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South West Community Foundation Latest News

  • Screen Shot 2025-10-17 At 11.23.50 Am
    October 17, 2025

    Koroit & District Community Fund – Grant Round OPEN!

    The Koroit & District Community Fund is accepting Expressions of Interest for grants of up to $10,000; whether its a new arts initiative, a health & wellbeing project or something that strengthens community connection. Past funded projects include; Lifeline SW’s...

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Dec 11

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After years of dedicated service to the South West Community Foundation, we’re farewelling valued Board member Nicky Suter 💚

Nicky’s commitment to community, sharp insight, and thoughtful contributions have helped guide the Foundation’s work and impact across the region. Her presence around the table will be missed, but given her strong community involvement, we're sure to run into her soon! 

Thank you, Nicky, for your time, energy, and belief in what we do. Wishing you the very best in what’s ahead!

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Dec 9

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True community impact is never achieved alone and 2025 has proven just how powerful partnership can be.

This year, we’ve worked alongside like-minded organisations, businesses and funders to strengthen local networks, grow philanthropy, and make every dollar go further.

Some of our 2025 highlights:
🌱 @gardinerdairy Partnership – Six grassroots projects supported through our inaugural granting round.
💸 Double Donation Day with @beyondbank – Over $20,000 raised in just 48 hours, with matched donations driving community generosity.
🔧 FRRR IRCF Programs – Ongoing work in Colac, Hamilton and Portland, supporting NFPs to build capacity and confidence.
🔁 Flow-Through Granting with FRRR – Our biggest year of flexible, local giving yet.
📊 Vital Signs South West – Completed in collaboration with @deakinuniversity’s Freelancing HUB, providing real data to guide future action.

Each partnership reflects a shared belief: that communities thrive when we work together. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year so impactful.

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Dec 4

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As Annabel Cussen steps down from her role as Executive Officer, we wanted to extend our heartfelt thanks for her incredible leadership, dedication, and vision. 💛 

Over the past few years, Annabel has guided the Foundation through a transformative period - strengthening partnerships, expanding community funds, and positioning South West Community Foundation as a leader in regional philanthropy.

Her belief that communities hold the solutions to their own opportunities and challenges has anchored everything she’s done. From supporting grassroots initiatives to championing the Foundation’s new strategic direction, Annabel’s legacy is one of community-led giving and long-term impact.

While we’re sad to see her go, we know the Foundation is in a strong position thanks to her tireless work, and we wish her every success in her next chapter.
From all of us at SWCF - thank you, Annabel. 💚

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Nov 27

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It's the perfect time to plant something meaningful. 🌱 
We’re excited to spotlight our GROW Fund - a fresh initiative by South West Community Foundation that’s dedicated to supporting schools across South West Victoria to nurture opportunities and wellbeing.

This fund supports:
- Kitchen gardens bringing life skills and sustainability into the classroom
- Hands On Learning programs that engage, re‑energise and connect young minds
- Nurture Rooms and outdoor learning spaces that offer calm, safe environments for all students

These are not just programs, they’re springboards for confidence, connection and community. We’re proud to continue the legacy of our founder, Josie Black OAM, by investing in places where children can thrive.

💛 Interested in supporting or learning more? Visit our website via the link in our Bio.

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Nov 25

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After 10 incredible years of service, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Robyn Alexander as she steps down from the SWCF Board.

Robyn has been a passionate and dedicated leader, bringing a deep understanding of community through her professional experience in Early Childhood Education and her long-standing involvement in grassroots organisations. She has always championed small communities and the power of local giving.

As Chair of the Colac Community Fund, Robyn has helped grow a strong culture of giving and community connection in the Colac Otway region, and while her term on the board has officially concluded, we're so pleased she will continue to support the Foundation as Chair of the Colac Community Fund.

Robyn’s contributions have helped shape the direction of SWCF, and we are stronger because of her.
Thank you, Robyn 💚

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Nov 16

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Join a Community Foundation on the rise! 🌱

South West Community Foundation is on the lookout for a values-driven, community-minded leader to step into the role of Executive Officer.

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of regional Victoria’s most trusted community foundations into its next chapter - supporting grassroots projects, empowering regional leadership, and growing a strong culture of local giving.

As Executive Officer, you’ll work alongside a dedicated Board to deliver SWCF’s bold new strategic direction, focused on:
🔹 Strengthening community philanthropy
🔹 Growing a regional affiliate fund model
🔹 Supporting local leaders to build lasting impact

📝 Apply now: https://www.seek.com.au/job/88376141

📧 For a confidential conversation or the position description, contact Board Chair Mary Graham: chair@southwestcommunityfoundation.org | 0418 336 284
Our supporters

South West Community Foundation is proud to acknowledge our sponsors and partners.

Contact us
PO Box 478
Warrnambool VIC 3280
info@southwestcommunityfoundation.org
Connect

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land we live and work on, the lands of the Gunditjmara, Giraiwurung, Guilidjan, Gadubanud and Djabwurrung. We recognise the diverse needs of our community and we ensure our services are inclusive of all children, young people and their families including those who are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, those who identify as LGBTIQ and persons living with disability.

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  • Home
  • About
    • Our People
    • History
    • Our Funds
      • Koroit & District Fund
      • Colac Region Sub Fund
      • Donors & Named Funds
    • Partners
    • FAQs
    • Our Impact
    • Annual Reports
    • Join Us
  • Support
    • How to Donate
    • Bequests
    • Start a Sub Fund
    • Charity Partner
  • Grants
    • Previous Grants
  • Services
    • Advice & Support
    • Community Fundraising
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  • Events
  • Contact