24 April 2026
Community organisations and event organisers are invited to attend Southern Downs Regional Council’s upcoming information roadshows to learn how recent changes to Council’s Grants to Community programs can support their future funding applications for the 2026–2027 financial year.
The roadshows will provide practical guidance on updates to both the Community Grants Program and Event Sponsorship Program following the adoption of the revised Grants to Community Policy (PL CS075) on Wednesday 25 March 2026 at the Ordinary Council Meeting.
The changes introduce clearer frameworks, streamlined application processes and a more strategic approach to Council funding with a stronger focus on delivering measurable community, economic and social outcomes for the region.
Southern Down Mayor Melissa Hamilton said the roadshows are a key initiative in helping local organisations and event organisers get the most out of Council’s updated funding programs.
“We’ve made improvements to our grants and event sponsorship frameworks, and now we want to ensure potential applicants have a clear understanding of what’s changed and how to apply,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“These information sessions are about giving applicants the clarity, confidence and tools they need to apply successfully and deliver projects and events that make a real difference across the Southern Downs.”
Portfolio Councillor for Inspired Communities Cr Morwenna Harslett said the roadshows will help local organisations better understand how Council funding can support their ideas and initiatives.
“Local projects, events and creative initiatives are at the heart of what makes our region thrive,” Cr Harslett said.
“These roadshows are about empowering our community groups and event organisers with the knowledge they need to turn good ideas into successful, well supported initiatives.”
Why Attend?
The sessions will give community groups and event organisers the opportunity to:
• Learn about new grant streams and event sponsorship tiers
• Understand eligibility requirements and assessment criteria
• Navigate the SmartyGrants online application system
• Find out what support Council can provide beyond funding
• Ask questions directly of Council officers before funding rounds open
Council strongly encourages any organisation that applies for grants or event sponsorship — or is considering applying in the future — to attend.
Roadshow Dates and Locations
• Monday, 11 May 2026 – Warwick Town Hall
10:00am and 2:00pm sessions (refreshments provided)
• Tuesday, 12 May 2026 – Stanthorpe Civic Centre (Supper Room)
10:00am and 2:00pm sessions (refreshments provided)
• Wednesday, 13 May 2026 – Allora Town Hall
10:00am session (refreshments provided)
• Wednesday, 13 May 2026 – The Cedar Room, K Life
(entrance via Eucalyptus Street carpark)
1:30pm session (refreshments provided)
• Thursday, 14 May 2026 – Online (MS Teams)
6:00pm session
How to Register
To attend, please RSVP via email to grants@sdrc.qld.gov.au by close of business Tuesday 5 May 2026. Further registration details will be provided following RSVP.
Detailed guidelines for the updated Community Grants and Event Sponsorship programs will be available shortly on Council’s website. Council officers will also be available to assist organisations and event organisers in preparing future applications.
Council looks forward to working with local groups to support initiatives and events that strengthen the region’s communities, economy and identity.
Last edited date 24 Apr 2026