Published in The Northern Star Weekly, 5 February 2025
Photo credit: Pam Kiriakidis

Twelve community projects have been awarded grants as part of the 2024 Merrifield Community Partnerships Program.

The developers of Merrifield have been giving away grants ranging from $500, and up to $10,000 across four categories including culture, health, and connected and smart since 2017.

This year the Nepalese Community Mickleham, STEM Catalyst, Divine Performing Arts Academy and Indo Australian Welfare Club were some of the first-time recipients.

Nepalese Community Mickleham vice president Nirajan Bhatta said he was keen to introduce a Teej Festival to the Merrifield community.

“Teej Festival is one of the most significant cultural festivals for Nepalese Hindu women and we are so pleased to be able to create awareness and celebrate this festival in Merrifield,” he said

The Bush Bus, Gaayip Yagila Primary School, Mickleham Secondary College, Kidding Around Australia, and Seed Six were also successful grant applicants.

Merrifield resident Sidra Fahim was awarded grants to support four initiatives – music playgroup, community playgroup, women’s social club and Merrifield kids holiday program.

“I’m deeply committed to be giving something back to the Merrifield community and I am so thrilled to be receiving funding again this year from the Merrifield Community Partnerships Program,” she said.

“The four programs will build even stronger community connections and new bonds and the latest addition, Merrifield Kids Holiday Program, will provide an enriching and supportive environment during the school holidays.”