PORT Stephens community groups and individuals will receive more than $136,000 for projects that boost community wellbeing as part of Council’s 2019 grants program.

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At the last Council meeting, Council approved funding assistance across its five grant programs — community, environmental, heritage, cultural and Aboriginal projects.

Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says these funds will go towards valuable community projects and services.

“It’s a bit like Christmas in July! Each year, we help to fund many deserving groups and individuals who go on to make great contributions to Port Stephens,” Mayor Palmer said.

“This year, our successful projects include an Indigenous Surf Safety Awareness program, funding to improve koala habitats and a range of community events to create a more vibrant Port Stephens.

“Our annual grants are a great way to give back to the community. Grants have a ripple effect — a small amount can get an idea off the ground, boost an ongoing initiative, attract other funding sources and have a positive impact on many people,” he added.

Soldiers Point Public School principal Simon Parson is proud to be a recipient of the Aboriginal Projects fund for the Teach us Gathang project.

“This grant will enable up to 30 students of Soldiers Point Public School to develop a greater sense of belonging and pride in their Aboriginal culture.

“Students will have the opportunity to learn about Aboriginal culture, including dreamtime, artefacts and the Gathang language.

“This is an exciting project which will be expanded in the future to every student at the school through the development of a unit of work highlighting the cultural significance of Soldiers Point,” he said.

Jeanette Antrum from Seaside Singers says her group are pleased to be Cultural Projects grant recipients this year.

“This funding will allow us to continue what we started last year in promoting Port Stephens as a cultural destination.

“The Choral Festival will attract eight choirs from the Hunter region and one international choir — the Kirara Chorus from Tatyama in Japan. It will be the core entertainment of a wider Tomaree Arts Festival over the weekend of 25 to 27 October,” Ms Antrum said.