Stockland Aura has announced the recipients of its latest Community Grants Program, awarding nearly $500,000 in funding to 21 local organisations dedicated to community connection, sustainability, health and wellbeing, and inclusion.
The grants support a diverse range of community-led initiatives that address local needs, promote social inclusion and enhance overall wellbeing.
This year’s recipients include Rhythm, a charity supporting disadvantaged individuals, and Gateway Care, Queensland’s largest food rescue organisation.
Local volunteer-based SES groups in Caloundra and Glasshouse Mountains received funding to continue their vital emergency response services, while sporting clubs such as Aura Netball and Caloundra City Soccer Club bring people together through active participation.
The recipients were celebrated today at an awards ceremony at the Aura Vision Centre, attended by representatives from Stockland, Sunshine Coast Council, and the broader Aura community.
Stockland Development Director, Josh Sondergeld, said the grants program has been designed to support local community groups, charities, and social enterprises in the Caloundra South region.
“These grants directly support the people and organisations making a real difference in our community – from emergency responders and sporting clubs to mental health services and sustainability initiatives,” Mr Sondergeld said.
“This round of grants has been our biggest yet, with a record-breaking number of applications – more than double received in previous rounds. In total, 45 organisations submitted funding requests exceeding $1.2 million, reflecting the incredible work being done across Aura and the broader Caloundra South region.”
“Since launching the Aura Community Grants Program, Stockland has provided close to $2 million in funding to local groups dedicated to improving the lives of Sunshine Coast residents.”
Sunshine Coast Councillor Jenny Broderick said the Grants Program helps enrich the region by empowering local organisations to expand their impact.
“I am very excited to see these grants awarded today to incredibly deserving community groups,” Cr Broderick said.
“This support will help local groups provide much needed meals, enhance sporting facilities and strengthen emergency services, assisting those in need, bringing people together and building strong relationship networks.”
Rhythm representative Murray Boyton said the grant represents more than just financial support — it is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference where it’s needed most.
“At Rhythm, we believe no one should feel invisible in their hardest moments,” Mr Boyton said.
“This support from Stockland will allow us to expand our reach, serve more people, and continue building a community where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.”
2024 Stockland Aura Community Grant Recipients:
Free to Flourish Community Support Group
Caloundra City Soccer Club Inc
Caloundra State Emergency Services (SES) Support Group Inc
Nirimba Rugby League Club Incorporated
Kawana Park Junior Australian Football Club Inc
Caloundra Community Centre
Currimundi Netball Club Inc
Wildlife Preservation Society of Qld Sunshine Coast & Hinterland
Glasshouse Mountains SES Group
Rhythm Initiative Limited
Aura Netball
Caloundra Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc
Gateway Care Limited
Golden Beach Community Garden
Our Mate-Ship Limited
Waves of Wellness Foundation Ltd
Glasshouse Mountains Sports Club
Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation
Multicap Ltd Monte Lupo
Caloundra Cricket Club Inc
Metropolitan-Caloundra Surf Lifesaving Club Inc
