Council funds 16 community groups through Event Grants program

Published on 16 December 2025

Newstead Live, Castlemaine Documentary Film Festival and the Wesley Hill Market are some of the community groups to receive funding in the latest round of Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Event Grants program.

Council has awarded 16 groups with funding to deliver events across the shire that foster connection and community.

One of the funded events is CycleMania, a community-driven festival at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens that celebrates the joy of cycling in all its forms.

Another event is Live in Baringhup, a day of top-notch live music at the historic Baringhup Hall, uniting locals and visitors in a relaxed, family-inclusive atmosphere.

Other events include the Castlemaine Fringe Fantastico Variety Show, Castlemaine Farmers Market, Gather Harcourt and Taradale Mineral Springs Festival.

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Cr Toby Heydon, said that Council is delighted to continue backing community-led events through its grants program.

“It’s always a pleasure to see the creativity and passion in the applications we receive,” said Mayor Heydon.

“This year’s 16 successful events showcase an exciting mix of returning favourites and fresh ideas, each contributing something special to our shire’s vibrant events calendar.

“These events play such an important role in bringing people together. They attract visitors, strengthen local connections, and offer opportunities for residents to try something new and enjoy memorable experiences.

“Congratulations to all the recipients. I can’t wait to see these events unfold across our shire in the year ahead.”

To read the full list of funded events, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/EventGrants.

The next round of Event Grants will open in February 2026.

Image: Castlemaine Farmers Market