From supporting young families and community wellbeing to strengthening local events and sporting clubs, Edward River Council's 2026/2027 Community Grants Program will help deliver a wide range of projects that enrich life across the region.
Eleven community organisations will receive funding through the annual program following endorsement of the successful applications at the ordinary council meeting last week.
The annual program provides grants of up to $3,000 to local not-for-profit community and cultural organisations, groups and associations for projects, equipment, events, exhibitions and performances that contribute positively to the Edward River community's cultural needs and aspirations.
The 2026/2027 Community Grants Program attracted strong interest from across the community, receiving 16 applications covering a diverse range of projects and initiatives. Following assessment by a panel of four, including Councillors and staff, against the criteria outlined in Council's Community Grants Guidelines, 11 projects were approved for funding.
Mayor Ashley Hall said the breadth and quality of applications highlighted the passion and commitment of local community groups across the region.
"Each year we're encouraged by the range of ideas coming forward from local community groups," Cr Hall said.
"The successful projects reflect the diverse interests and needs of our community, from wellbeing and inclusion initiatives to local events, sporting facilities and cultural activities."
"Council is proud to support these projects and the dedicated volunteers and organisations behind them."
The successful organisations and projects that will receive funding from the program are:
• Deni LALC - Milimpilyi Women's Garden Works/Food Bank Project
• Pretty Pine Recreation Reserve - Pretty Pine Father's Day Market and Expo
• Deniliquin North Public School P&C Association - Cooking Up Opportunities: Creating an Inclusive Community Kitchen
• South West Music - Music Connects Communities
• Deniliquin Rams Football Netball Club - Commercial BBQ
• Deniliquin Film Society - Deniliquin Film Society Town Hall Promotion
• Deniliquin Golf Club - Defibrillator Purchase and Installation
• Deni Rhino Cricket Club - Purchase and Installation of LED Scoreboard
• Intereach - Preschool Wellbeing and Sensory Regulation Space
• Country Women's Association - Craft Workshop Series
• Southern Riverina Community Foundation - Branded Marquee, Sign Flags, Table Covering and Promotional Resources
Chief Executive Officer Jack Bond said the grants program continues to help local organisations turn community ideas into reality.
"The Community Grants Program is about helping local organisations turn good ideas into projects that benefit the broader community," Mr Bond said.
"This year's successful applicants represent a wide cross-section of our region and we look forward to seeing these projects come to life over the coming year."
Council congratulates all successful applicants and thanks every organisation that took the time to submit an application. The high level of interest received this year demonstrates the strength, diversity and commitment of the Edward River region's community sector.
