Nationals Member for Benalla, Dr Bill Sykes, advises that the latest round of the $350,000 Local History Grants Program, which provides grants of up to $12,000 to community organisations, is now available.

Dr Sykes said that not-for-profit community organisations can apply for the grants to support the cost of any project that preserves, records or publishes Victorian local history.

Preference will be given to applications that demonstrate a strong involvement by their community, the sharing of local history information across multiple local communities, describe the ongoing community benefits of the project, and demonstrate efficient use of funds and innovative engagement with a community.

“Successful projects have included the identification of unmarked graves in a remote rural cemetery, the recording of oral histories, preparation and printing of local history books, web projects, training in local history skills and the recording of histories of historical sites,” Dr Sykes said.

Community organisations can apply for funding provided that applications are based in Victoria, has a legal status such as an incorporated body, cooperative or association, has an Australian Business Number (ABN) or provides written advice from the Australian Taxation Office that no withholding tax is required.

Applications close on Monday 30 November 2009, and guidelines and application forms are available online at www.prov.vic.gov.au/lhgp or by contacting Dr Sykes’ office at 2/55 Carrier Street, Benalla, phone 5762 2100.