Tweed Shire Council has announced the recipients of the 2025 Community Grants Program. Thirteen local groups have been awarded a total of $38,785 in funding, with recipients including an art school, local preschools, a theatre company, a fishing group and a community garden.
The funding supports local community groups and not-for-profit organisations to deliver initiatives that bring people together, promote inclusion, and strengthen community bonds, especially for those in need.
Council's Acting Director Sustainable Communities & Environment, Shannon Carruth, said the Community Grants Program is about encouraging and championing local groups to deliver programs with real social impact.
"These grants represent a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together, support each other, and make a real difference. We are so very proud to support these organisations and their dedication to creating a more inclusive and caring community, " Ms Carruth said.
"Successful organisations demonstrated how their projects would promote inclusion, build social connection, and enhance wellbeing and safer communities.
2025 Community Grant recipients
Cycle without Age Australia Incorporated – Burringbar Chapter awarded $5,000
For expansion of their free trishaw rides program for seniors and people with disabilities along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, promoting inclusion, wellbeing, and community connection through the purchase of an additional trishaw.
Murwillumbah Community Gardens awarded $5,000
For installation of an off-grid solar power system to provide lighting, tool charging and power a water pump. This upgrade will improve safety, functionality, and energy efficiency enabling gatherings, workshops and volunteer activities that promote social connection, mental wellbeing and community resilience.
Tumbulgum Fishing Club Inc awarded $4,900
For the development of a family-friendly community fishing activity on the Tweed River, promoting inclusion, mental wellbeing, and community connection. Pre-event free fishing education sessions will teach beginners, especially children, youth and new residents, the basics in a safe, supportive setting.
Tumbulgum Community Association Inc awarded $4,845
For their plan to celebrate the unveiling of the historic hall after major flood renovations, with inclusive activities, including: a movie screening, live music, dancing, children's events and refreshments. These events aim to foster social connection, celebrate local heritage, and strengthen community identity by encouraging ongoing use of the refurbished hall as a central place for culture and connection.
Murwillumbah Football Club awarded $4,270
For the purchase of essential electrical appliances to establish a canteen post significant flood damage. Revenue from the canteen will support player development, equipment, coaching, and fee reductions, enhancing the club experience for all members for sustainable operations.
Dragons Abreast Wollumbin awarded $4,960
For coordinating support meetings and preparing care packages for women undergoing cancer treatment, including invitations, neck scarves, nail care materials and local skincare products. The care packs aim to provide comfort, reduce isolation, and encourage ongoing participation and connection through the Healing Together group. A resource guide of services will also be developed.
Burringbar School of the Arts awarded $2,417
For the purchase of kitchen storage to provide a safe, hygienic storage facility for the commercial kitchen. The upgrade will improve accessibility for volunteers and patrons, ensuring a safer and more suitable storage solution.
Pottsville & District Men's Shed awarded $2,000
For coordinating a day where service providers—including government departments, community organisations, health professionals, and sports clubs—showcase available support to the Pottsville community and surrounding areas, connecting people with essential services.
Rotary Club of Banora Tweed Inc. awarded $1,000
To provide support to local primary schools by funding breakfasts and lunches for students from financially disadvantaged families.
Murwillumbah Theatre Company awarded $960
For the company to present school performances of Tilly and the Time Machine to expand community participation of a local rural school (Burringbar Public School) to cover student transportation to the productions.
Lifebridge Australia awarded $680
For their community initiative, Thrive & Shine, which offers inclusive activities for people 18+ of all abilities, to foster social connection, celebrates diversity, and promote wellbeing. The funding will contribute to the development of a suitably designed raised garden bed and garden tools for participants.
Pottsville Community Preschool $1376.50
For their Yarning Circle initiative which establish a dedicated gathering space for children, families, and community members that will support storytelling, sharing, connection, and learning in a culturally rich, safe, and welcoming environment
Wallum Community Preschool awarded $1,376.50
For a project that will embed Aboriginal perspectives into the school's learning environment through meaningful, hands-on experiences that celebrate culture, connection and Country.
"We sincerely thank everyone who took the time to apply for a Community Grant this year. Your passion, creativity and commitment to making the Tweed a stronger and more inclusive place is inspiring," Ms Carruth said.
