The 2024/25 Community Strengthening Grants Program had a total budget of $185,000 and were offered in four streams - major up to $10,000 (two rounds per annum), quick response up to $1,000 (always open), and quick response up to $5000 (always open).
Round one was open for applications via Smarty Grants in September/October 2024.
The Yarrawonga and surrounds projects that received grant funding include:
Yarrawonga and District Cemetery Trust – Woods Road entrance works
The grant will assist in improving the appearance of the Woods Road entrance and create a sand and soil storage area for ongoing use.
The total project cost is $12,584 with a recommended grant contribution of $10,000.
“Project is required to improve safety and amenities at the cemetery,” the assessment panel comments read.
“A more thorough condition risk assessment to be provided to council with no previous CSG funding received in the past three years.”
Yarrawonga Mulwala Basketball – Rescue Ready: Empower and Equip
The grant will assist to purchase first aid kits and provide first aid training for coaches, team managers and referees.
The total project cost is $6595 with a recommended grant contribution of $4947.50.
“A project that will benefit existing and new members of the basketball association,” the assessment panel comments read.
“The club is funding 50% of the cost of the first aid kits which aligns with the guidelines.”
Other projects included in the program include improving community water safety to the Cobram Barooga Canoe Club, volunteer training and service promotion to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Australia, climate control of the work area for the Nathalia and District Men’s Shed and local history information noticeboards and signs for the Numurkah and District Historical Society.
Council received 10 applications for the first round of the 2023/24 Community Strengthening Grants Program. Nine of the applications passed the pre-eligibility stage.
Following assessment, six were recommended for funding at a total cost of $44,291.50
To date, council has currently distributed a total of $35,520.05 through the CSG program.
Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Graeme Emonson PSM said council was looking forward to seeing the outcome of the six projects.
“This grants program really does enable groups and organisations to do things they wouldn’t otherwise be able to do and that’s about community strengthening,” Mr Emonson said.
“I’m delighted to see the six projects that have been nominated are all of substantial value and will be welcomed by the community.”