The Highways and Byways Small Grants Program, now part of Mary MacKillop Today, continues the mission of the Missionary Sisters of Service by supporting small, community-led initiatives addressing disadvantage and exclusion, particularly in rural and remote Australia. With flexible, modest funding, the program responds to pressing local needs, enabling grassroots projects to create meaningful and lasting impact.
In 2024–25, under the theme Valuing Community Connections in an Ancient Land, the program recognised Australia’s deep First Nations heritage alongside the ongoing impacts of natural disasters and COVID-19. Across the country, 33 projects were funded to strengthen social connection, reduce isolation, build skills and support sustainable land practices.
One project, supported with a $4,000 grant in Benalla on Yorta Yorta Country in Victoria, enabled Waminda Community House to create a Bush Tucker Garden and Seasonal Story mural. Local Elders Aunty Cheryl Cooper and Aunty Carol Alliman, alongside community partners and Aboriginal children from the Anganya program, shared knowledge of traditional plants, seasons and art. The resulting mural and booklet celebrate culture, connection and community pride.
The project connected children with Elders, who passed on knowledge of traditional plants, seasons and painting, creating a meaningful and lasting legacy for participants, their families and the wider community.
A broader community mural was also developed (photo above), brought to life through the painting and handprints of people of all ages who attended the launch, with 80 community members present. The mural continues to evolve, with further contributions planned, celebrating Waminda’s community as one. As Manager Leeane shared, ‘We are nestled in a social housing area, [and] this brings a special togetherness and celebration of the community.’
Read the full Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways Small Grants Program 2024-2025 Impact Report for more inspiring stories.
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation, to support the Mary MacKillop Today Highways and Byways Small Grants Program.
Simply:
* Visit the Mary MacKillop Today donation page (www.marymackilloptoday.org.au/donate)
* Select the amount and fill in your details
* In the ‘Your message’ box, write: ‘Please direct my donation to the Highways and Byways Small Grants Program’.
Your generosity helps continue the MSS legacy of connection and service in communities across Australia.