Our Annual Community Grants program funding helps to turn local ideas into valuable projects benefiting the Bayside community.
Starting in 2026, these grants will provide up to $12,000 in one-off funding for local clubs, groups and organisations. They support them to test new ideas, address emerging needs and build stronger connections.
For many groups, these grants are a springboard, giving them the opportunity to pilot a project, prove its benefit, and gain support to keep the momentum going.
Neighbourly Ride, a community cycling program offering guided social rides for people of all ages and abilities, has partnered with Hampton Community Centre on a new initiative designed to tackle social isolation while encouraging people to get active.
Community grant funding has helped bring the successful program to Bayside.
Hampton Community Centre manager Melanie Tighe said the grants program plays an important role in helping community organisations to trial new ideas.
"Grants provide us the opportunity to test programs where we've identified a need in the community," she said.
"The grant essentially seeds the funding so we can see if the program works and then build sustainability into it over time."
Neighbourly Ride aims to create a welcoming environment for people who may feel unsure about cycling alone or navigating busy roads. The beginner-friendly rides are designed to build confidence while fostering social connections.
"In Bayside, where many residents are looking for ways to stay active and meet others, the program offers a simple but powerful way to bring people together," Melanie said.
"We're seeing increasing social isolation and loneliness, with many people coming through our doors looking for connection.
"Activities like this give people another way to meet others and feel part of something."
The program also ensures accessibility by partnering with bike recycling initiatives so participants who do not have their own bicycle can still take part.
Andrew from Neighbourly Ride said the grant had been instrumental in helping establish the program in Bayside.
"It has enabled us to put the foundations in place to run safe, welcoming community rides and support the volunteers who lead them," he said.
"The application process was straightforward and well supported, which made it accessible for a small community not-for-profit organisation like ours."
Melanie said funding support can be the catalyst that turns a good idea into a lasting program.
"Sometimes community groups see a need but don't have the resources to get something started," she said.
"This type of funding gives you the chance to try something new and see the positive impact it can have."
Applications for 2026/2027 opened on 20 April.
