Projects benefit from 2026 Gannawarra Small Grants Program

Published on 17 July 2026

Nineteen local projects will share in close to $50,000 of funding thanks to Gannawarra Shire Council’s Small Grants Program.

Council approved the list of successful applicants at its July 2026 Council meeting, with the popular program to support various local events and community initiatives throughout the Gannawarra.

Council received 33 applications for its annual community grants program during an application period held throughout May, with more than $131,000 sought.

All applications were assessed against the published Small Grants Program guidelines as well as a weighted assessment criteria matrix, which includes elements addressing access and inclusion, project delivery, community benefit, community involvement, innovation and lasting benefits.

“Thank you to the numerous community groups that applied for funding via our popular Small Grants program,” Mayor Garner Smith said.

“The 2026 funding round attracted strong interest from community groups across the municipality, with applications reflecting a diverse range of community priorities including community events, cultural celebrations, recreation opportunities, community infrastructure improvements, youth engagement, social inclusion and community wellbeing initiatives.”

Funding has been awarded to sporting clubs, community groups, emergency services, volunteer organisations and community event organisers, supporting projects that improve local facilities, encourage participation, strengthen community connections and enhance liveability across Gannawarra.

Numerous popular community events, including the Cohuna Chilli Festival, the Kerang Lunar Festival, New Year’s Eve celebrations at Cohuna and Kerang, the Macorna Speed Shear, Celebrate Koondrook and the Kerang Lakes Annual Community Christmas Party, will also receive funding support from the 2026 Small Grants Program.

“Council thanks all groups that submitted a request for funding and looks forward to seeing the projects that have received funding come to fruition,” Mayor Smith said.

Community groups and organisations looking for funding for current and future projects are encouraged to visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/grants, which features various grant opportunities.

The recipients for the 2026 Gannawarra Small Grants Program are: