Ten community groups have been given a welcome boost after they scooped funding through East Gippsland Shire Council’s Community Small Grants Program.

The program, which provides up to $3,000 per project, will help fund initiatives that strengthen social ties, improve safety, support local governance and enhance community well-being.

Among the recipients is the Hinnomunjie Campdraft Association, which has secured funding to upgrade its event fencing yards. This rural sporting group, known for its annual campdraft competition - which involves a horse and rider working cattle - plays a key role in bringing together families, competitors and spectators from across the region. The upgraded fencing will improve safety and operational efficiency at their events, ensuring continued success and participation in this popular local tradition.

Other successful applicants include the Bairnsdale Rowing Club, which will use its grant to purchase a portable pump and hose pressure washer to improve safety, and the Gelantipy Landcare Group, which will use its funds to set up a propagation system for native plants and shrubs, contributing to local environmental sustainability.

Mayor Cr Tom Crook noted the significance of these investments in building a better future for the region.

“We’re supporting initiatives that not only address immediate community needs but also contribute to long-term growth and social inclusion. Each of these projects has the potential to create ripple effects throughout East Gippsland, improving lives and fostering connections,” he said.

The Paynesville Neighbourhood Centre is another grant recipient, using its funds to back its Money Matters for Women initiative, which focuses on financial literacy and empowerment. And the Visionaries Group U3A in Bairnsdale will host an event for the blind and low-vision community, promoting greater accessibility and social engagement.

Cr Crook highlighted the broader impact of the program: “This isn’t just about providing financial support for individual projects - it’s about creating opportunities for the entire community to thrive.”

Although only 10 applicants were successful in this round, Council is committed to supporting those who missed out. Guidance and feedback will be offered to help these groups refine their proposals and prepare for future funding rounds.

Local businesses, community group and individuals seeking funding opportunities can check the Grant Guru portal on Council’s website.

‍

Community Small Grants Program recipients:

• Bairnsdale Rowing Club – Portable pump and hose pressure washer, $1,257

• Bairnsdale Speedway – Upgrades of safety communications radios, $2,995

• Gelantipy Landcare Group – Native plant and shrub propagation bedding system, $1,895

• Hinnomunjie Camp Draft – Upgrade of event fencing yards, $3,000

• Mountain Bike East Gippsland Inc. – Trail maintenance at Mount Taylor and Colquhoun mountain bike parks, $1,500

• Orbost Indoor Stadium Committee – Backboard repairs, $3,000

• Orbost Pony Club – Expand and diversify equestrian training opportunities, $1,500

• Paynesville Neighbourhood Centre – Money Matters for Women (financial wellbeing initiative), $1,984

• Sarah Bell (producer; auspiced by Gippsland Lakes Complete Health) – Emerging producer play development, $2,160

• Visionaries Group (auspiced by U3A Bairnsdale) – Event for the blind and low-vision community, $3,000

‍