Over 200 community-led projects in Northern Victoria have just received up to $50,000 worth of funding.
Member for Northern Victoria state Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes has announced 12 new projects to be delivered through the first round of the Tiny Towns Fund.
Funding various projects, from community halls to local sporting club upgrades, the fund aims to strengthen community connections and encourage more people to visit all corners of Victoria.
"The Tiny Towns Fund empowers small communities to thrive, ensuring projects that locals are passionate about can become a reality,“ Ms Symes said.
The program’s first round is bringing more than 200 projects to life, across the smallest regional towns – each with fewer than 5000 residents.
The successful projects celebrate the local spirit in each community, and aim to get more people to visit them.
Community, non-profit groups and councils are eligible for grants of up to $50,000 to get their community-driven projects off the ground.
Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney said the fund is about helping Victoria’s tiniest towns reach their “full potential”.
“So many community-driven projects will upgrade local facilities and encourage more visitors to Victoria’s vibrant regions,” Ms Tierney said.
The fund is part of the Labor Government’s $45 billion investment since 2014 in projects and programs that support regional and rural Victoria to be an even better place to live, work, stay and play.
The investments mean more locals have jobs close to home, more communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive, and more visitors can experience everything regions have to offer.
Key projects around the Goulburn Valley
Gargarro Botanic Garden Ltd has received $30,595 to deliver new signage for the Gargarro Botanic Gardens in Girgarre.
Invergordon Township Group Inc has received $50,000 to upgrade the playground and outdoor exercise equipment in Invergordon.
Nagambie Mechanics Institute has received $50,000 towards their Kitchen Redevelopment Project.
Nathalia Lawn Tennis Club Inc has received $50,000 towards replacing tennis court fencing.
Shepparton East Football Netball Club has received $17,500 to install a multi zone public address system.
Tatura Civic Halls Committee Inc has received $11,000 to deliver electrical works at the Civic Hall.
Violet Town Action Group Inc has received $32,000 to upgrade audiovisual facilities at the Violet Town Community Hall.
For more information head to rdv.vic.gov.au/tinytownsfund or suburbandevelopment.vic.gov.au/grants/tiny-towns-fund