A celebration of community: Stockland Aura awards almost half a million dollars to local organisations
The Stockland Aura team was delighted to celebrate the latest recipients of its Community Grants Program at a special awards ceremony at the Aura Vision Centre. The event was a fantastic opportunity for Stockland to recognise and support the inspiring work of local community groups and the meaningful impact they’re making across the region.
Supporting local legends
This year, nearly $500,000 in funding was awarded to 21 incredible organisations committed to nurturing social connection, sustainability, health and wellbeing, and inclusion.
From community sports clubs and mental health initiatives to emergency services and food rescue programs, these grants support a wide range of community led initiatives that will enhance the lives of residents in Aura and beyond.
Among this year’s recipients are Rhythm, a charity dedicated to supporting disadvantaged individuals, and Gateway Care, Queensland’s largest food rescue organisation. Local SES groups in Caloundra and Glasshouse Mountains received funding to support their emergency response efforts, while sporting clubs such as Aura Netball and Caloundra City Soccer Club will use their grants to bring more people together through sport.
Stockland Development Director Josh Sondergeld said the grants program is about empowering local community groups, charities, and social enterprises to amplify their positive impact.
“These grants directly support the people and organisations making a real difference in our community – from emergency responders and sporting clubs to mental health services and sustainability initiatives,” Josh said.
“This has been our biggest round yet, with more than double the number of applications received compared to previous years. In total, 45 organisations requested funding, exceeding $1.2 million, demonstrating the incredible work being done across Aura and the broader Caloundra South region.”
“Since launching the Aura Community Grants Program, Stockland has provided close to $2 million in funding to local groups dedicated to improving the lives of Sunshine Coast residents,” he added.
The Aura Community Grants recipients celebrated the occasion at a special event at the Aura Vision Centre.
Creating meaningful change
Sunshine Coast Councillor Jenny Broderick, who attended the awards ceremony, said the grants help strengthen the community by enabling local organisations to expand their reach and impact.
“I am very excited to see these grants awarded today to incredibly deserving community groups,” Cr Broderick said.
“This support will help local groups provide much-needed meals, enhance sporting facilities, and strengthen emergency services — assisting those in need, bringing people together, and building strong relationships.”
For Rhythm representative Murray Boyton, the grant represents more than just financial support — it’s an opportunity to create meaningful change where it’s needed most.
“At Rhythm, we believe no one should feel invisible in their hardest moments,” Murray said. “This support from Stockland will allow us to expand our reach, serve more people, and continue building a community where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.”
With the continued growth of Aura, initiatives like the Community Grants Program play a significant role in enabling local organisations to drive positive change, helping to build a strong and connected community for years to come.
2024 Stockland Aura Community Grant Recipients:
- Free to Flourish Community Support Group
- Caloundra City Soccer Club Inc
- Caloundra State Emergency Services (SES) Support Group Inc
- Nirimba Rugby League Club Incorporated
- Kawana Park Junior Australian Football Club Inc
- Caloundra Community Centre
- Currimundi Netball Club Inc
- Wildlife Preservation Society of Qld Sunshine Coast & Hinterland
- Glasshouse Mountains SES Group
- Rhythm Initiative Limited
- Aura Netball
- Caloundra Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc
- Gateway Care Limited
- Golden Beach Community Garden
- Our Mate-Ship Limited
- Waves of Wellness Foundation Ltd
- Glasshouse Mountains Sports Club
- Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation
- Multicap Ltd Monte Lupo
- Caloundra Cricket Club Inc
- Metropolitan-Caloundra Surf Lifesaving Club Inc