Course Support community to achieve environmental sustainability goals through seven week Living Smart course. |
Collie | $9,013 |
Lake Grace Community Men’s Shed Inc. | Operation Bandsaw Increase community engagement, social wellbeing and connectedness for men in the Lake Grace region through the replacement of a bandsaw at Men’s Shed. |
Lake Grace | $2,750 |
Northampton Parents and Friends Association | Playground for St Mary’s Primary School Northampton Increase gross and fine motor skill development and children’s physical health and mental wellbeing with purchase of playground equipment for St Mary’s School, Northampton. |
Northampton | $9,000 |
Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation | Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (kala) in Ngadju Country Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance, by clearing tracks that enable access for cultural mosaic burns. |
Norseman Indigenous Location | $25,000 |
34 recovery projects funded across Australia
Thirty-four projects set to seed and strengthen the recovery of communities affected by the 2019-20 bushfires are sharing in $589,945 in grants, thanks to the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program.
The 34 grants are supported through a special stream of bushfire recovery funding via the SRC program. In total, more than 100 projects in remote, rural and regional communities across Australia were awarded $1,112,492 in grants through this round of the program. A full list of all SRC grants can be found here.
The bushfire recovery projects will support impacted communities across Australia from Stanthorpe in Queensland, to Eden in New South Wales, Bairnsdale in Victoria, Cudlee Creek in South Australia, and Ngadju country in Western Australia.
The grants of up to $25,000 will be used for a broad range of inspiring recovery projects, led by local people, such as supporting Shoalhaven’s vulnerable community members by running support groups facilitated by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, or preparing the community of South Arm for future disaster events by purchasing amenities and safety equipment for the local hall.
Sarah Matthee, FRRR’s Acting CEO, said that communities have found diverse ways to build up their resilience and support one another.
“This round we have seen communities drawing on their strong community partnerships to find ways of helping to make their community a more resilient and connected place,” Ms Matthee said.
“Communities have also shown us how much they value the vital contributions made by volunteers. We have funded several projects that support and recognise these people, and help tackle the fatigue they feel, especially in light of this year’s challenges.
“For bushfire-affected communities, COVID-19 has not lessened their determination to keep on recovering, despite the pandemic resulting in gatherings and events, which would have helped people connect and rebuild, being postponed or cancelled. Local leaders have put forward great ideas that are sure to help lift community spirits.
“Regardless of where these communities are at, the SRC program is flexible enough to fund projects that will help communities to seed and strengthen, adapt and evolve, and innovate and renew,” Ms Matthee explained.
Some of the 34 projects awarded via the bushfire recovery stream include:
- Pambula Business Chamber Incorporated, NSW – Pambula Art Project – $25,000 – Increase visitation to the region and highlight local history and culture, through development and installation of a series of artworks across the Pambula township.
- Pomona & District Community House Inc, QLD – Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project – $18,891 – Increase access, support and resources for local youth in Pomona by delivering a facilitated, structured community-based youth program.
- Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc, SA – Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard – $24,640 – Increase access to local produce and the social and economic recovery of Kangaroo Island by employing a part-time project manager to help reopen the Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market and develop a pop-up activity space.
- Koala Island Foundation Inc, VIC – A Sustainable Future Together – $3,400 – Conserve native habitat and increase volunteer support, through the development of a tourist attraction.
- Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation, WA – Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (Kala) in Ngadju Country $25,000 – Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance by clearing tracks to make access easier for cultural mosaic burns.
The SRC program is collaboratively supported by a number of generous donors, which are listed on the Strengthening Rural Communities program page.
The next round of SRC grants will be announced March 2021. The current round is accepting applications until 23 February 2021.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Jump to: NSW | QLD | SA | VIC | WA
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant |
BUSHFIRE RECOVERY PROJECTS | |||
NEW SOUTH WALES | |||
Utungun Community Hall Section 355 Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council |
Utungun Hall – Sitting Pretty and Moving Safely Support Volunteer capacity through the purchase of chairs and equipment for Utungun Community Hall. |
Utungun | $4,020 |
Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network Hawkesbury River County Council |
Regenerating our Bushland after Fire, Hawkesbury Increase local capacity to manage environmental recovery, through delivery of a series of workshops and events on topics such as weed management and erosion. |
Bilpin | $16,000 |
Community Foundation for Albury Wodonga Region Ltd | Digital Storytelling Celebrate and encourage local giving post-bushfire via a digital storytelling project. |
Albury | $10,000 |
Glenrac Incorporated | Emergency Preparedness for Future Challenges – Glen Innes NSW Increase support for recovering community, through delivery of wellbeing events and mental health first aid training. |
Glen Innes | $17,150 |
Marine Rescue Kioloa Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW |
Marine Rescue Base Facilities Upgrade Increase local capacity to maintain volunteer marine rescue service base facility, though replacement of carpet. |
Kioloa – Bawley Point | $5,000 |
Eden Tourism Inc | Relocation of Eden Visitor Information Centre Increase amenity and function of new Eden Visitor Information Centre, through professional design and development of internal areas. |
Eden | $20,000 |
Hartley Vale Mount Blaxland Reserve Land Manager | Ground Penetrating Radar Survey Heal the community through the establishment of all burial sites located at the Hartley Vale Cemetery. |
Hartley | $16,016 |
Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club Inc. | Replacement of Community Infrastructure – The Boating and Fishing Jetty at Spencer Park Merimbula Lake Increase capacity to fundraise for replacement of local jetty, though support to complete development application and design planning. |
Merimbula | $14,850 |
South Arm Hall Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council |
Making South Arm Hall Resilient, Welcoming and Aiding Recovery Strengthen South Arm Hall’s resilience and preparedness for future disaster events through the purchase of safety and amenity items. |
South Arm | $25,000 |
Nimbin Community Centre Incorporated | Walkways Together – from Jarjums to Elders Support community resilience through replacement of covered walkways at Nimbin Community Centre |
Nimbin | $9,700 |
The Southern Highlands Foundation | FireAid Bushfire Appeal/Covid-19 Appeal Strengthen capacity of the Foundation to support their community post bushfire through the employment of an Executive Officer. |
Balmoral | $25,000 |
Bombala Pre School Inc | Urban & Indigenous Agriculture Project Increase local resilience and intergenerational connections, through construction of codesigned community space and permaculture skills. |
Bombala | $15,000 |
Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre Inc | Play in Nature Support early childhood development through the construction of a Natural Playground at Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre. |
Evans Head | $9,575 |
Salt Care Limited | Salt Life Support vulnerable cohorts across Shoalhaven via support groups facilitated by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program. |
Nowra/ Bomaderry | $15,000 |
The Elands Community Health & First Aid Centre Incorporated | Refurbishments for Community Centre Increase comfort and capacity of Elands local meeting space, through installation of air conditioning and solar system with battery. |
Elands | $24,102 |
Ettrick Hall Committee Inc | Ettrick Hall Bathroom Upgrade Increase local capacity and disaster preparedness, through upgrading bathroom facilities at local hall to include a shower for emergency personal and displaced residents. |
Ettrick | $10,000 |
Do It For Batlow | Weemala Hill Walking and Riding Trails – Batlow Lookout Renew access to local walking trails that support health and wellbeing through employment of contractors to clear burnt trees and reinvigorate the area. |
Batlow | $25,000 |
Macdonald Valley Association | Macdonald Valley Community – Book of Fires Advance the recovery of the Macdonald Valley through the creation of a book which documents and celebrates community resilience. |
