Community forum to support local grant writing skills

Published on 19 July 2021

Community groups wanting to understand grant application processes and improve their grant writing skills are encouraged to register for a Gannawarra Shire Council Community Grants Forum being hosted this August.

This free event, occurring on Monday, 2 August from 6.30pm at the Kerang Memorial Hall, will provide guidance on applying for grants and what assessment panels are looking for when determining successful applications.

“For many groups and organisations, obtaining grant funding is pivotal in ensuring various projects proceed,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“This forum will focus on how to craft an application, obtaining supporting information such as letters of support and quotes, guidance on completing a budget and advice on what assessors may look for when it comes to a successful application.”  

ABOVE: Ellen White, Stephen O'Donoghue and Katrina Thorne will speak at the Community Grants Forum.

Speakers on the night will include a keynote presentation from Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) grants assessor, Ellen White, community representative, Stephen O’Donoghue and Council’s Coordinator Community Partnerships, Katrina Thorne.

“Ellen is renowned across north-western Victoria for her community leadership, highlighted by her efforts as a Buloke Shire Council Councillor, chair of the North Central Local Learning and Employment Network and as a Board Member of Women’s Health Loddon Mallee,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Stephen has played a major role in obtaining grants for various projects throughout Murrabit, whilst Katrina has during her time with Council worked with numerous community groups in successfully obtaining grant funding.”

The Community Grants Forum coincides with the opening of applications for Council’s annual Community Grants Program, which will provide funding for programs, projects, events and major infrastructure projects, with submissions accepted between Monday, 2 August and Tuesday, 31 August.

“Any community group considering applying for support from Council’s Community Grants Program are encouraged to attend our Community Grants Forum and learn about how to make your application stand out,” Mr O’Reilly said.

To register to attend the Community Grants Forum, please visit www.trybooking.com/BTAAL. Please note that arrangements may change depending on COVID-19 restrictions in place at this time.