Grant grows community connection with Country

Council’s Biannual Community Grants program is giving our community the resources they need to sow the seeds of future success.  

Two people who are (quite literally!) helping grow a better Moonee Valley are Cultural Gardens founders Sarah and Agus. 

Working with First Nations Elders, the pair empower local communities in Moonee Valley and surrounds to plant Indigenous gardens that not only beautify the landscape but share with residents more knowledge about their Country.  

Moonee Valley was proud to support Cultural Gardens with a First Peoples Grant in 2025. We chatted with Sarah and Agus about what the grant has helped them achieve.  

What is Cultural Gardens? 

“We create Indigenous gardens complete with yarning circles, bush tucker gardens and sensory gardens,” explains Sarah, a Ngiyampaa woman.  

“But we’re not just putting a garden in. We bring in Elders and community members to talk about the plants and share cultural knowledge, so people can develop a deeper understanding of First Nations culture.” 

The organisation’s mission is simple but powerful: helping communities reconnect with Country through interactive, living spaces that inspire learning and connection. 

How did the First Peoples Grant help? 

The funding enabled Cultural Gardens to establish a stronger presence in Moonee Valley and offer free cultural activities to the community. 

“Thanks to the support of this grant, we’ve been able to approach the Moonee Valley community and offer our knowledge through free workshops, events and markets,” says Agus. 

“It’s helped us inspire people to reconnect with Country and with Traditional Owners’ culture.” 

The grant also allowed Cultural Gardens to work alongside the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation to help share knowledge about Indigenous plants and culture throughout the municipality. 

What was the grant application process like? 

As a small organisation run by just two people, Sarah says applying for funding always requires time and effort. 

However, she says Council’s support made a real difference. 

“We received good support throughout the process,” she says. 

“Council offers grant writing workshops and application support. If you seek that support and follow the guidelines, you’ll be fine.” 

Would you encourage other First Peoples groups to apply? 

“Absolutely,” says Sarah. 

“I really encourage anyone who is First Nations to seek support from Council because Moonee Valley Council is really supportive of its First Peoples community.” 

She says grants can provide valuable assistance to First Nations organisations, businesses and community groups working to create positive outcomes for their communities. 

“We know how difficult it can be for small organisations, and that support can make a huge difference.” 

Apply for a community grant 

Moonee Valley City Council’s grants program supports local organisations, groups and individuals to deliver projects that strengthen community connections, celebrate culture and create positive local impact. 

If you have an idea that could benefit the Moonee Valley community, Council offers a range of grants, application support and grant-writing workshops to help bring your project to life. 

Find out more about available grants and how to apply on Council’s Grants webpage. 

The next round of community grants are open for application from July 17.