TasPorts has awarded $100,000 in funding to eight community projects across Tasmania through its refreshed Community Grant Program.
The successful projects span water safety training for new Tasmanians, vocational pathways for young people, maritime heritage preservation, food security initiatives and celebrations of Aboriginal culture.
TasPorts CEO Allan Grey said the program reflects the organisation’s commitment to the communities connected to Tasmania’s ports.
“It’s about investing in the people, ideas and partnerships that help Tasmania’s communities thrive,” he said.
The 2026 program attracted 140 applications requesting more than $2 million in funding, more than three times the number received in previous years.
“The quality of submissions made the assessment process highly competitive, highlighting the creativity and dedication of community organisations across Tasmania,” Grey said.
This year’s program shifted from two six-monthly funding rounds to a single annual round.
The maximum grant also increased from $5,000 to $25,000.
Among the recipients, Vinnies Tasmania will receive funding to deliver hospitality training for students who will prepare meals for people experiencing food insecurity in the Burnie area.
Vinnies Community Programs Manager Chantelle French said “we hope the program will strengthen community connections and provide both immediate and long-term benefits for those in need and the young people at Parklands High School.”
Ten Days on the Island received $25,000 for Rayakana Milaythina (Song of Country), a cultural project led by Palawa and Warlpiri artist Nunami Sculthorpe-Green bringing installations to communities across Tasmania.
Ten Days on the Island CEO Vernon Guest said TasPorts support would “enable us to bring these significant cultural gatherings to communities across lutruwita/Tasmania, creating opportunities for connection, reflection and celebration.”
Other recipients include Landcare Tasmania ($25,000), Montrose Bay High School ($21,570), PCYC North ($18,000), Splash Devonport Aquatic and Leisure Centre ($4,100) and the Dover History Group ($800).
TasPorts will also support Tamar Yacht Club by waiving pilotage fees for four vessel movements needed to install two marina barges at Beauty Point.
