The first round of funding from the Dubbo Regional Council’s (DRC) SPARC Grant Program, which supports cultural programs and projects, has been awarded to the first recipients.
Four local community organisations are benefiting from funding that will help deliver projects and programs that align to the SPARC Cultural Development Plan.
“This new grant aims to foster and develop more cultural programs in our local government area,” DRC Mayor, Councillor Mathew Dickerson said.
“It is great to see a diverse range of projects and programs successful in seeking funding that will benefit our local community and help elevate our vibrant cultural programs.”
Successful applicants for round one of the SPARC Grant Program include:
Dubbo and District Family History – received $2,000 to provide history resources to support genealogical investigations and family history services.
ORISCON Dubbo – received $1,600 to support creative practitioners to perform across four separate events over 12 months that focus on promoting understanding of our region’s diverse cultural backgrounds.
University of the Third Age (U3A) – received $4,000 to help support participation in courses from exercise and balance to musical accomplishment, singing, dancing, artistic/creative pursuits, academic subjects and community/environment awareness and sustainability.
Spare Parts, Wellington – received $2,400 to work with local schools to conduct workshops and one performance at the Vintage Festival. This will include a drumming workshop at Stuart Town Public School with students from Mumbil and Wongarbon and an introduction to Latin dance for over 55s to encourage socialisation and reduce isolation.
“Congratulations to the successful applicants of the first round of funding. The next round of funding will open in March next year and I encourage other community organisations to consider their upcoming cultural programs and events and apply for support if they meet the criteria,” Clr Dickerson said.
The SPARC Grant Program supports successful applicants in achieving the outcomes intended, which supports the SPARC Cultural Development Plan actions. Funding for the next round of the bi-annual online grant program will open in March 2024 and is facilitated through Smarty Grants.