St Albans | $22,870 |
Pambula Business Chamber Incorporated | Pambula Art Project Increase visitation to the region and highlight local history and culture, through development and installation of a series of artworks across the Pambula township. |
Pambula | $25,000 |
QUEENSLAND | |||
Artworks Granite Belt Inc. | ArtWorks Station Cafe Upgrade Increase capacity and enhance facilities at volunteer run Artworks Station Cafe, through upgrade of kitchen and outdoor eating area. |
Stanthorpe | $9,066 |
Pomona & District Community House Inc | Pomona Youth Resilience and Well-being Project Increase access to support and resources for local youth in Pomona, through delivery of a facilitated, structured community based youth program. |
Pomona | $18,891 |
SOUTH AUSTRALIA | |||
Parndana Progress Association – Walking Trail Sub-Committee Parndana Progress Association |
Parndana Fitness Trail – Outdoor Gym Station Increase access to equipment that supports health and wellbeing, through installation of outdoor fitness equipment at Kangaroo Island West Lions Park. |
Parndana | $16,838 |
Kangaroo Island Yacht Club Inc | Community Hub Upgrade to Support Community Resilience Enhance community activities that support connectedness at the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club, through upgrade of aged kitchen facilities. |
Kingscote | $25,000 |
Kingscote Farmers & Artisan Market Inc | Kingscote Farmers and Artisans Market – The Backyard Increase support for reopening of community market and development of pop up activity space in Kingscote, through employment of a part time project manager. |
Kingscote | $24,640 |
The Cudlee Creek Tennis & Basket Ball Club Inc | A Community Led Project: Our Community Hub and Tennis Courts Increase preparedness for disaster and enhanced community facilities for a community recovering from bushfire, through upgrade of fencing, drainage, water storage and landscaping at local hub. |
Cudlee Creek | $25,000 |
VICTORIA | |||
Omeo Shire Community Access Radio Inc | Replacing the Computer Increase capacity of community radio station to communicate local news and information, though purchase of computer, software and printer. |
Omeo | $1,932 |
Sarsfield Recreation reserve Committee of Management Inc | Purchase of Lawn Mower Increase capacity for volunteers that manage local community reserve and meeting area, through purchase of ride on mower. |
Sarsfield | $22,000 |
Everton Hall and Sports Complex Committee Wangaratta Rural City Council |
Everton Community Hub Precinct Revitalisation – BBQ Shelter Stage 2 Enhance local meeting space and recovery activities, through construction of BBQ area and pathways at Everton reserve. |
Everton | $11,276 |
Bruthen Mechanics Institute | Bruthen Hall Ready for Community Disaster Response Increase local resilience to support recovery efforts, and support social gatherings, through upgrade to Bruthen Mechanics Institute kitchen. |
Bruthen | $24,299 |
Ensay Mechanics Institute Reserve Inc | Ensay Memorial Hall – Exterior Painting Increase support for rural community to maintain local meeting area as a disaster assembly point, through painting the Ensay Hall. |
Ensay | $23,320 |
Mallacoota Inlet Bowling Club Inc | Mallacoota Bowls Club as a Hub for Community Support Resume community activities that support social connectedness, through repair and upgrade to the fire effected Mallacoota Inlet Bowling Club. |
Mallacoota | $25,000 |
Koala Island Foundation Inc | A Sustainable Future Together Conserve native habitat and increase volunteer support, through the development of a tourist attraction. |
Raymond Island | $3,400 |
East Gippsland Winter Festival Working Group East Gippsland Marketing Inc |
East Gippsland Winter Festival Increase visitation and economy through employment of a Community Engagement Manager to support delivery of the East Gippsland Winter Festival. |
Bairnsdale | $25,000 |
WESTERN AUSTRALIA | |||
Ngadju Conservation Aboriginal Corporation | Rebuilding Community Through Clearing Tracks for Management of Fire (Kala) in Ngadju Country Increase fire preparedness in the Great Western Woodlands and maintain cultural sites of significance, by clearing tracks that enable access for cultural mosaic burns. |
Norseman Indigenous Location | $25,000 |
Funding for communities impacted by 2009 Black Saturday fires
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) has awarded nearly $725,000 in grants to support 31 projects that will help communities impacted by the February 2009 Black Saturday bushfires continue to rebuild, reconnect and recover.
Supported by the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund (VBAF), these grants are funded through three grant programs – Grants for Resilience & Wellness (GR&W), GR&W Kinglake Ranges and the final round of Community Group Futures (CGF).
The VBAF funding comes from the generous contributions by the general public following the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009. More than a decade on from Black Saturday, FRRR has awarded more than $4.5 million in grants to local groups through these programs.
Grants for Resilience & Wellness
The GR&W program is tailored to support community-led projects that focus on strengthening and building the resilience of those places impacted by the 2009 Victorian bushfires.
Now in its nineth year, this round of GR&W sees $233,089 in grants awarded to 15 community groups. The funded projects will support and improve the wellbeing, resilience and mental health of community members, help people keep coming together, and help build community capacity and preparedness for future disasters.
Nina O’Brien, Disaster and Recovery Lead at FRRR, said that this round, there were many communities wanting funding for projects that help people connect and also retain their sense of place and community identity.
“Many communities reach a stage in their long-term recovery where reconnecting with place, the environment, and community becomes an important part of the healing process,” explained Ms O’Brien.
“Rediscovering and rebuilding these connections can happen in many different and meaningful ways, and this round of GR&W is a perfect example of that. For some communities, it involves improving community meeting places and venues for activities. Others are using arts and cultural projects to both increase community connectedness and grow community identity and awareness of local history. Other places are helping their community to connect through events and activities like concerts and walking trails.
“Recovery takes time and the process is different for every place, so it’s important that we listen to communities and their local leaders and let them decide what priorities need to be addressed, as things evolve,” Ms O’Brien said.
Some of the projects funded in this round of the GR&W program include:
- Buxton Primary School, Buxton – Buxton Bush Tucker Trail – $15,000 – Enhance curriculum through delivery of an innovative environmental and Indigenous education program that supports custodianship of local ecology.
- Yarra Valley ECOSS, Wesburn – Crops for Community to Market – $20,000 – Build a vibrant resilient local food economy through employment of a disability support worker to deliver and develop programs for disaster affected residents.
Grants for Resilience & Wellness Kinglake Ranges
The GR&W Kinglake Ranges program gives community groups and local not-for-profit organisations in the Kinglake Ranges the opportunity to work together and increase local capacity to get initiatives off the ground. This round, $461,993 has been awarded to 14 projects in the region.
A great example of the collaborative and innovative local thinking is Bees for the House, which will increase access to infrastructure that supports community education, through development of an apiary at the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House.
Among the other GR&W Kinglake Ranges awarded grants are:
- Flowerdale Community House, Flowerdale – Flowerdale Playgroup Program – $26,250 – Increase support for local parents, and enhance early childhood education, through facilitated playgroup program at Flowerdale Community House.
- Kinglake Ranges Children’s Centre, Kinglake – Indigenous Sensory Bush Tucker Garden with Community Mural – $17,530 – Increase cultural and environmental learning through establishment of a yarning circle, firepit, and student inspired mural at a newly developed bush tucker garden.
The next rounds of GR&W and GR&W Kinglake Ranges open early March 2021 and close April 2021. Applications for the GR&W Kinglake Ranges program are now invited from all community groups in the wider Kinglake Ranges, not just those that participated in the initial consultation process in 2017.
Community Group Futures
The CGF program focuses on not-for-profit groups in communities impacted by Black Saturday. It was designed to provide them with the tools to create strong and lasting improvements within their organisation. This is the final round of the CGF program, with $898,237 granted across ten rounds.
Some $29,483 has been awarded to two projects to support the Yackandandah Fire Station and the Stanley Athenaeum and Public Room. The funds will increase their capacity through the purchase of equipment and by funding professional administrative support.
