Benalla Rural City Council has awarded over $108,000 to 32 community groups and organisations as part of the 2024/2025 Community Grants Program, following the Council Meeting held on Wednesday 25 June 2025.
Through the Minor Community Grant Program, $54,418 was distributed to 23 community groups and organisations to support initiatives that foster healthy, vibrant and sustain communities strengthen connection, wellbeing and opportunity throughout Benalla Rural City. An additional $53,717 was allocated to nine groups via the Major Community Grant Program for projects making a broader community impact.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the Community Grants Program reflects Council’s dedication to encouraging healthy, vibrant and resilient communities.
“These grants help bring great local ideas to life – from sporting upgrades to creative projects and inclusive events,” Cr Hearn said.
“I want to thank and congratulate everyone who took the time to apply for these grants. These projects will make a real difference for people across Benalla Rural City.”
Projects funded include:
Minor Community Grant Recipients – 2025
- Astronomy Benalla Inc. received $1,359 for reflective night signage, eyepiece, gazebo
- Benalla and District Preschool Partnership (Bernard Briggs Kindergarten) received $1,959 for vegetable garden beds at Bernard Briggs Kinder
- Benalla Aviation Museum and Men’s Shed received $2,360 for Men’s Shed air conditioner replacement
- Benalla Bushrangers Cricket Club received $3,000 for facilitated junior coaching afternoons
- Benalla Bushwalking Club received $2,750 for first aid training
- Benalla District Junior Football Club received $1,000 for canteen upgrade (pie warmer)
- Benalla Gymnastics Club received $3,000 for entry improvements and cupboard removal.
- Benalla Health received $550 for the Benalla Health 2025 Masquerade Ball.
- Benalla Hockey Club received $1,520 for equipment and umpire training.
- Benalla Men’s Shed Inc. received $2,950 for computer, software, and printer upgrades.
- Benalla National and International Short Film Festival received $3,000 for Benalla Shorts 2025.
- Benalla Netball Association received $2,330 for umpire skills development.
- Benalla RSL received $2,500 for refurbishment of the war memorial and a new plaque at the cenotaph.
- Benalla Swimming Club received $2,266 for training and competition equipment, including backstroke blocks and timers.
- Benalla Theatre Company Inc. received $3,000 for the 2025 musical “9 to 5.”
- Live Art Benalla received $3,000 for an artist development program and live music performance.
- Moira Benalla Club Inc. received $3,000 for Moira House front fence replacement.
- Molyullah Recreation and Public Hall Reserve Inc. received $1,000 for outdoor tables and chairs.
- North Eastern Archers Inc. received $3,000 for new target frames and targets.
- Swanpool Bowls Club received $2,700 for kitchen and BBQ equipment.
- Swanpool Community Cinema received $2,550 for free community screenings for festivals and events.
- Tatong Anglers Group Inc. received $2,874 for upgrading the group computer, protective, and emergency equipment.
- Tatong Memorial Hall received $2,750 for hall roof vent removal.
Major Community Grant Recipients – 2025
- Benalla All Blacks Football and Netball Club Inc. received $7,000 for improved lighting and CCTV.
- Benalla Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club Inc. received $7,000 for ceiling and LED lighting upgrades.
- Benalla Rose City Band received $4,311 for revamping the music library.
- Goorambat and District Community Group received $6,128 for historical display boards.
- Goorambat and District Football and Netball Club received $7,000 for an LED court lighting upgrade.
- Lurg Hall and Recreation Reserve Committee received $5,278 for kitchen and hall security upgrades.
- Moorngag Public Hall Committee Inc. received $5,000 for outdoor seating.
- Scout Association of Australia, Vic. Branch, Benalla Scout Group received $6,500 for maintenance and equipment upgrades.
- Waminda Community House received $5,500 for a kitchen appliances upgrade.
Cr Hearn added, “We really appreciate all the hard work from our local groups, volunteers, and clubs. Because of your efforts, Benalla Rural City is a friendlier and stronger place for everyone.”
For further information, please visit www.benalla.vic.gov.au or contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 03 5762 2600.