The State Government is backing more community-led projects in East Gippsland, with more than 200 new initiatives state-wide set to make our smallest communities even better places to live, work, stay and play.
Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh last announced 13 groups in East Gippsland would receive grants through round one of the Labor Government’s $20 million Tiny Towns Fund.
The program’s first round is bringing to life more than 180 projects in rural and regional towns, and over 20 projects in outer metropolitan towns bordering the regions, each with fewer than 5,000 residents.
The successful projects celebrate each community’s local spirit and will drive visitation to these vibrant towns.
The Orbost Exhibition Centre will receive $50,000 to retrofit their existing performing arts space to attract touring exhibitions and deliver quality big screen film events, boosting the local tourism offering.
Mallacoota Arts Council Inc will also be given $50,000 for creating sculptural screens to enhance Mallacoota’s streetscape.
Other grant recipients include East Gippsland Landcare Network, who are getting $40,622 for upgrading the community seedbank facility in Mt Taylor, and Swifts Creek Pony Club, who will receive $29,976 to build a multi-purpose horse arena.
From local hall upgrades to sports club renovations, community and non-profit groups and councils are eligible for grants of up to $50,000 to get these community-driven projects off the ground.
“East Gippsland has some of the state’s best tiny towns and I’m proud our government are backing them with the tiny towns fund,” Mr McIntosh said.
“13 community-led projects right across East Gippsland are getting the support they need to take advantage of their unique opportunities.”
PROJECTS
– Float Incorporated, $35,000
– Lake Tyers Story of Place will gather stories for publishing and sharing, with forums to be led First Nations facilitators
– East Gippsland Shire Council,$18,000 – Pony Club building recladding at Nowa Nowa
– Nowa Nowa Community Development Group, $9167 – Culture and Sculpture Wetlands Walk Rejuvenation in Nowa Nowa
– Swan Reach Recreation Reserve Management Committee, $46,020 – Installation of an undercover area and barbecue at Swan Reach Recreation Reserve
