The Community Development Grants will invest $151,000 in 19 locally-led projects across Victoria’s dairy regions.
The grants will support six projects in south-west Victoria, seven in northern Victoria and six in Gippsland.
Initiatives range from wellbeing and mentoring programs to community events, digital access, accessible facilities, food relief, local weather information and practical education for young people.
Delivered in collaboration with regional community foundations, the Community Development Grants program supports place-based projects that foster social connection, wellbeing and resilience in dairy communities.
Grants of up to $10,000 were available for initiatives promoting social interaction, enhancing wellbeing, enabling digital inclusion and improving access and mobility.
Gardiner General Manager, People and Community Development Jenny Wilson said the projects reflected the insight, commitment and practical leadership of local organisations.
“Strong communities underpin a strong dairy industry. These grants back local people and organisations to respond to the needs they see in their own communities and deliver practical projects that will make a lasting difference,” Jenny said.
“From creating more accessible places to gather, to supporting young people, improving wellbeing and helping people stay connected, every project contributes to a region where people want to live, work and invest.”
The program is delivered in collaboration with the South West Community Foundation, Gippsland Community Foundation, Border Trust and Greater Shepparton Foundation.
Northern Victorian grants include:
Country Women’s Association Kiewa Branch: An Evening with Dr Peter Brukner: Nutrition, Diabetes & Healthy Living, $5000. A community health event focused on diabetes prevention, nutrition and healthy living, combined with a shared dinner and an opportunity for social connection.
Cohuna Neighbourhood House: Cohuna Neighbourhood House Digital Access Space, $10,000. A free digital hub offering computer, internet, video conferencing and printing access to reduce digital exclusion and help rural residents connect with services and information.
Kyabram Blue Light: KyFit Gym Based Mentoring Program, $10,000. A free fitness and mentoring program for approximately 150 young people, combining physical activity with positive role modelling and life skills development.
Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre: Dairy Community Connector, $10,000. A community outreach, peer support and education initiative for people living with blindness or low vision, including people in rural and dairy communities across the Goulburn Valley.
Tatura Community House: Gardening Connections, $5000. An accessible community garden and family-friendly outdoor space designed to build skills, improve wellbeing and bring people of all ages together.
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