By Bellingen Council
If your community group or organisation has an idea that will help make the Bellingen Shire a more creative, connected and sustainable place to live, highlight 2 September in your calendar as the date the next round of the Community Grants Program will officially open.
The program has two rounds each year. Funding categories include:
• Creative Placemaking Fund: Designed to ignite participation and cultural engagement, this fund supports art projects that enhance public spaces.
• Community Support Fund: This fund backs initiatives that strengthen local connections and benefit the community.
• Community Event Sponsorship Fund: Supporting local events, this fund celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Shire through a range of community gatherings.
Bellingen Shire Council Mayor, Cr. Steve Allan, explained that these grant programs give local groups, creatives and organisations the opportunity to turn ideas into action, supporting a wide range of projects that bring people together, strengthen our community and make a positive difference locally.
“Council awarded $27,076.78 of a total of $50,000 in the first round of the 2026-27 Community Grants Program supporting 12 diverse projects across the Shire,” said Mayor Allan.
“Funded initiatives include upcoming events such as the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival, the Bellingen Shire Arts Trail Weekend, the Taranta Festival 2026, and a Bellingen Theatre Troupe production.”
“Funding was also provided for equipment and resources that support local community organisations, such as new patrol radios for Urunga SLSC, new equipment for Dorrigo Highlanders Football Club and a new lighting desk for the Dorrigo Dramatic Club.”
“Creative projects included the second iteration of Brush Strokes at Urunga Art Space and a temporary sculpture project coinciding with the Taranta Festival 2026 with the community invited to engage with the sculptures and contribute to naming them.”
Due to the competitive nature and limited funding pool for the grant programs, it is highly recommended to seek advice before applying to gain a clear understanding of the expectations and how to strengthen your application. The Community Development Officer is available for assistance during business hours, Tuesday through Thursday, on 6655 7300 or council@bellingen.nsw.gov.au.
If you have an idea that can enrich our community and contribute to a creative, connected and sustainable Bellingen Shire, now is your chance to apply. For more details and to submit your application, visit: https://www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au/Community/Grants-and-Funding
Applications close Wednesday 30 September 2026, at 5pm.
