2022-23 Community Grants funding supports new projects for 15 local groups

The Livingstone Shire Council and The Real Group Community Grants Scheme provides funding to community groups and sporting clubs to develop and deliver projects, programs and events which benefit our community. Council is also hugely grateful to M Cranny Investments for its support of this program as well.

The 2022-23 Round One funding has been allocated to fifteen successful applicants and was endorsed in the general council meeting held on 25 October 2022.

Mayor Andy Ireland said in September this year, community groups and individuals were invited to apply for funding to help them deliver services and activities that benefit the region and promote the importance of a connected community. 

“This year we saw a diverse range of funding applications that included upgrades to buildings and sports grounds, installation of electronic equipment, and additional items to improve efficiency in execution of their services,” said Mayor Ireland.

Councillor Pat Eastwood, Portfolio Holder of Healthy and Inclusive Community said that the total value of the fifteen approved projects is $55,000, which shows how much work our local groups, clubs and sporting organisations contribute to our community.

“These sorts of projects promote social interaction and inclusion, which is beneficial for people’s community spirit, health and wellbeing,” said Cr Eastwood.

Richard Cooely, Honorarium Business Consultant of the Cockscomb Veterans Bush Retreat Inc. said that access to funding such as the Community Grants Scheme, allows them to complete small projects which provide long term benefits to the organisation.

“This year we applied for funding to construct a concrete entrance driveway to provide a year round, all weather accessible entrance. This will reduce the need for constant repair and will reduce damage to vehicles that use the access point to the retreat,” said Mr Cooely.

“We have a very close working relationship with Council, having received community grant funding in the past and would recommend the process to other community groups in the shire.”

The Keppel Coast Athletics Club received funding to rejuvenate the sprint track section of their grass running track and further the education of three new coaches for the club, facilitated by Athletics Australia.

President Paul Keating said that the club’s membership numbers had steadily increased over the last two years, putting a strain on both the coaching and the condition of their running tracks.

“Receiving this grant ensures that we can maintain the exemplary condition of our sprint track and ensure that our members are benefitting from a high standard of coaching,” said Mr Keating.

“This sort of funding allows us to continue to provide amazing opportunities for our club athletes, such as Jett Grundy who ran at the Queensland State Titles and came away with a new state record for the 400 metre race.

“Livingstone Shire Council and The Real Group Community Grant Scheme is a great ongoing initiative, with the achieved outcomes benefitting the whole region.”

Council would like to congratulate all recipients of the 2022-23 Round One Livingstone Shire Council and The Real Group Community Grants Scheme. A complete list is below.