Ms O’Brien said that more than a decade on, these community organisations continue to experience operational and service delivery challenges due to the 2009 bushfires.
“For these community groups, they have had to face the challenge of managing their own recovery while also continuing to provide support and services the people in their communities. The CGF program has supported these organisations to look ahead to the future and implement longer term climate resilience initiatives that will help them achieve their aspirations,” said Ms O’Brien.
“For some community groups, these goals have included greater organisational capabilities, for others it’s been about long-term viability and sustainability, while others looked for ways to improve cost efficiencies for community infrastructure.
“The CGF grants have helped strengthen and sustain these community groups so that they can continue to do what they do best and support their community,” Ms O’Brien explained.
The final projects funded through the CGF program are:
- Totally Renewable Yackandandah, Yackandandah – Yackandandah Fire station – Resilient Power Supply – $9,983 – Increase the capacity of the organisation to reduce costs and remain available during emergencies through the purchase of a generator that will enhance the Fire Station’s new battery and solar system’s capacity.
- Stanley Athenaeum and Public Room Indigo Shire Council, Stanley – Prepare and Protect – $19,500 –Increase organisational capacity by employing professional support to catalogue and preserve Stanley Historical Space’s significant local collection. The project will include training that will leave a legacy in the organisation.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Organisation | Project | Location | Awarded |
GRANTS FOR RESILIENCE AND WELLNESS | |||
Alexandra Football & Netball Club Inc | Reserve Development Enhance facilities that support community connectedness and fitness, via upgrade of power supply for new community hub at Alexandra Football & Netball Club | Alexandra | $15,000 |
Art Resource Collective Inc | Pottery and Print Equipment Fund Increase access to the arts, and local connectedness through, upgrade of ceramics equipment and infrastructure for community arts group | Yinnar | $18,997 |
Arthurs Creek Fire Brigade Country Fire Authority – Head office | Spreading the Knowledge-Bushfire Education Program 2020 Build community resilience, through development of resources to deliver local CFA bushfire awareness program across five schools impacted by the 2009 bushfires. | Strathewen | $20,000 |
Bruarong Community Centre | Protecting and Sharing – Developing the Bruarong Collection Research Resource Preserve and protect the community’s heritage, through uploading and cataloguing images, objects, and documents. | Bruarong | $18,500 |
Buxton Primary School | Buxton Bush Tucker Trail Enhanced curriculum through, delivery of innovative environmental and Indigenous education program that supports custodianship of local ecology. | Buxton | $15,000 |
‘Honour the Taungurung’ Community Project Group Yea Community Service Group Inc | Honour the Taungurung Work towards reconciliation and acknowledgement of traditional owners through creation of a community meeting place featuring Taungurung designed artwork celebrating local Indigenous culture. | Yea | $28,734 |
Kilmore District Men’s Shed Inc | Solar Power Enhance sustainability of local Men’s Shed, through the installation of solar panels. | Kilmore | $8,960 |
Kilmore District Men’s Shed Inc | Plastering Enhance sustainability of local group, through the completion to construction of a local Men’s Shed | Kilmore | $6,054 |
Marysville Community Action Team Murrindindi Cycle Club | Feasibility Study for more cycling options in the Marysville Area to increase tourism Explore potential for ecotourism development and rejuvenation of community’s economy by extending visitor season with feasibility study into Cycle Trails | Marysville | $14,000 |
More Murals Rubicon Forest Protection Group Inc | Life of a Leaf: Notes from the Forest Enhance creative development and recovery, through creation of a 16-track compilation CD reflecting on the Black Saturday fires | Marysville Buxton Taggerty | $15,200 |
Rotary Club of Alexandra | Music in the Park Increase local connection and enhance culture, through supporting the delivery of community music event. | Alexandra | $5,450 |
St Matthew’s Church Saltbush Community Initiatives Inc | Hope…It Grows! Renewal Increase community access and renew facilities, through upgrade to community garden and space. | Long Gully | $15,300 |
Wandong Heathcote Junction Community Group Inc | Provide Seating along the Say G’Day trail at Wandong Enhance local walking trail and increase accessibility for residents with different abilities, through installation of seating areas. | Wandong | $6,695 |
Whittlesea Men’s Shed Inc | Dust Extraction and Air Filtration System Improve the health and well-being of community participants, by upgrading the air filtration system in the wood working workshop. | Whittlesea | $20,000 |
Yarra Valley Ecoss Inc | Crops for Community to Market Build vibrant resilient local food economy, through employment of a disability support worker to deliver and develop programs for disaster affected residents. | Wesburn | $20,000 |
GRANTS FOR RESILIENCE AND WELLNESS – KINGLAKE RANGES | |||
Flowerdale Community House Inc | Flowerdale Playgroup Program Increase support for local parents, and enhance early childhood education, through facilitated playgroup program at Flowerdale Community House. | Flowerdale | $26,250 |
Kinglake Football Netball Club | Community coming together with healthy mind and body Increase local connectedness and reduce social isolation, through delivery of a family focused event at local Sports ground. | Kinglake | $3,530 |
Kinglake Ranges Children’s Centre Inc | Indigenous Sensory Bush tucker Garden with Community Mural Increase cultural and environmental learning through, establishment of a yarning circle, firepit, and student inspired mural, at a newly developed bush tucker garden. | Kinglake | $17,530 |
Buzz of the Bees Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc | Bees for the House Increase access to infrastructure that supports community education, through development of an apiary at the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House. | Kinglake | $7,508 |
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc | Dindi Collective: Supporting Organisational Capacity of Neighbourhood & Community Houses across Murrindindi Increase capacity and collaboration between seven Community Houses in Murrindindi Shire, though establishment of a supportive Network and delivery of professional development. | Kinglake | $64,173 |
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc | Kinglake Ranges Fund – Community Grant Development Officer Increase local capacity to develop community projects and apply for grant funds, through employment of a Community Grants Officer. | Kinglake | $41,941 |
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc | Makerspace Mates Increase opportunities to support connection, reduce isolation, and learn about new interests, through the delivery of free, no skill needed, creative workshops. | Kinglake | $19,763 |
Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc | The Matanya Effect – Healing with Horses – Skills for a Calmer Life Increase access to locally based support for mental health, through the delivery of equine assisted learning to residents of the Kinglake Ranges. | Kinglake | $17,700 |
Kinglake Trust Reserve Inc | Ellimatta Centre Periodic Maintenance Project Increase access to spaces where the community connect, through preservation and maintenance of community hub at Kinglake Trust Reserve. | Kinglake | $25,850 |
Kinglake Historical Society Kinglake West Mechanics Institute Hall and Reserves Committee Inc | Strengthening Community Understanding of Kinglake’s Heritage Increase space and resources for Historical displays and research, through expansion to Kinglake Historical Society and purchase of additional equipment. | Kinglake | $162,334 |
Middle Kinglake Primary School | Providing Opportunities for Positive Social Interaction Increase use of outdoor areas at Middle Kinglake Primary School for learning and socialising, through purchase of outdoor cushions and beanbags. | Kinglake Central | $1,000 |
Rotary Club of Kinglake Ranges Inc | Rotary and Lions Storage Facility Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase local capacity, through the installation of a centrally located storage shed for community equipment. | Kinglake | $39,910 |
Toolangi-Castella Local History Action Plan Working Group Toolangi District Community House Inc | Toolangi-Castella Local history Action Plan Increase local connectedness to culture and heritage, through development of an oral history and photographic display, and website for Toolangi-Castella. | Toolangi | $14,742 |
Toolangi Tennis Court Action Team Toolangi District Community House Inc | Toolangi Tennis Court and Surrounds Re-development Enhance local meeting space and increase safety, through upgrade of pathways, retaining walls, and landscaping at Toolangi Tennis Court reserve | Toolangi | $19,762 |
COMMUNITY GROUP FUTURES | |||
Stanley Athenaeum and Public Room Indigo Shire Council | Prepare and Protect Increase awareness of local historical collections significance, and protect it from future disasters, through engaging a Collection Management Consultant. | Stanley | $19,500 |
Totally Renewable Yackandandah Inc | Yackandandah Fire station – Resilient Power Supply Increase local resilience and preparedness through installation of a generator at the Yackandandah Fire Station. | Yackandandah | $9,983 |
Over $1 million in News Corp Bushfire Fund grants awarded to date
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), in partnership with News Corp, has awarded 18 communities impacted by the Black Summer bushfires a total of $341,280 in grants for 20 projects that will support the recovery of their communities.

