Council strengthens ties with fresh round of Community and Arts Grants

Fifteen Western Downs community groups have received support to deliver new initiatives in their local towns, as part of Council’s ongoing program to enhance the vibrancy of our region.

Council has allocated the first round of this year’s grants program, with funding covering four areas including local events, community activations, community projects and regional arts and culture.

Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said the grants programs would give a leg-up to the region’s community groups, who deliver a vital service to the region.

“Our community groups do fantastic work right across the Western Downs, and Council is committed to supporting their initiatives and programs that help strengthen community ties,” Cr Maguire said.

“As part of this grants round, Council has supported 15 different community groups, with projects ranging from playground and clubhouse upgrades right through to annual show events.”

As part of the Community Activation Program round, Council has provided funding to Grow Glenmorgan Inc. which will use the funding to establish a not-for-profit entity to generate growth and economic activity in the town.

Grow Glenmorgan Inc. President Rebecca Bidstrup said the program would provide valuable support to the initiative.

“We are passionate about increasing economic activity in Glenmorgan and this funding will go a long way to helping us establish a way forward for our town,” Ms Bidstrup said.

Council also offers a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), which is delivered in partnership with the State Government. As part of this round, Council and the State Government funding body Arts Queensland have provided funding to the Miles Historic Village to deliver a documentary and archival project for the Miles Historical Village Museum.

Miles District Historical Society President Kylie Bourne said the project would help put the museum on the map, creating another opportunity for residents and visitors to learn more about our region’s past in a modern, interactive way.

“Memoirs and Memories – The Realisation of Miles Historical Museum project aims to deliver a variety of digital stories which explore our area’s unique history, and this funding will ensure our vision can be realised,” Mrs Bourne said.

The grants program also supports regional Christmas events such as the Dalby Christmas Street Party, Chinchilla Light Show and Tara Community Christmas.

Council is always keen to support new initiatives by community groups, and residents are encouraged to get in touch with Council if they wish to be considered for future funding rounds.

If you’d like to know about Council’s community grants and RADF programs, contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL (268 624).

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