Council’s Community Development Fund supports community groups and organisations through small grants of up to $1000, for events, activities and organisational development.

Round two funded projects include training for Bravehearts Volunteers, support for the Burning of the Vines event, purchase of playground equipment for the Margaret River playgroup, contribution towards a new mural at the Margaret River Community Kindy, and purchase of arts and crafts materials to assist the re-opening of the Margaret River CWA Hall.

Augusta-based projects include the Augusta River Festival, equipment to assist preservation of oral histories and seating at the historic Augusta Cemetery.

The local Bravehearts branch has expressed gratitude in receiving funds to improve the skills of their volunteers.

Lise Nikulinsky, BraveheartsWA State co-ordinator said Bravehearts was thrilled on behalf of all the local children they advocate for, to receive the grant to assist with their valued volunteers.

“The volunteers at BraveheartsWA are our most prized asset,” she said.

“This grant will allow us to purchase materials which will enable us to offer training and support to our small but dedicated team of community members who volunteer with Bravehearts Children’s charity in Margaret River.”

Shire Community Development co-ordinator Paul Gravett said the shire had a role to play by building the strength, capacity and sustainability of these groups.

“Our community and not for profit groups are the life blood of our area and hopefully these funds will go a small way to supporting their efforts,” Mr Gravett said.

“It was a very competitive round which shows how important access to funding is for local community groups.”

A total of 28 applications were received seeking more than $27,000 in funding with a total project value of almost $118,000.

To further assist community groups the shire Community Development Business Unit, in partnership with the WA Council for Social Services, will host two workshops in September providing tips on fund raising and being on a committee or board.

For more information on the Community Development Fund or to register for the workshops contact Mr Gravett on 9780 5218.