The News Corp Bushfire Fund has had an impressive impact in bushfire-affected regions this year, having awarded $1,119,825 in grants to date to support 61 recovery-focused initiatives across affected communities, as they continue to rebuild and recover. The next round of grants will be the final round for the News Corp Bushfire Fund and will bring the distributed funds to a total of $1.5 million.
The News Corp Bushfire Fund grants, of up to $25,000, are awarded to community groups in regions impacted by the 2019-20 bushfires for projects that address a range of needs and priorities for each community. This round saw 20 community groups from bushfire-affected regions across Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria awarded grants for initiatives that build community resilience and preparedness for future disasters, help people connect and support their wellbeing as well as practical upgrades to emergency infrastructure and equipment.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that the demand for a wide range of community resilience projects demonstrates how important it is to let local people decide what the need and priorities are for their community’s recovery.
“We know that local leaders are best placed to know what their community needs, especially as recovery happens at different rates for each impacted place. While projects may vary from place to place, building community resilience and making sure the community is prepared for future emergencies is a common goal for regions that have already been impacted by disaster.
“For some communities, building community resilience means repairing infrastructure damaged by the fire or purchasing emergency equipment such as generators and solar battery systems for use in future emergency situations. For other places building resilience means improving amenities or increasing the capacity of community infrastructure where people connect, engage and support one another.
“It’s great to be able to partner with News Corp to support these communities and their inspiring ideas, which will help bring people together and make recovery meaningful to them,” Ms Egleton explained.
News Corp Australia’s community ambassador Penny Fowler said these grants were especially significant considering the timing.
“Almost a year on, we know some of these communities are feeling like they lived through a ‘forgotten crisis’. But there is still so much work to be done, now and in the long-term.
“This third round of grants builds on the ongoing needs of each community to recover at their own pace – whether that be upgrading essential town halls, providing mental health programs for firefighters, or bringing people together through drive-in movie sessions.”
“Recovery takes years, not months and we are committed to standing by these communities, remembering their loss, their stories, their pain and their bravery.”
Some of the 20 projects awarded include:
- Mann River Men’s Shed – Diehard, NSW – Empowering Community Resilience and Recovery – $25,000 – Support community preparedness and build resilience by installing a solar system to generate power.
- 4 Aussie Heroes Foundation – Boonah, QLD – “Triumph over Trauma” – $23,000 – Support individual wellbeing of first responders with programs to address trauma from bushfire fighting experience.
- Stokes Bay Community Hall – Strokes Bay, SA – Stokes Bay Community Hall Volunteer Hub – $23,279 – Provide a welcoming and functional space by upgrading volunteer facilities.
- Buchan Mechanics Institute and Free Library Reserve – Buchan, VIC – Hall Re-Stumping and Upgrade Kitchen Facilities – $22,042 – Build community resilience with infrastructure improvements to enable group gatherings.
The final round of the News Corp Bushfire Fund grants will open 12 January 2021 and closes 11 February 2021. In total, there is a further $380,175 available. Applications are invited from community groups in Local Government Areas with a bushfire disaster declaration from September 2019 to February 2020. FRRR encourages all grant seekers to subscribe to our eNews and social media channels to be alerted when other funding opportunities are announced, and to be inspired to develop their own community-led projects.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Jump to : NSW | QLD | SA | VIC
Organisation | Project | Location | Awarded |
---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES | |||
Bermagui Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Inc | Power to the People … of Bermagui Build community resilience with the purchase of portable generators publicly available for use in emergency situations. | Bermagui | $10,235 |
Love Long Beach Incorporated | Summer Sundays @ Long Beach Support community connectedness and wellbeing through COVID Safe drive-in events. | Long Beach | $5,682 |
Mann River Men’s Shed | Empowering Community Resilience and Recovery Support community preparedness and build resilience by installing a solar system to generate power. | Diehard | $25,000 |
Moruya Antique Tractor & Machinery Association Inc | Rebuild & Restoration of MATAMA Build community resilience and pride through the rebuild of a museum of community significance for local residents. | Moruya | $25,000 |
Utungun Community Hall Section 355 Committee of Management Nambucca Valley Council | Room to Move at the Utungun Community Hall Build community facility capacity with a storage shed to keep social areas clear of equipment. | Utungun | $8,500 |
Southcoast Health and Sustainability Alliance | Rebuilding Community Resilience Through the Establishment of a Eurobodalla Repair Cafe in Moruya Connect and support community wellbeing by establishing a volunteer social enterprise. | Moruya | $6,394 |
Tomakin Sports & Social Club | Solar Battery System Build community resilience with the supply and installation of a solar battery system to guarantee power in emergencies. | Tomakin | $16,000 |
QUEENSLAND | |||
4 Aussie Heroes Foundation Limited | “Triumph Over Trauma” Support individual wellbeing of first responders with programs to address trauma from bushfire fighting experience. | Boonah | $23,000 |
SOUTH AUSTRALIA | |||
Stokes Bay Community Hall Inc | Stokes Bay Community Hall – Volunteer Hub Upgrade volunteer facilities to provide a welcoming and functional space. | Stokes Bay | $23,279 |
The Cudlee Creek Soldiers Memorial Ground Incorporated | Cudlee Creek Soldiers’ Memorial Hall – Roof Replacement Upgrade community facilities with a new roof to mitigate risk and maintain a functional space. | Cudlee Creek | $25,000 |
VICTORIA | |||
Bairnsdale Neighbourhood House Inc | Mobile Catering Support for East Gippsland Communities Following Natural Disasters Build organisational capacity by fitting out a mobile van to cater for communities in times of crisis. | Bairnsdale | $25,000 |
Benambra Dinner Plain Omeo Landcare Group | BDPO Landcare Equipment Improvements Sustain community facilities for everyday use and preparedness by purchasing safety equipment and repairing aging equipment. | Benambra | $7,787 |
Buchan Mechanics Institute and Free Library Reserve | Hall Re-Stumping and Upgrade Kitchen Facilities Build community resilience with infrastructure improvements to enable group gatherings. | Buchan | $22,042 |
Buchan Recreation Reserve | Fire Pumps for Community Safety Build community resilience with new equipment to increase safety and disaster preparedness. | Buchan | $22,220 |
Cassilis Recreation Reserve Committee of Management | Fire Ready Project Improve community infrastructure for disaster preparedness with a large tank to improve access to water. | Cassilis | $5,830 |
Koala Island Foundation Inc | A Stronger Community and Sustainable Future for Raymond Island Support economic recovery by upgrading park entrances for local and tourist patronage. | Raymond Island | $17,718 |
Lucyvale Tennis Club Inc | Making Lucyvale Hall a Safe Place for our Community in Times of Risk & Need Build community resilience with air condition and quick water access to aid in disasters. | Lucyvale | $20,600 |
Nowa Nowa Pony Club Incorporated | Friendships Beyond Fire Maintain community infrastructure with new equipment to allow social gatherings and events. | Nowa Nowa | $11,500 |
The Man from Snowy River Tourist Association Inc | Take a Seat and Savour the Serenity Upgrade community infrastructure to enhance local and visitor experience at a historic site. | Corryong | $25,000 |
W Tree Promotion and Progress Association Inc | W Tree Food Cooperative Improvements Build volunteer capacity with facilities equipment to reduce community food insecurity. | W Tree | $15,493 |
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 UpgradeIncreased 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 CreativityReduce 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 ServicesEnhance 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 HubReduce 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 HallUpgrade 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 programReduce 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 GroupSupport 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 ExtensionReduce 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 WindowsReduce 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 FestivalReduce 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 FestivalReduce 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 – InstallationSupport 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 AreaEnhance 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 ServicesReduce 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 IncorporatedReduce 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 CentreEnhance 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 IncorporatedIncreased 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 roomsReduce 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 outReduce 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 ChapterEnhance 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 HubEnhance community identity with the restoration and development of a theatre, gallery, and community Hub at The Rex. | Monto | $58,500 |
Windorah Development Board | Pioneers ParkStrengthen 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 MuseumReduce 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 InfrastructureReduce 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 OvalBuild 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 EscapeReduce 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 BusReduce 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 CentreReduce social isolation through the development of the Copley Green Learning Centre, a Community Kitchen Garden project. | Copley | $40,000 |
Koolunga Primary School | Outdoor Learning SpaceEnhance 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 StatementsEnhance 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 & BathroomReduce 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 AttractionEnhance 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 CladdingReduce 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 UpgradeReduce 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 HallReduce 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 StructureReduce 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.
