Council announces round one Community Assistance Program recipients

Published on 30 August 2023

20 local community groups and clubs are set to benefit from Rockhampton Regional Council’s popular Community Assistance Program (CAP) with more than $52,000 granted in Round One of the program.

Mayor Tony Williams said it was great to see a range of deserving local organisations and events being supported once again by this initiative.

“Council received a variety of strong applications during this round and there are some exciting projects on the horizon thanks to the CAP funding,” Mayor Williams said.

“This vital initiative aimed at supporting local community groups will once again help not-for-profit organisations achieve their goals and carry out projects and events that benefit the entire community.

“The program has already benefited community groups and events like the Rockhampton Touch Football Red Rooster Carnival, Diwali Festival of Lights and the annual Paradise Lagoons Campdraft, which received $10,000 in the last round and drew thousands of people to the Region.”

Communities and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said a diverse range of organisations are set to benefit from this round’s funding, including sporting clubs, musical groups, cultural societies, school P & C or P & F programs, and sustainability initiatives.

“The Australian Professional Rodeo Association and Cathedral Parish of St Joseph are amongst the successful recipients, with each set to receive $10,000 towards major events and projects including the 2023 APRA National Finals Rodeo and the highly anticipated The Lights of Christmas display,” Cr Wickerson said.

“The spectacular Lights of Christmas show will return this year to display a magical light show across St Joseph's Cathedral.

“This joyous and family friendly event is an iconic part of Christmas celebrations in the Region and will be welcome news to many.

“The Lights of Christmas show will take place from 17 to 23 December 2023.”

Water and Environmental Sustainability Councillor Donna Kirkland said it was thrilling to see numerous successful applications for the Environment and Sustainability category of the Community Assistance Program.

“Over the years we have been able to support some wonderful sustainability initiatives, and it’s encouraging to be able to continue supporting projects that align with Council’s Sustainability Strategy, such as school composting projects and litter reduction campaigns,” Cr Kirkland said.

“Our community is very passionate about the environment and these CAP funds will enable groups to further their projects, organise events, and create lasting positive impacts within the local community.”

During the last financial year Council supported 44 local organisations to deliver 48 projects over two funding rounds, seeing more than $226,000 of funding support provided to community groups across the Region.

The second round of the 2023-24 Community Assistance Program will open 15 January 2024.

For more information on the program, please contact Council on 4936 8368 or click here.

The successful recipients of the first round of the 2023-24 Community Assistance Program (including 7 Development Grants) are as follows: