THE Grow Myrtleford+ 2024 grants round closed last week with 12 applications received from local community organisations, totaling a combined estimated sum of approximately $50,000.

Chair of the Grow Myrtleford+ committee and deputy chair of the Into Our Hands Community Foundation, Fiona Nicholls, said this high figure points to the significant community activity in the area, with volunteers working hard to improve their organisations and their communities.

“It shows there’s a demand; if we raise it locally, we can donate it locally,” Ms Nicholls said.

“During the past year, Grow Myrtleford+ has attracted nearly $20,000 in donations which has enabled us to have a grant pool of $20,000.

“We would love to be able to raise more money to address the gap between community needs and the amount we have available.

“We really want to respect local donors and we are disappointed not to be able to support all projects.

“We wish to thank all the people who put in their time to develop their projects and to complete the applications processes.”

Grow Myrtleford+ was formed over three years ago as one of the sub-funds of Into Our Hands - a community foundation for Northeast Victoria established in Myrtleford after the bushfires in 2009 to raise funds in the community for the community.

Grow Myrtleford+ is a fundraiser which encompasses Myrtleford and surrounding areas.

Ms Nicholls said all current grant applications are being assessed by the local volunteer committee against the criteria of: projects which benefit and support the whole community, promote sustainability and how the project aligns with Grow Myrtleford+ key themes to enhancing live-ability in Myrtleford or surrounding communities.

Previous grants have seen many organisations in Myrtleford benefit from fundraising, including the SES receiving new emergency lighting, Landcare supported clearing Barwidgee Creek, the toy library improving storage solutions, the recreation reserve receiving water tanks, an Alpine Outreach Vehicle introduced for farmers to get skin cancer-checks, and the community gardens benefiting from improvements.

“It’s continued to grow,” Ms Nicholls said.

“We’re always looking for more people to join the advisory committee, or become volunteers, or simply to make donations.

“You can donate via the Grow Myrtleford+ website and donations over $2 are tax deductible.

“You can even leave a donation to Grow Myrtleford in your bequests if you prefer.”

At the end of November, Grow Myrtleford+ will announce grant recipients.

For more information, visit: www.intoourhandsfoundation.com.au