Beachside comp scores funding spike

“A gamechanger” is how Sunshine Coast Beach Volleyball Program Director Peter (Chico) Jones described the much-needed funding boost his club has received in the latest round of Sunshine Coast Council’s Major Grants.

The club’s new Friday Night Lights Beach Volleyball tournament at Mooloolaba Beach will be held again in the new year, helping to attract crowds and strengthen the local economy.

“This grant funding support enables us to continue our Friday Night Lights program in 2025, enhancing community engagement and promoting an active, healthy lifestyle across the region,” Chico said.  

“With Council's backing, we can make Friday nights something the community looks forward to.

“It’s not just about the sport, it’s about building a vibrant community that we’re proud to be a part of."

The $5500 grant will help the club hire essential items including seating, lights, tents, crowd control barriers, tables, chairs, PA system, security and bins.

The club is one of 112 community groups sharing in more than $615,000 which will be used to bring a variety of events, projects and programs to life.

Record-breaking grant round

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said this round of major grant funding attracted a record-breaking number of applicants.

“This latest round of funding was competitive, with 170 applications from throughout the region applying for up to $15,000 for community group projects and $30,000 for infrastructure projects,” Cr Law said.

“This was a record number of applications for a major grant round.

“We really appreciate everyone taking the time to apply and congratulate those who were successful.

“And for those groups that missed out this time, I encourage them to apply again in the future.”

Fellow Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said Council was committed to supporting the valuable contribution of our region’s community groups and their dedicated volunteers by offering a range of grants and funding opportunities.

Cr Bunnag said he looked forward to seeing what the groups achieved with their acquired funding.

“From vital infrastructure improvements to building social connections, supporting the local economy, fostering creativity and enhancing health and wellbeing, the footprints of our local not-for-profit organisations are vast,” Cr Bunnag said.  

Other community projects funded under Council’s Major Grants program include:

• Supporting People in Respite and Lifestyles Incorporated - It's Showtime: Spiral Performing Arts Festival - $7,500 (Music and audio equipment, advertising and promotion, venue hire.)
• International Dzogchen Community of Namgyalgar Incorporated - Khaita Tibetan Annual Festival - $3,000 (Venue, printing/flyers, local newspaper, MC, DJ, performer fees, workshop presenters.)
• Coolum Men’s Shed Inc - $3,141 (Purchase of a Genmitsu CNC machine to enhance members’ skills.)
• Sunshine Coast Railway Modellers Society Inc - $7,500 (Replace wheels of Loco 85.)
• Maroochydore Football Club - $25,000 (Replace existing lighting with efficient LED lighting.)
• Brisbane Astronomical Society - Maleny Observatory - $2,495 (Purchase of laser projector for stargazing nights.)
• Caloundra Family History Research Inc. - $5,000 (Replace and expand computer set up, improving research, training and storage of historical data.)

For the full list of recipients visit Council’s website and search ‘Major Grants’.