30 communities share in small grants
Schools, sports clubs and a rural fire brigade are among the 30 not-for-profit organisations in rural and regional cotton-growing communities to receive a $5,000 boost from the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program.
This year marks the seventh round of the Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities program, which the Crop Science division of Bayer delivers in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR). This year’s program takes the total investment into cotton communities to more than one million dollars.
Local cotton growers nominated each of the not-for-profits that are receiving funds, which will help strengthen community resilience and positively impact the wellbeing of cotton-growing communities.
FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton said a consistent theme across nominations this year was a strong desire to boost morale and maintain community spirit in the face of drought.
“Local cotton-growing communities, already dealing with the stresses of sustained drought, have told us of the additional strain caused by COVID-19 restrictions. For these groups, normal fundraising activities have been turned on their head with local businesses, already struggling to survive, unable to lend their support to these community organisations,” Ms Egleton said.
“It’s wonderful to have partners like Bayer to be able to help to alleviate some of their fundraising challenges as they work hard to keep their communities connected and address critical community needs.
“There are so many not-for-profit groups and local charities doing wonderful things to make cotton-growing communities great places to live and work. This year we’ve seen many groups seeking support to develop and build organisational and community resilience. Their determination to see their communities thrive, despite the challenges they face, is inspiring,” Ms Egleton said.
Bayer Crop Science Head of Customer Marketing for Australia and New Zealand Tony May congratulated the winners and said the funding will assist in bringing people together again after being disconnected by COVID-19 restrictions.
“Many of the projects being funded will ensure cotton-growing communities can interact and connect with one another safely during the pandemic,” Mr May said.
“The grants will help build community gardens, upgrade facilities for digital learning and enhance outdoor areas to foster connections.”
Gogeldrie Rural Fire Brigade in central north Riverina NSW, was a recipient of one of the 30 Aussie Cotton Farmers Grow Communities grants. The brigade plan to use the grant to invest in suitable gym equipment to ensure the safety of its users. Currently gym users are improvising, including dragging around spare tyres tied on with rope.
On hearing they had been successful, Gogeldrie Fire Brigade Captain David Pike said it was fantastic news and would make a big difference to their small community.
“Providing appropriate gym equipment will be a nice reward for our volunteer fire fighters and motivate our farmers to come together and put their health and wellbeing first, more often,” Captain Pike said.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Jump to : NSW Communities | QLD Communities
Organisation | Project | Location | Grant |
---|---|---|---|
NEW SOUTH WALES | |||
Darling River Food & Fibre (Bourke) | |||
Bourke & District Children’s Services | Enhance community identity and connection through the installation of a culturally relevant outdoor space. | Bourke | $5,000 |
Gwydir Valley | |||
Moree & District Historical Society | Develop organisational resilience and capacity through the installation of solar panels. | Moree | $5,000 |
St Philomenas Catholic School Moree P & F | Support school engagement and enhance learning outcomes through the construction of an outdoor classroom. | Moree | $5,000 |
Lower Namoi | |||
Wee Waa Branch Country Women’s Association of NSW | Increase community inclusion through construction of a safety ramp to support access to the CWA hall. | Wee Waa | $5,000 |
Wee Waa Rotary Club Inc | Support organisational capacity through the purchase of a portable coolroom. | Wee Waa | $5,000 |
Macquarie | |||
Trangie Country Women’s Association – Country Women’s Association of NSW | Increase community inclusion through the installation of safety railing to a newly installed ramp at the CWA hall. | Trangie | $5,000 |
Warren Central School | Support life long learning through the establishment of a kitchen garden program. | Warren | $5,000 |
Warren Youth Support Group Incorporated | Facilitate positive engagement and support of young people through the installation of a permanent gazebo and outdoor furniture. | Warren | $5,000 |
Mungindi Water Users | |||
Mungindi Junior Rugby League Club Inc | Foster social wellbeing and connectivity through a kitchen upgrade. | Mungindi | $5,000 |
Southern Valleys | |||
Coleambally Central School P&C Association | Enhance educational opportunities through the construction of a covered area linking classrooms and providing a safe all-weather play area. | Coleambally | $5,000 |
Gogeldrie Rural Fire Brigade | Support individual and community health and wellbeing through the purchase of gym equipment. | Gogeldrie | $5,000 |
Griffith Public School Parents and Citizens Association | Increase educational opportunities through the purchase of readers for junior classrooms. | Griffith | $5,000 |
Hillston Billylids Inc | Enhance educational opportunities and social skill development through the purchase of digital learning resources and upgrade to play area. | Hillston | $5,000 |
Country Education Foundation of Coleambally-Darlington Point Incorporated (CEFCPD) | Support lifelong learning, education and training through the support of a grants program that enables young people to complete post secondary education. | Coleambally | $5,000 |
Murrumbidgee Shire Council | Foster community health and wellbeing through fencing of a community garden. | Coleambally | $5,000 |
Upper Namoi | |||
Carroll Community Bus Incorporated | Foster community connectivity and resilience through repairs to the community bus. | Carroll | $5,000 |
Ooranga Family Mobile Resource Unit Assoc Inc | Provide access to diverse learning environments through the replacement of the existing kitchen. | Gunnedah | $5,000 |
Spring Ridge Public School Parents and Citizens Association | Enable participation in educational opportunities through support of an annual student trip to Canberra. | Spring Ridge | $5,000 |
QUEENSLAND | |||
Central Highlands | |||
Rolleston Cricket Club Inc | Build community resilience through the purchase of a defibrillator and ice making machine. | Rolleston | $5,000 |
Darling Downs | |||
11th Light Horse Darling Downs Troop Inc. | Support the preservation of local history by upgrading facilities that house historical memorabilia. | Highfields | $5,000 |
Cecil Plains History Group | Support organisational resilience and the promotion of local history through the installation of a rainwater tank and purchase of display stands. | Cecil Plains | $5,000 |
Friends of Jondaryan Woolshed Inc | Enhance the preservation and promotion of local history through exhibit fencing to protect historical artifacts. | Jondaryan | $5,000 |
Rotary Club of Dalby Inc | Increase organisational capacity through upgrade of existing catering trailer. | Dalby | $5,000 |
Wheatlands Primary P&C Assoc | Enhance student learning opportunities and support community connection, through the provision of a protected outdoor space. | Wheatlands | $5,000 |
Dawson Valley | |||
Theodore Bowls Club Incorporated | Develop organisational resilience and capacity through the provision of a ride on mower and outdoor vac. | Theodore | $5,000 |
Dirranbandi | |||
Dirranbandi Arts Council Incorporated | Increase volunteer comfort and safety through the installation of meeting room air conditioning and security cameras to community spaces. | Dirranbandi | $5,000 |
Macintyre Valley | |||
Lundavra Primary P&C Association | Support student wellbeing and community resilience, through the purchase of a water tank to maintain school grounds. | Lundavra | $5,000 |
Macintyre Ag Alliance Inc. | Support environmental outcomes through the purchasing of weed spraying equipment. | Goondiwindi | $5,000 |
St George | |||
St George Tourism and Museum Association Inc. | Support community resillience and raise community morale through restoration of a historical building. | St George | $5,000 |
Northern Australia (North of Latitude 21.15 degrees South) | |||
Cowboys Charity Limited | Support learning opportunities for Indigenous students through fit out of boarding room accomodation. | Townsville | $5,000 |
17 November 2020: ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) today announced 26 community groups across regional Australia will share $250,000 in grants.
