Local ideas are being transformed into meaningful community programs thanks to our Annual Community Grants program funding.
From 2026 these grants will increase to provide up to $12,000 of one-off funding for local clubs, organisations and community groups to trial new initiatives, respond to emerging needs and strengthen connections across Bayside.
For many recipients, the grants act as seed funding, enabling organisations to test an idea, demonstrate its value and build momentum for the future.
At Beaumaris Soccer Club and Beaumaris Junior Soccer Club, their 2025/2026 grant will support a series of mental health workshops delivered by experts in the field, Outside the Locker Room.
The series will run during the 2026 season to help players, parents and volunteers better recognise and respond to mental health challenges.
Club Treasurer Ben said the club jumped at the opportunity to apply once they saw how well the program aligned with their community.
"We knew the work Outside the Locker Room does is really important, especially in a club environment where people are part of a team but still might not recognise if someone is struggling," he said.
With more than 800 members across junior and senior teams, the club represents a broad cross-section of the community.
Programs will be offered to parents, masters players, senior men and women, and older teenagers.
"For a community club like ours, grants like this are vital," Ben said. "They allow volunteers to bring initiatives to life that we otherwise wouldn't have the resources to run."
"The process was also quite easy, and we were able to pull the application together in a few days."
Ben encouraged other local clubs and organisations to consider applying.
"If you've got a project that will benefit your community, it's absolutely worth putting an application forward," he said.
Applications for 2026/2027 are open until Tuesday 19 May 2026.
