Improving where we love to live

City of Coffs Harbour is looking to run its own version of the hit TV series The Block. 

The prize pool sits at a handsome $150,000 and will be disbursed to not-for-profit organisations who mount a compelling case to renovate or enhance existing infrastructure. 

The Community Infrastructure Renewal Grants Program for 2024/25 can provide funding of between $20,000 and $150,000 for successful applicants either based in the Coffs Harbour local government area or who service clients here. 

To be eligible for a grant, projects must be on City-owned or City-managed land. 

“It’s game on. Tell us about your project and how it would provide direct benefit to the wider community,” City of Coffs Harbour General Manager Natalia Cowley said. 

“Like The Block series, the application process will be competitive so not-for-profits will need to bring a solid case to the table.” 

Projects need to align with the City’s goals and strategic plans and must target community needs and be beneficial to the wider population. 

Projects to win support in the past include renovation and redesign of children’s outdoor spaces, replacement of fencing at tennis courts, refurbishment of amenities, replacement of flooring at a City-owned early childhood centre, and resurfacing of netball courts. 

Applications for program funding are open now here. Applications will close on Friday, June 21. 

Photo: Gumnut Cottage was the beneficiary of a Community Infrastructure Renewal Grant in 2021/22.