People with ideas to inject vibrancy into the Port's towns, hold COVID-Safe events or support the community in other ways have an opportunity to make those dreams a reality with a council grant.
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Applications for round two of Port Stephens Council's community funding program are now open for the Vibrant Spaces Fund, Community Event Development Fund and Community Support Fund.
"Since launching the funding in July last year we've contributed to some amazing initiatives including the Tomaree Museum pop-up [exhibition] and Summer on Magnus Street," Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer said of the grants which are designed to restart Port Stephens and support the community through COVID-19.
"Whether you want to hold an event, paint a mural, put on a performance, activate a space, celebrate local heritage, beautify a place or do anything that adds vibrancy and energy to our streets - we want to hear from you."
Applicants do not need to live in Port Stephens to apply. The idea behind the application must benefit the Port Stephens community.
Burbridge and Burke owner Kim Burbridge said the Vibrant Spaces grant she received last year helped her and partner Claire Burbridge, other businesses and creatives hold a series of events for the community.
"We've worked collaboratively to create a festival running through December and January in Magnus Street supporting local creatives, particularly performers who were out of work last year due to COVID-19," she said.
"We pooled our grant funding together with four other businesses to put on the event. It has been a real collaborative effort and that's one of the wonderful things about being in business at Nelson Bay."
Applications close March 14. Apply through Port Stephens Council website.
Vibrant Spaces Fund
For creative and innovative projects that improve the quality of the Port's public spaces and build community partnerships. Up to $6000 per application.
Community Support Fund
Grants to assist local not-for-profit community service providers support vulnerable communities during and in the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to $6000 available per application.
Community Event Development Fund
Aims to support the delivery of events that create social connections, improve livability and wellbeing of Port residents. Up to $3000 available per application.
