Council Grants boost 18 community groups across the shire

Published on 17 April 2023

Community choir workshops, radio programming for people with disabilities, and funding to promote mental health initiatives are some of the local projects funded through the latest round of Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Community Grants program.

Council has awarded grants to 18 community groups who will share in almost $50,000 to deliver projects that foster connection and community across the shire.

One of the community projects that this round of funding will support is the Harcourt Valley Landcare Group, who are expanding their online presence to reach more members of the Harcourt community.

Another group to receive funding is Castlemaine Safe Space, a community-led open-door centre that welcomes people in emotional distress. They’ll be using their funding to get the word out about their services.

Some of the other groups include Sunstone InDidj’n’Us, the Solomon Islander Castlemaine Community Choir who will be hosting workshops, Queer Book Club, who will be establishing their club and reaching out to the local LGBTIQA+ community, and Maldon Athenaeum Library, who will be developing a welcoming space for their residents.

This round of grants has been awarded to a number of not-for-profit organisations, local clubs and community groups.

Together they present a diverse range of projects and opportunities that focus on access and inclusion, and community outreach, all of which will benefit residents across the shire.

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Rosie Annear, said that Council is proud to be able to support local community groups.

“Our shire is incredibly supportive and community-focused, and it’s heartening to see so many groups fostering connection.

“These grants go a long way to helping new community groups get projects up and running, as well as ensuring that long-term groups continue to thrive.

“Congratulations to all our grant recipients. I’m excited to see these amazing projects come to life.”

Council offers two rounds of Community Grants every year. The next round of grants opens on Monday 17 July 2023.

Find out more about the application process, and read the full list of recipients, at this webpage.