Projects awarded funding will be completed by 2018.

Successful applicants in round two attended a morning tea at council’s Forster office to be awarded with their cheques for funding towards their Stronger Communities Project. 

Cycle ways and accessible exercise station for people with disability, sheltered grandstands, kitchens for sports clubs, new Surf Lifesaving equipment and a contribution to the Manning Riverstage project are just some of the round two community projects that will commence over the next 12 months.

“The ceremony was a great opportunity to meet the project owners, to hear more about the projects that they’re so passionate about, and about how they will achieve outcomes that benefit their local community,” said Paul De Szell, council’s Director Community Spaces and Services.

Over the course of the two-year grants program, Stronger Communities Funding has delivered $1 million to 36 community projects across the entire MidCoast region.

This funding program for newly merged councils was established by the NSW Government to assist in the delivery of projects that improve community infrastructure and services.

Funding awarded in round one has already helped many community infrastructure projects get off the ground.

Boatsheds, community centres, disability access and facilities, community gardens, facility refurbishments, new Marine Rescue radio, exercise trails, new lighting and kitchens for football fields are just some of the funded projects that hardworking community groups and volunteers have completed.

The Stroud Community Lodge was allocated funds in round one to assist with set up costs for the Lodge’s new homecare services, which are now being offered to the Stroud community.

The “Give us Heart” project at North Arm Cove, another project funded from round one of the Program, aims to provide locals with healthy lifestyle options and improved access to outdoor facilities. The project will provide a shared precinct at the heart of North Arm Cove, which includes a Village Green and improvements to the Community Centre such as walking and bike tracks, wheelchair access and new play areas.

“It’s great to see these wonderful projects get off the ground with the funding they’ve received. The Stronger Communities Grant Program is really coming to life and in return making a positive difference to the MidCoast community,” said Paul.

To view the full list of the awarded Stronger Communities Grant applicants go to http://www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Community/Grants-and-Funding