Community Wishes Granted

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Council has approved more than $285,000 for Community Project Grants and Signature Community Event Grants in the 2026-27 budget.

The funding will support 25 projects, programs, infrastructure and equipment upgrades and events run by Noosa community groups.

In this round, 22 projects have been funded to the value of $258,466.82, leveraging a total project value of over $862,000. This demonstrates strong community investment, with every $1 provided by Council generating approximately $3.33 in community benefit.

Funding for three out-of-round signature events has also been approved to the value of $27,000 leveraging a total project value of over $95,000. This again demonstrates strong community investment, with every $1 provided by Council generating approximately $3.55 in community benefit.

Mayor Frank Wilkie said the Community Grants program was about helping local organisations support the needs of our community.

"Noosa is home to more than 300 community groups and our Community Grants program is one way we can support them in helping to build a healthy, connected community," Cr Wilkie said.

Among this year's grant recipients was the Pomona and District Community House for its weekly program supporting young people to thrive.

"Pomona & District Community House is proud to continue delivering The Social, a safe and inclusive space for young people aged 12 to 17 to connect, create and belong. Co-designed with young people, the program empowers participants to build confidence, develop social skills and strengthen their connection to community," said Pomona & District Community House Coordinator Community Development Susan Schiotz.

"By supporting young people, The Social also benefits the wider community, building social cohesion, encouraging cross-generational connection and fostering a more engaged, connected Pomona."

The Mateship Project: Men's Health in Noosa also received $7569 to establish locally-led men's mental health groups in Sunshine Beach, Boreen Point and Pomona.

"Men in Noosa, particularly in smaller communities, often face social isolation and have limited access to informal, supportive spaces. We consistently find men engage best in relaxed, peer led environments, yet these opportunities are lacking," said The Mateship Project CEO Sam Parker.

"This project creates free, local spaces for connection, helping reduce isolation, build friendships and encourage early support seeking.

"By supporting men, we also strengthen families, workplaces and the broader community. Training local Wingmen and establishing community led groups builds long term resilience, wellbeing and connection across the region."

Other organisations to receive funding in this year's round of grants includes the Noosa Men's and Women's Sheds, Cooroy Tennis Club, Noosa Lions Football Club, Cooran School of Arts, Noosa Show Society and Kin Kin Community Group.

Grants for signature community events were also awarded to the Noosa Country Show, Peregian Beach Carols and Tewantin Christmas Carnival.

"Council is very pleased to be able to invest in our community organisations and the terrific work they do," Community Connection Manager Alison Hamblin said.

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