The ANZ Seeds of Renewal program has been running since 2003 and in 2020 the program specifically focussed on supporting groups running projects to address environmental sustainability, financial wellbeing and accessible housing initiatives in remote, rural and regional Australia.
ANZ’s technology partner Lenovo contributed more than $18,000 in IT equipment to five community groups, which was in addition to the money ANZ provided.
This year special consideration was given to projects that were in bushfire affected areas, with eight of the 26 grants awarded to groups in those regions.
ANZ General Manager Business Banking Jenefer Stewart said: “Australia’s regional, remote and rural communities have been hit particularly hard this year with the pandemic and the bushfires and we are proud of our track record in supporting them with these grants.
“The applicants show a real passion for their local communities and we are honoured to play a small part in helping these important projects come to fruition and make a positive impact to people’s lives,” Ms Stewart said.
FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton said it was inspiring to see so many groups finding innovative ways of practicing environmental sustainability in their communities and offering support to more vulnerable groups.
“The environment, housing equity and financial wellbeing, are national priority issues and are all critical to maintaining the social and economic vitality of rural Australia. It’s wonderful to partner with ANZ to provide this targeted support for local groups as they seek better ways for their communities to live,” Ms Egleton said.
Some of the locally-led projects funded this round include:
- Community Maker Space – Plastics rePurposed – Berry Springs, NT – $15,000 – Build community capability to recycle and repurpose plastic to address the environmental issues.
- Gunbower & District Development Group Inc – Gunbower Lions Park Wetlands Project – Gunbower, VIC – $12,700 – Improve the environmental sustainability of community facilities by enhancing the native vegetation and habitat.
- Pambula Beach Surf Life Saving Club Inc Environmental assessment for a healthy sustainable environment, and a fire-ready club and community – Pambula, NSW – $3,390 – Support community preparedness and environmental sustainability with review of habitat and use.
- Gunida Gunyah Aboriginal Corporation- Responsive Emergency Accommodation Service – Gunnedah, NSW – $15,000 – Provide additional crisis accommodation support that enables the organisation to support those most in need and bring them back into systems for more permanent housing.
- Sisterworks Inc – Remote Activities Project – Bendigo, VIC – $10,800 – Support the economic empowerment of migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women in regional centres by addressing isolation issues.
The full list of recipients is below:
Applicants | Project | Location | Grant |
NSW | |||
Barnabas House Crisis Care Incorporated | Barnabas Community Garden and Composting Program Build capability in program participants to improve environmental sustainability of community garden. | Griffith | $9,282 |
Pambula Beach Surf Life Saving Club Inc | Environmental assessment for a healthy sustainable environment, and a fire-ready club and community. Support community preparedness and environmental sustainability with review of habitat and use. | Pambula Beach | $3,390 |
National Indigenous Culinary Institute Limited | Muswellbrook Skills for Success Program Provide training and mentoring opportunities for indigenous youth at risk to develop skills for employment in hospitality and agriculture. | Muswellbrook | $15,000 |
Early Links Inclusion Support Service Incorporated | Teen Life Skills Develop the life skills of young people who live with a disability to improve their independent living capability. | Muswellbrook Maitland Cessnock Singleton | $11,916 |
Gunida Gunyah Aboriginal Corporation | Responsive Emergency Accommodation Service Support individual and community housing access with additional crisis accomodation options. | Gunnedah | $15,000 |
Western Murray Land Improvement Group Incorporated | Laptop resources contributing to vibrant and sustainable communities in the mid-murray region. Build community capacity for youth and seniors with 3 laptops to develop IT and Employment skills | Barham Moulamein Koraleigh Wakool | $5,640 |
Tirkandi Inaburra Cultural & Development Centre Inc | Work Readiness Support Build capability with access to 2 laptops for youth who are training for employability. | Coleambally | $3,760 |
Weddin Landcare Steering Committee Incorporated | Setting the Weddin Community Native Nursery up for Success with a Lenovo Laptop Build organisational capacity to enhance environmental sustainable practice at the Weddin Community Native Nursery | Grenfell | $1,880 |
NT | |||
The trustee for Karrkad-Kandji Trust | Mayh Recovery Project – protecting culturally important species in west Arnhem Land Improve organisational capacity to protect biodiversity by monitoring vulnerable habitats in Arnhem Land. | Kabulwarnamyo | $15,000 |
Berry Springs School Council Inc | Plastics rePurposed – Community Maker Space Build community capability to recycle and repurpose plastic to address the environmental issues. | Berry Springs | $15,000 |
QLD | |||
Balkanu Cape York Development Corporation Pty Ltd | Life Skills Development Program for Families and Women distressed with Domestic Violence (DV) and Homelessness Support individual and community financial wellbeing with lifeskills programs for vulnerable women and families. | Mossman | $11,900 |
Mossman Botanic Garden | Today’s seeds for tomorrow’s trees – Identification, collection and propagation of locally-sourced tropical, lowland rainforest trees. Build organisational capacity by developing capability in classifying and preserving native habitats. | Mossman Daintree National Park | $15,000 |
The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited | Supporting Environmental Sustainability at C&K Middlemount Develop organisational capability to better manage and use water with a new irrigation system | Middlemount | $2,248 |
Tablelands Regional Council | Tablelands Smarter with our Water Support community education on water conservation for environmental sustainability through an engagement and training program. | Atherton Malanda Ravenshoe Herberton | $15,000 |
SA | |||
LifeChanger Foundation Limited | LifeChanger Community Programs with Tree-planting (Tribe Event) Workshop Celebration Support individual and community wellbeing through engaging local mentors with youth to deliver environmental projects. | Penneshaw, Kingscote, Pengilly | $15,000 |
VIC | |||
Wangaratta Community Toy Library | Recyclable Party Time Enable sustainable environmental practice in the ommunity with the purchase of recyclable party ware for lending for childrens parties. | Wangaratta | $621 |
Barham-Koondrook Historical Society Inc | Upgrading a Community Multi-Purpose Facility Build community resilience by supporting local residents to live well in place with upgraded community facilities. | Koondrook | $5,000 |
Western District Employment Access Incorporated | Solar Power Systems supporting employment equality at WDEA Works Social Enterprise – Nigretta Disability Employment Strengthen environmental practices in disability enterprise spaces through solar power installations. | Hamilton | $15,000 |
Gunbower & District Development Group Inc | Gunbower Lions Park Wetlands Project Improve the environmental sustainability of community facilities by enhancing the native vegetation and habitat. | Gunbower | $12,700 |
YWCA Australia | Money Savvy – Empowering young women in Broken Hill through financial literacy education Build resilience of young women with a program to develop their financial literacy. | Broken Hill | $15,000 |
Country Fire Authority – Headoffice | Woodend CFA Fire Resistant Garden Education Project Build community resilience with education in fire resistant and sustainable species through a demonstration garden at the Woodend CFA Station. | Woodend | $10,000 |
Stanhope & District Development Committee Inc | Upgrading Computer and Printer Facilities Build community capacity by upgrading public IT facilities to support education and personal use. | Stanhope | $10,260 |
Cann River Community Centre Inc | IT Upgrade Build community capacity with public access to 2 laptops for personal tasks, education and employment seeking. | Cann River | $5653 |
SisterWorks Inc | Remote Activities Project Support the economic empowerment of migrant, refugee and asylum seeking women in regional centres by addressing isolation issues. | Bendigo | $10,800 |
Bendigo Family and Financial Services Inc | BFFS Student Financial Resilience Program Support the financial wellbeing of young people experiencing financial hardship through a program of emergency relief, case management and advocacy. | Bendigo | $13,850 |
WA | |||
Karajarri Traditional Lands Association (Aboriginal Corporation) RNTBC | Quality Foundations for Indigenous Enterprise in Native Botanicals – Caring for Country through Sustainable Harvest Practices Build organisational capability and implement environmentally sustainable practice to manage nature resources on country. | Broome Karajarri Country | $14,900 |
$250,000 donation to fund bushfire recovery initiatives
16 November 2020: The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Black Summer bushfire recovery funding has been bolstered thanks to a $250,000 donation from the Waislitz Foundation, in partnership with Australian Community Media (ACM). These funds will go towards supporting projects that focus on the recovery of the people and places impacted by the 2019/20 summer bushfires.

