Twelve organisations across Victoria's bushfire-affected areas will share in almost $500,000 in recovery grants to repair damaged or destroyed community facilities after the 2019-20 bushfires.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes today announced the latest recipients of the Bushfire Recovery Grants for Community Facilities.
The grants support community groups who want help to build, upgrade or repair important local facilities that everyone can use.
In the North East, Tallangatta Rail Trail Advisory Group has been awarded $45,600 to upgrade the High Country Rail Trail Boggy Creek with fencing and a shelter with a hydration facility, making it safer and easier for people to enjoy the trail.
In East Gippsland, Wairewa Public Hall and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management will receive $49,967 to upgrade the hall improving the storage facilities, accessibility and resurface the outdoor space.
On the night of the 2019-20 bushfires the Wairewa Public Hall was used as a place of last resort. The hall wasn't accessible which meant people with mobility devices had to be carried into the building. The upgrade will make the hall safe and accessible, so everyone can use the space easily.
Other recipients of the Bushfire Recovery Grants for Community Facilities include Myrtleford Scout Group which will use its grant to build a new home, the Bairnsdale Tennis Club to improve its club house and facilities, a new kitchen facility at the Mansfield Football and Netball Club and fireproofing and improved water supply for the Noorinbee Public Purposes Reserve Hall.
Applications are still open for the next round of grants. Examples of projects that could be funded through the community facilities grants include upgrades to kitchens or bathrooms at local halls, repairs to fix damage, or new facilities such as playgrounds, community gardens and small pavilions.
To learn more about the grants program, to apply or to see what else you might be eligible for, visit brv.vic.gov.au, contact 1800 560 760 or visit a local Bushfire Recovery Hub.
As stated by Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes
"These projects are the hearts of country towns - the community hall, the local sports club, the rec reserve. They were a symbol of refuge during the bushfires - now with these grants, they'll be a symbol of resilience."
"Helping bushfire-affected communities to choose their own rebuilding priorities is a vital part of the recovery process. I encourage community groups to actively explore what grants and supports they're eligible for through Bushfire Recovery Victoria."
