General News
23 May, 2026
Community grants boost local projects
COMMUNITY Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud has announced more than $57,000 in funding through its Autumn Community Grant Program, supporting a range of local projects and community initiatives. Among the successful recipients was Amphitheatre CFA Fire Brigade, which received funding towards a new “Big Fill” appliance to strengthen emergency response capability.
Captain Allan Anderson said the new vehicle would significantly improve the brigade’s ability to respond during fire emergencies.
“This generous grant allows us to meet our contribution for a new ‘Big Fill’ vehicle that will greatly help us during local emergencies,” Mr Anderson said.
“The vehicle will allow us to refill tankers on the fireground and return to the fire front rapidly, while also providing added safety for the operators.”
Mr Anderson said the appliance would benefit the wider district, not just Amphitheatre.
“It’s not just Amphitheatre brigade’s asset, it’s an asset for the whole group,” he said. “We backfill other brigades that are short on members. This will be the same, it will go where it needs to go.”
Avoca Friends of the Pool also secured funding to continue providing free family pool passes, while supporting training for local swim teachers.
President Belinda Costigan said the program helped improve both access and water safety.
“We’re proud to continue offering free pool passes for local families for another season, while also investing in training for local swim teachers,” Ms Costigan said.
“With the ongoing support of Community Bank, we’re able to build water safety skills and ensure more people in our community can stay active, connected and confident in the water.”
Funding was also awarded to Avoca Community Arts and Gardens Inc in partnership with the Avoca and District Historical Society to support the 2026 Art Show and celebrations marking 150 years of rail history in Avoca.
Secretary Marg Pilgrim said the event would celebrate an important milestone in the town’s history.
“150 years ago Avoca celebrated the coming of the rail in grand style and this October, our community will acknowledge this significant date in our town’s history while showcasing the talents of our local and regional artists in our annual art show,” Ms Pilgrim said.
“The relevant community groups will work collaboratively to host a successful celebratory event that will tell the story of our unique rail history and bring the community together.”
Additionally, Avoca’s Casablanca Movie Club also received support to replace a projector damaged during storms, allowing the club to continue local film screenings.
Avoca District Co-operative Chair Donna Wardlaw said the grants reflected the strength of grassroots community ideas.
“Every project we support reflects people stepping up to make their community stronger, more connected and more inclusive,” Ms Wardlaw said.
“It’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when local people back their local bank.”
Branch Manager Joel Condon said local customers played a direct role in funding community initiatives.
“Choosing to bank locally means choosing to support projects like these,” Mr Condon said.
“Our customers play a direct role in helping communities across Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud thrive.”
Read More: Amphitheatre, Avoca