Manningham Council proudly hosted its first Annual Grants Celebration on Wednesday 27 August – an evening dedicated to recognising and celebrating the remarkable organisations supported through the 2025 Annual Community Grants program. 

The event brought together community groups, volunteers, and local leaders to acknowledge the vital role of not-for-profit organisations in creating a more inclusive, connected, and vibrant Manningham. 

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Diamante, said it was an honour to celebrate with the 30 grant recipients and acknowledge the efforts of the many volunteers, organisers and community members behind each project.

“A big congratulations to all our grant recipients and the people who work quietly and tirelessly in the background to strengthen our community,” Cr Diamante said. 

“There’s something really powerful about bringing people together who share the same compassion for our community in Manningham.

“This celebration marks the beginning of a new tradition for Manningham - one that not only recognises the incredible work happening in our community, but also encourages connection, collaboration and continued growth,” Cr Diamante said.  

Each year, Manningham Council is proud to provide grants that support local initiatives to enhance wellbeing, strengthen social connection, and promote active participation across Manningham. 

This year, Council awarded $314,223 in funding through its Annual Grants program, which includes four key streams of Community Development, Arts, Festivals and Events, and Healthy Ageing. 

The 2025 program highlights the diverse and meaningful ways community-led initiatives are making a difference. Some of the projects funded this year include:

• Heide Museum of Modern Art’s Yaluk Langa Learning Programs, designed in collaboration with First Nations artists and educators to deepen cultural understanding among young people through art.
• Onemda Association’s sensory wellbeing spaces, which provide calm, inclusive environments tailored to individuals with sensory processing needs.
• The Rotary Club of Manningham City’s Walk for Youth Mental Health, an initiative that brings the community together to raise awareness, reduce stigma and support young people’s mental health.

These projects are among 30 grant recipients making an impact on the lives of Manningham residents. 

View the full list of grant recipients at Council's Community Grants page.