Festive and Australia Day event grants now open
Fraser Coast community groups and not-for-profit organisations planning Christmas, New Year’s Eve or Australia Day events can now apply for Council grants.
Cr Michelle Govers said applications for Council’s Festive Fraser Coast Events, Australia Day Events and Small Township Festive Decorations grants were now open at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/grants, with applications closing on 9 October 2024.
“Council’s vision is to build better communities together, and through these grants, we assist local community groups and townships to come together to celebrate over the festive season and on Australia Day,” she said.
“Grants of between $500 and $2,000 per application are available for community groups to plan and host a Christmas or New Year’s Eve community event between 15 November 2024 and 1 January 2025.
“Examples of events supported last year include the Howard Community Christmas Twilight Markets, the Toogoom Christmas Fair and the Burrum Heads Carols By Candlelight, to name just a few.”
Cr Phil Truscott said grants of between $500 and $2,000 were also available for festive decorations in small towns on the Fraser Coast.
“Grants are available for community groups and organisations to buy and install festive decorations such as lighting, Christmas trees, feature decorations, signage and banners in outdoor locations,” he said.
“This grants program is open to Fraser Coast community groups in towns with a population of less than 10,000 people, which includes Bauple, Boonooroo, Brooweena, Burrum Heads, Glenwood, Gundiah, Howard, Maaroom, Poona, River Heads, Tiaro, Toogoom and Torbanlea.
“The Christmas- New Year period is a wonderful time of year, and Council encourages local community groups to make the most of the funding available to assist with projects, events and decorations to celebrate the festive season.”
Cr Govers said community groups and organisations planning events for Australia Day on Sunday 26 January 2025 could also apply for grants of between $500 and $2,000.
“Australia Day is an opportunity to come together to reflect, respect and celebrate. Australia Day is a day that reminds us of the common bond we share as Australians, connected by a desire for unity, and the promise of safety, stability and prosperity,” she said.
“Council grants have previously supported community groups to run Australia Day events in Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Poona, Burrum Heads and Glenwood, and we encourage local groups to submit their applications over the coming weeks for Australia Day 2025 events.”
Cr Truscott said nominations for Australia Day Awards 2025 were now open, with a range of different award categories to recognise outstanding individuals and organisations, including sports, arts and culture, and community groups.
“The awards are a great opportunity to recognise and honour each other’s achievements and celebrate the community members who make the Fraser Coast great,” he said.
Nominations can be filled in online at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/australia-day