Port funds help community organisations

North Queensland community groups, not-for-profits and schools are encouraged to apply for the Port of Townsville’s 2026 Community Fund for the chance to share in $50,000.

Now in its sixth year, the Port’s annual Community Fund has supported many projects across the region with a combined value of more than $2.55 million.

Port of Townsville Chief Executive Officer Ranee Crosby said the Community Fund started in 2021 and has grown each year with more than 60 organisations receiving funding for their projects and initiatives.

“While the Port’s operations are based in Townsville and Lucinda, our operations support communities in Hinchinbrook, the Burdekin and the North West,” Ms Crosby said.

“Last year we were able to support 13 groups and organisations, after receiving more than 30 high quality applications.

“Our successful applicants had causes and projects that align with our values of Partnerships, Opportunity, Respect and Trust along with our themes of Prosperity, Planet, Community and People.”

One of last year’s successful applicants was Ingham-based Herbert River Cricket Association (HRCA) who used funds to replace items lost after the 2025 February flooding event.

“Replacing the Wi-Fi modem/router and scoring tablets that were lost during the flooding restored the club’s ability to score matches electronically, ensuring accurate results, live updates, and smooth integration with Queensland Cricket’s online systems,” the club’s grants officer Errol Cerutti said.

“It’s enabled players, coaches, and spectators to follow live scores, strengthening engagement and improving the overall match-day experience.

“It’s ensured HRCA could continue to host fixtures, trials, and competitions for example Country Cup, CNQ U12 trials, Over 40s T20 Challenge, with professional scoring standards.

“Improved connectivity at the clubhouse, supporting communication, online registrations, and future technology needs.”

Black River Pony & Hack Club was able to purchase a new irrigator following their successful application to the Port’s fund last year.

Black River Pony & Hack Club Committee Member and Chief Instructor Chantelle Turner said the club applied to the Community Fund to replace their irrigator, as it was leaking water and suffering from wear and tear.

“Environmentally, the new irrigator will enable consistent and sustainable maintenance of our arena surface—reducing dust, erosion, and runoff into nearby waterways.” Ms Turner said.

“Over time, this helps protect local ecosystems and ensures a safer, more resilient surface for horses and riders.”

Each application is assessed by the fund’s panel that carefully considers requests with the Port’s values of Partnerships, Opportunity, Respect and Trust and our themes of Prosperity, Planet, Community and People.

For more information and to apply go to Community Fund | Port of Townsville.