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Calling Forest Groups, Responsible Wood 2024 Community Grants!

More than $180,000 has already been allocated to Australian community groups connected to Responsible Wood-certified forests.


Fri 01 Nov 24

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The Responsible Wood Community Grants program is back, and it is looking to build on last year’s success. Closing in three weeks, the program supports local communities in developing, designing, and implementing community-based projects with local Responsible Wood-certified forest managers and certificate holders.

For 2024/25, Responsible Wood will provide grants of between $2,000 and $15,000 to community groups across Australia, with a total of $40,000 to be made available for the program.

According to Responsible Wood’s Community Grants Manager, Jason Ross, the program is “one of Australia’s most successful forest community initiatives.”

Mr Ross, who spent four years as Responsible Wood’s Marketing and Communications Officer, has been actively involved in designing the program. “When we designed the program, we had no idea how successful it would become,” he said.

Since its launch in August 2020, the Responsible Wood Community Grants Program has connected more than 55 community groups with Australian-certified forests.

“This year, we anticipate applications from Indigenous organisations, Landcare or local environmental organisations, Men’s sheds and registered bike or bushwalking clubs,” Mr Ross said.

“We are also excited to see applications from sporting clubs, art clubs, councils, education institutions, locally incorporated groups, and councils.” Last year, the program funded various projects from across Australia, with nominations received from community groups in every state or territory.

Mr Ross said the scope for the community projects is open, encouraging communities to think about their needs, consult with a Responsible Wood-certified Forest grower, develop a project idea, and apply by November 22, 2024.

“If you have a project, please contact us, and we will connect you with a Responsible Wood certified forest manager or certified holder,” Mr Ross said.

“All applicants need to be supported or sponsored by a Responsible Wood-certified forest manager or certificate holder, and we can encourage partner contributions where appropriate.”

Funding can be used on forest-based projects, including the construction or upgrade of recreational facilities, interpretive signage, forest rehabilitation or habitat improvement projects, bushfire-related commemorations, forest-based art installations and other events.

Mr Ross said the scope for the community projects is open, encouraging communities to think about their needs, consult with a Responsible Wood-certified Forest grower, develop a project idea, and apply by November 22, 2024.

Responsible Wood now has a dedicated section on its website for Community Grants, and Mr Ross urges all Responsible Wood members, certificate holders and community groups to review the website for more information.

“The website is an invaluable resource; it includes information about the application process, the key selection criteria, information about past recipients and an extensive frequently asked questions page,” he said.  

The key dates include:
  • October 10 – November 22: The formal application process opens
  • In mid December, applicants will be notified of their application status
  • Early February – formal announcement of successful recipients
  • May 31, 2025, projects are developed and completed

Author

  • Wood Central

    Wood Central is Australia’s first and only dedicated platform covering wood-based media across all digital platforms. Our vision is to develop an integrated platform for media, events, education, and products that connect, inform, and inspire the people and organisations who work in and promote forestry, timber, and fibre.

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