General News
14 August, 2026
Grants open to community
As another Central Goldfields winter starts to melt into Spring, locals are invited to apply for the Community Bank of Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud’s Spring Community Grant Program.
The local Bendigo Bank branch has invested more than $213,000 into local communities during the 2025/26 financial year, taking total community investment over time to almost $2.9 million.
More than 10 groups throughout the region were successful in this year’s autumn round.
One proud recipient, Belinda Costigan on behalf of Avoca Friends of the Pool, said thanks to their funding, the group was able to provide free pool passes to families for a whole season, and training for more swim teachers.
“With the ongoing support of the Community Bank, we’re able to build water safety skills and ensure more people in our community can stay active, connected and confident in the water,” she said.
There is no set maximum grant amount, so groups can apply for projects of different sizes.
Goldfields Community Connect president Ebony Miller, another recipient of this year’s Autumn grants, said one of those projects was more equipment for her group to host bigger and better events.
“A new trailer will help us bring people together by making it easier for us to transport our barbecue, tables, chairs and event equipment to community events across the region,” she said
“The direct impact is more opportunities for connection, inclusion and support within our towns. Whether it’s a family event, fundraiser, community gathering, or local initiative, this trailer will help us continue to create welcoming spaces where people can come together, build friendships, and strengthen community spirit throughout the goldfields.”
Executive officer Julie Driscoll said Spring is a blooming good time for local groups to transform their ideas into projects that benefit their community.
“We know there are groups across our region with ideas to improve their facilities, create new opportunities or meet a need in their community,” she said.
“We encourage people to talk to us before they start their application. Tell us what you’re hoping to achieve, and we can talk through whether it fits the program and what you’ll need to apply.
“A strong application doesn’t need complicated language. Just tell us clearly what you want to do, why it’s needed, who will benefit and what difference it will make.”
Applications will open Tuesday, September 1 and close Wednesday, September 30.
Full Grant Guidelines and applications are available through the Community Bank’s SmartyGrants portal.
Further details can be found at communitybankavocamaryborough.smartygrants.com.au.