On Monday 23rd November, the Community Foundation announced the recipients of the 9 successful community grants, which will be distributed to the successful community groups around the local district. For the first time ever, the awards were announced in a virtual setting.
“It’s encouraging to note that despite the fact that people have not been able to meet for most of the year, that many community groups are still planning ahead and applying for community grants, which will put them in good stead for getting back into action in 2021,” said Ruth Rogan, Executive Officer of the Community Foundation.
Right: “Revitalising Ridgway” MCDI
Mirboo North Energy Hub’s grant will enable them to conduct a series of energy audits of homes, small business and community buildings to assist in making them more energy efficient leading to reduced electricity usage and cost savings. ARC Yinnar will be able to facilitate a number of subsidised family workshops in their newly renovated ceramics room and their print screening room. Mardan Mirboo North Landcare are continuing their work on building the Strzelecki Koala Habitat Corridor across South Gippsland, with a focus on strengthening fencing skills amongst their members and the local community and providing access to fencing equipment.
Right:Thorpdale Mechanic Institute’s Hall
The Community Foundation is also supporting MCDI in two areas with its exciting “Revitalizing Ridgway” project. Firstly, there is a grant to support a complete renovation of the garden bed and Community Noticeboard in front of the IGA; and secondly MCDI will receive funds to roll out community and retailer workshops. The Mirboo North Community Shed will use its grant to purchase a Torvertafel (or Magic Table); it is an interactive game for use of the elderly and their families at Japara Mirboo North Aged Care. In Thorpdale, the Mechanic’s Institute’s Hall, which also houses the Kinder, will be able to replace fencing with more durable and safe Colorbond to the back of the hall. UA3 will engage a consultant to help them create a strategic plan for their community group to identify and provide many activities to the community going forward. Mirboo North Secondary College will conduct Mental Health First Aid Training for teachers and parents, providing them with skills and resources to deal with mental health concerns as they arise.
Right: Marcdan Mirboo North Landcare group
Prior to the announcement of the grant recipients, Diana Mueller, convener of the Community Engagement and Grants Committee, spoke of the review of the Community Grants Program that has begun in 2020.
“In the 10 years that the grants have been given, it’s pleasing to note that we have awarded 101 community grants to over 70 organisations, totaling $510,000,” said Di.
“It’s most important to recognise that it’s not so much about the money, but the impact that these grants have within our community. During the past 10 years have seen local people getting really involved, applying for grants and achieving great things in our district. It’s been wonderful to witness these projects coming to life.”
The Community Foundation wishes to congratulate all who applied for this year’s community grants. ‘Remember, if your community organisation is only just getting back on track post Covid-19, you can still consider applying for a grant for a project under the Community Foundation’s “Out of Rounds” Grants Program,” concluded Ruth.
Right:Mirboo North Community Shed
