PORT Macquarie-Hastings Council has allocated almost $75,000 to local organisations through its Major Events and Community Grants programs.
“These grants reflect our commitment to supporting the people and organisations who enrich our communities, promote cultural expression, and contribute to our growing local economy,” Mayor Adam Roberts said.
“By supporting both grassroots initiatives and large-scale events, we’re helping build stronger, more connected communities and showcasing the unique character of our local area to both locals and visitors.”
Designed to boost regional visitation and support long-term event sustainability, the Major Events Grant Program forms part of the 2024–2025 Operational Plan, with a total annual allocation of $40,000.
The successful recipients in Round 2 of its Major Events Grant Program are:
● Camden Haven Dragon Boat Club – 2025 Camden Haven Dragon Boat Regatta – $4,000
● Saltwater Wine – Board Club Battle – $3,000
● Mid North Coast Digital – Digital Deep Dive – $4,000
● Say Less Collective – Say Less – Music and Arts Collective – $4,000
● Koala Conservation Organisation – The Big Koala Treasure Hunt – $2,000
● Laurieton Vintage Motor Club – 2025 Show and Shine – $3,000
Council has also distributed close to $55,000 to 16 community groups through Round 2 of the Community Grants Program.
These grants support a diverse range of activities – from live music and cultural celebrations to heritage preservation and social inclusion programs.
The successful recipients are:
● Strong Spirit Aboriginal Services – Strong Spirit Men’s Program – $7,200
● Port Macquarie Rotary Sunrise – Historic Lighthouse Signage – $9,142
● Douglas Vale Historic Homestead – Acoustic Vineyard – $4,000
● St Agnes Foundation – Bringing History to Life and Light Display (Artwalk) – $2,000
● Kendall Community Centre – Kendall Music Exchange – $4,184
● St Thomas Anglican Church – Light Display (Artwalk) – $2,000
● Werin Aboriginal Association – NAIDOC Week – $4,000
● Business Port Macquarie – New Year’s Fireworks – $7,000
● Hastings Landcare – Cultural Intelligence Workshops – $3,900
● Wauchope Bonny Hills SLS Club – Carols on the Beach – $2,000
● Dementia Alliance – Memories in Melodies – $2,000
● Rollands Plains Community Group – Rollands Plains Dinner Dance – $2,000
● Pappinbarra Progress Association – Pappinbarra Valley Bush Dance – $2,000
● Neami Limited – Our Place Shelter – $1,312
● Port Macquarie Historical Society – Museum After Dark – $1,571
● Parkinson’s Port Macquarie – World Parkinson’s Day – $500
To date, 37 community groups have received a total of $181,469 in the current financial year through the Community Grants Program.
Neil Black, Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Sunrise Inc, said the group’s grant will make it possible to create fresh new signs that share the history and importance of the Tacking Point Lighthouse area.
“It’s a great example of how community partnerships can make public spaces better for everyone,” Mr Black said.
Vanessa Vella from Rollands Plains Community Group Inc said their grant will help keep costs down for the group’s dinner dance.
“The grant has helped keep tickets affordable so everyone can come together for a meal, a dance, and a good old catch-up at our historic hall,” Ms Vella said.