Distribution of this donation will be via the bushfire recovery stream of FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) program. This dedicated stream of funding offers grants of up to $25,000 for a broad range of projects that seek to support the recovery of affected communities. These community-led projects can include the repair and replacement of infrastructure damaged during the fires, support for the mental health and wellbeing of people affected by the bushfires, alleviation of volunteer burnout, initiatives to build economic development, and events that bring affected communities together.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said thanks to generous support of partners, like the Waislitz Foundation and ACM, the Foundation is able to fund a wide range of projects that support the different recovery journey of each fire-affected community.
“Recovery from of the 2019/20 summer bushfires is a process that has no end date and that is different for every affected place and person. We know that local leaders are therefore best placed to understand the priorities and recovery needs of their community.
“Having previously partnered with ACM through their South Coast is Calling Initiative, we are fortunate to be working with them again to support these bushfire-affected communities, as we know ACM shares our passion for supporting locally-led solutions. We are also delighted to have the opportunity to partner with the Waislitz Foundation, who also understands the value of philanthropic partnerships when it comes to helping these communities to renew and rebuild,” Ms Egleton said.
Mr Waislitz said he felt privileged to be able to help people in fire-affected communities rebuild their lives and the local connections that gave them strength.
“Every Australian couldn’t help but be touched and inspired by the stories of loss and courage we saw last summer, and I’m keen to contribute to the healing,” he said.
“Through my involvement as a co-owner of ACM, which serves local audiences and advertisers in many regions affected by the bushfires, I have developed a keen awareness of the challenges those communities face and a deep admiration for their resilience.”
“The foundation’s hope is that by supporting a range of different grassroots, community-led initiatives through the FRRR, we can help these local communities renew and strengthen for the future.”
Read Australian Community Media’s full announcement here.
Community Foundations and local organisations encouraged to apply
6 October 2020: The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) is seeking local partners in bushfire-affected communities to assist with the distribution of a special bushfire recovery stream of its long-running Back to School program.
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Thanks to generous support from donors, FRRR has more than $767,000 in $50 vouchers to distribute in areas affected by the Black Summer bushfires. These vouchers can be redeemed for school essentials, such as school uniforms, shoes, school bags and stationery, which may have been lost during the bushfires. The aim is to help students start the 2021 school year with the key items they need to be ready to learn.
To ensure support reaches people truly in need, FRRR partners with Community Foundations and locally-based community organisations that can distribute the vouchers discretely, without parents having to apply for them.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that one of the key reasons the program has been a success over the past 15 years has been the involvement of local organisations to help coordinate voucher distribution.
“Having run this program since 2005, we know that it’s critical for us to have local partners, on the ground in communities, who can coordinate the distribution of these vouchers through schools, welfare organisations and community support networks, so the funds really get to those in need,” Ms Egleton said.
“We already have many long-standing partnerships, but we are seeking to expand them so that we have a partner in each of the LGA’s impacted by the Black Summer bushfires to help coordinate voucher distribution on behalf of their Shire. We are encouraging Community Foundations and backbone community organisations in these bushfire-affected communities to apply.
“This year has been full of extreme disruptions for these students and families impacted by last summer’s bushfires. As they slowly go back to face-to-face schooling, these children will not only be re-engaging in their education, but also re-establishing social connections with friends, both of which are very important steps in the recovery process,” Ms Egleton explained.
While $50 dollars may not seem much, in FRRR’s experience, it makes a practical difference. For families in need, it can mean that they can buy the books, shoes, uniform items, and even equipment like steel-capped boots or sleeping bags, so students can participate fully in things like work experience or school camps. For students and families doing it tough, it means they can focus on their recovery, education and on building a strong support network, rather than on the stress of not having basic school items or missing out on extracurricular activities.
FRRR’s Back to School Bushfire Response stream is possible thanks to the support of a number of donors, including News Corp Australia, Australia Post, Fire Fight Australia Fund, Portland House Foundation, UNICEF Australia and Origin Energy Foundation.
Community Foundations and local not-for-profit community organisations can apply for vouchers via the FRRR website. Applications close Friday, 30 October 2020. Grants will be announced at the end of November 2020 and vouchers will be distributed in January 2021, ahead of Term 1.
FRRR’s focus is on medium to long-term recovery of disaster-affected communities. FRRR has already awarded more than $2 million in support for Black Summer bushfire recovery, with further grants to be announced in early 2021.
Since 2005, FRRR’s Back to School program has helped nearly 170,000 disadvantaged students by giving them a $50 gift voucher that can be redeemed for school necessities, such as uniforms, shoes, school bags and stationery. FRRR waives its administration fee on the Back to School program, so that every dollar donated to the program goes directly to the vouchers. The Back to School Bushfire Response stream ran earlier this year, providing nearly 4,000 students impacted by the Black Summer bushfires with a $50 voucher to help with replacing school necessities
20 community-led projects support Black Summer recovery efforts
The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), in partnership with News Corp, has awarded a further $410,159 in grants to 20 community-led projects that will support the recovery of rural communities impacted by the Black Summer bushfires.
With the incredible impact the News Corp Bushfire Fund is making on local recovery, News Corp will be adding a further donation of $500,000 to top up the Fund to $1.5 million. There have been over $750,000 in grants awarded to date.
The News Corp Bushfire Fund grants, of up to $25,000, help bring to life a range of recovery-focused initiatives that are designed to encourage people to connect, improve community spirit and increase community preparedness in the event of future bushfires.
