Central Coast Council has awarded funding to 42 local community groups, non-profit organisations and businesses through the annual Community Grants Program to support projects that positively impact the Central Coast community.

The Community Grants Program provides eligible applicants from the Community Development and Community Events and Place Activation Grant Programs with up to $20,000 in funding to deliver quality programs, events and projects within 18 months.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the grant programs build connections and celebrate our local community with programs, events and activities that align with the Community Strategic Plan and the theme of Belonging.

“Council continues to work with local community organisations to connect people and create local solutions and initiatives that enrich our neighbourhoods and create a tapestry of shared experiences and social cohesion,” Ms Smith said.

“On Tuesday 10 December an afternoon tea was held at Council’s function rooms to recognise successful grant applicants of the Community Development Grant Program and Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program and provide the opportunity for recipients to engage with each other.”

Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the Community Grant Programs assist the community to implement exciting activities that activate town centres, foreshores, lakes and open spaces for families, visitors and the wider region.

“Funding from the Community Grants Program is essential for sustainable community development, which will enhance the quality of life of our residents and benefit future generations,” Mr McKinna said.

The Community Development Grant Program received 50 applications this year, with 23 recommended for funding totalling $261,077. The Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program received 34 applications with 19 recommended for funding totalling $285,175.

Community Development Grant Program 2024-25 recipients:

1. Kincumber-Avoca Cricket Club Incorporated
2. The Skill Engineer Limited
3. The Fathers Table Incorporated
4. Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW
5. Shine for kids
6. Art-Full Women Incorporated
7. Diamond Women Limited
8. Camp Breakaway Incorporated
9. Central Coast Emergency Accommodation Services Limited
10. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, New South Wales
11. The Men's Table Limited
12. Happiness Habits Incorporated
13. Road Safety Education Limited
14. Lisarow Ourimbah Cricket Club Incorporated
15. Kincumber and District Neighbourhood Centre Incorporated
16. Toukley and Districts Art Society Incorporated
17. Woy Woy Football Club Incorporated
18. Central Coast Domestic Violence Committee
19. Narara Valley Baptist Church
20. SparkCC Incorporated
21. St Vincent de Paul Society NSW
22. Wyong District Cricket Club Incorporated
23. A Splash of Colour Swimming Incorporated

Community Events & Place Activation Grant Program 2024-25 recipients:

1. Umina Community Group Incorporated
2. Davistown Putt Putt Regatta & Wooden Boat Festival Incorporated
3. Girrakool Blues Foundation Limited
4. Words on the Waves
5. Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Incorporated
6. Fun Haus Factory Incorporated
7. Joanne Giles T/A Browse Events
8. Gosford Race Club Limited
9. Central Coast Conservatorium of Music Limited
10. Terrigal Trotters Club Incorporated
11. Wyong Golf Club Limited
12. Sport Central Coast
13. 5 Lands Walk Incorporated
14. Gosford Sister City Association Incorporated
15. Central Coast Music and Arts Incorporated
16. Wyong Race Club Limited
17. Central Coast Kids Day Out Incorporated
18. Vegan NSW Incorporated
19. Curtain Bounce Incorporated

Applications for the Community Grants Program will open again in June 2025, applicants are advised to discuss their proposal with Council’s Grants Officers prior to submission. 

For more information, search ‘Community Development Grants Program’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

To view Council meeting reports and minutes from November 2024 with detailed application assessments, search ‘Council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

ENDS