General News
30 May, 2025
Grants support community
Over $50,000 has been provided to local organisations, and the community, through the Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud’s latest community grant round.
Fifteen local organisations have been provided much needed funding from a pool of $53,000 dollars for projects ranging from infrastructure through to mental health and local events.
The initiative is funded by the Avoca District Co-operative Limited and made possible by the Bendigo Bank branches they manage across the three towns.
As a social enterprise, the co-operative reinvests the majority of its profits back into local community projects and initiatives.
Among the Autumn rounds recipients was the Maryborough Theatre Company (MTC) whose Maryborough Community Bank Carols received $15,000 dollars — the highest figure in this funding round.
MTC treasurer and production team member for the carols Natalie Wardrop said there was a mix of emotions when they heard the good news.
“We are fortunate to have the support of our Community Bank, not just financially, but in the way they advocate for our local community,” she said.
In a financial environment that’s putting pressure on everyone Ms Wardrop was relieved the event’s future was secured for the next three years.
“The Maryborough Community Bank Carols is an entertaining night out — singing, dancing and some Christmas magic. But we also strongly believe that the Carols supply our community with a sense of togetherness at Christmas time,” she said.
“The Carols are a great way for our community to come together, feel connected and welcome. To celebrate as a community.”
Since 2009, the community bank said they’ve contributed $2.5 million across Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud in an effort to support and uplift the local community.