In Round 2 of this program, grants have been awarded to local organisations in bushfire-affected communities from across Australia, including Glenreagh and Bermagui in New South Wales, Gipsy Point and Biggara in Victoria, Kingscote and Mount Torrens in South Australia and Beechmont in Queensland.
Natalie Egleton, CEO of FRRR, said that the resilience and determination of these communities to recover from the Black Summer bushfires, and thrive, is evident by the number of inspiring project ideas and applications that the Foundation has so far received.
“Recovery happens at different rates and there are different needs in each impacted community. So, it’s great to see communities like Onkaparinga, Cudlee Creek and Parndana, in South Australia, seeking out support as they move into their next phase of recovery.
“For some places, recovery means building community resilience with projects that will strengthen local identity and create tourist attractions for economic recovery. While another local collaboration will activate an environmental sustainability project and bring many people together, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable members of the community, by offering support from mental health professionals.
“For the Biggara community in Victoria, upgrading their community hall was a recovery priority. The facility is central to the lives of residents and the upgrade includes expanding it to accommodate everyone in the community in one sitting. This will ensure that there is capacity for the community to come together and connect in times of celebration and in times of crisis.
“Getting funds out to all these bushfire-affected communities is crucial, especially now with the added challenges that COVID-19 has presented in small local economies,” Ms Egleton explained.
News Corp Australia’s Community Ambassador Penny Fowler said seeing the impact that this funding has on these communities makes partnerships like the one with FRRR so rewarding.
“Through the News Corp Bushfire Recovery program we get the opportunity to see the wonderful difference that funding local groups to champion the recovery of their own community has on these towns.
“We continue to be inspired by their passion and their determination to not let the recovery process, which has been significantly impacted by COVID-19, get the better of their community,” Ms Fowler said.
Some of the 20 projects awarded include:
- Merrimans Local Aboriginal Lands Council – Bermagui, NSW – The ‘Moodji’ Regional Drought, Bushfire & Mental Health Recovery Project – $25,000 – Improve community wellbeing by enabling Grub Club and various gardening activities and events for a wide local audience to participate in and be supported by mental health professionals.
- Buxton Volunteer Fire Brigade – Buxton, VIC – RFS Memorial – Telopea Park – Buxton – $16,600 – Support community resilience with a memorial playground that will honour the brave lives lost in the fires.
- The Little Pocket Association – Beechmont, QLD – Scenic Rim – Memorial and Mural Project – $25,000 – Build community resilience with a Mural project that will engage visitors and locals in the town’s story of the bushfire.
- Royal South Australian Deaf Society – State-wide – Talking Hands for Frontline Responders – $25,000 – Build organisational capacity and deaf community resilience with skill development of frontline responders in basic Auslan.
The News Corp Bushfire Recovery Program will provide further funds to Round 2 applicants before the end of the year. FRRR encourages all grant seekers to subscribe to our eNews and social media channels to be alerted when other funding opportunities are announced, and to be inspired to develop their own community-led projects.
The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.
Jump to : NSW | VIC | QLD | SA
Organisation |
Project & Summary |
Location |
Grant |
---|---|---|---|
Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council |
Essential Fire Equipment and Safety Gear for Bega’s Local Aboriginal Cultural Burning Team Building organisational capacity with equipment for the Cultural Burning Team will increase individual safety and local preparedness. |
Merimbula |
$20,683 |
Connecting Communities Australia Ltd |
Bega Valley Bushfire Recovery Program – Restore Jewfish Beach Walkway Building community resilience, the restoration of the walkway will improve local infrastructure and enable community connection. |
Wonboyn |
$23,680 |
Country Women’s Association of NSW |
A Mobile Big Screen Theatre for Community, Cultural and Educational Events Building community connectivity and capacity the mobile big screen will enable community social activity and cultural vibrancy. |
Kandos |
$14,145 |
Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Incorporated |
Recreational Road to Recovery Improving community infrastructure and nature areas with trailers & chainsaws for dedicated working bees to clear and repair fire damage sites. |
Batemans Bay |
$25,000 |
Glenreagh HeartStart Inc |
Emergency Management and Training Room Equipment Building organisational capacity to deliver enhanced community volunteer training with new equipment to enable effective facilitation and presentation. |
Glenreagh |
$3,390 |
Merrimans Local Aboriginal Lands Council |
The ‘Moodji’ Regional Drought, Bushfire & Mental Health Recovery Project Improve community wellbeing by enabling Grub Club and various gardening activities and events for a wide local audience to participate in and be supported by mental health professionals. |
Bermagui |
$25,000 |
Tomerong School of Arts |
Making the Tomerong School of Arts Accessible to all in our Community Building resilience by upgrading infrastructure for improved community with accessible toilets to support all community members use of the facilities. |
Tomerong |
$25,000 |
Albury Wodonga Regional Foodshare |
2nd Freezer for FoodShare Building organisational capacity the purchase of a second freezer will improve operations for meeting the increased demand for FoodShare’ services. |
Wodonga |
$17,148 |
Buxton Volunteer Fire Brigade |
RFS Memorial – Telopea Park – Buxton Supporting community resilience, the memorial playground will honour the brave lives lost in the fires. |
Buxton |
$16,600 |
Biggara Recreation Reserve Committee of Management |
Biggara Valley Community Recovery Project Building community capacity with an upgrade of Biggara Hall to increase the space twofold for community use. |
Biggara |
$24,240 |
Corryong Historic Machinery Club |
Development of the Corryong Historic Machinery Club Museum Strengthening economic recovery by developing local heritage infrastructure will support tourism and build local pride. |
Corryong |
$25,000 |
Gippsland Disability Advocacy Inc |
East Gippsland Bushfire Recovery for Persons with Disabilities Building organisational capacity to facilitate volunteering, mental health and well-being supports for people with a disability in fire affected communities. |
Bairnsdale |
$22,000 |
Gipsy Point Cemetery Trust Inc |
Replacing Burnt and Damaged Boundary Fences and Upgrading Entrance Points at Gipsy Point Cemetery Trust Building community resilience, the upgrade of Gipsy Point Cemetery will ensure the space is maintained for the local community. |
Gipsy Point |
$22,004 |
The Little Pocket Association |
Scenic Rim – Memorial and Mural Project Building community resilience, the Mural project will engage visitors and locals in the town’s story of the bushfire. |
Beechmont |
$25,000 |
Advance Kingscote Progress Association |
Kangaroo Island Silo Art Project Driving tourism and fostering a sense of community pride the silo art project will welcome locals and visitors. |
Kingscote |
$25,000 |
Disaster Relief Australia |
Resilience and Capacity Building for South Australian Communities Building organisational capacity the new equipment will expand the numbers of volunteers able to be deployed during emergencies. |
Cudlee Creek |
$25,000 |
Parndana Agricultural Horticultural and Floricultural Society Inc |
Parndana Show 2020 Enabling community social connection and access by making the Parndana Show a free event for the community. |
Parndana |
$15,000 |
Royal South Australian Deaf Society Inc |
Talking Hands for Frontline Responders Building organisational capacity and deaf community resilience with skill development of frontline responders in basic Auslan. |
South Australia (statewide) |
$25,000 |
SAVEM Inc |
SAVEM Field Hospital Essential Equipment Project Building organisational capacity by preparing the mobile Field Hospital with equipment to treat animals of all species affected during bushfires. |
Onkaparinga |
$21,050 |
Spring Head Trinity Lutheran Church Inc |
Spring Head Fire Prevention Improving community preparedness by removing debris and building fences for stock that will reduce the fuel load and protect this emergency shelter site. |
Mount Torrens |
$10,219 |