From sporting equipment and business improvements to creative workshops and community projects, Cook Shire Council is putting funding behind local ideas with two grant programs opening this September.
Applications for Council’s Community & Economic Development (CED) Grants and the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) will open on Monday 14 September 2026, with grants of up to $6,000 available through each program.
While the two programs support different types of projects, both are designed to help turn locally led ideas into practical outcomes for Cook Shire communities.
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes said the grants were about investing directly in the people and organisations who know their communities best.
“Some of the best ideas for making our communities stronger come directly from the people who live, work and volunteer here…
These grants provide practical support to help local groups, organisations, businesses and creatives deliver projects that benefit their communities.”
As seen in the image above, Cooktown Creative Arts Association sculptures funded by 2025/2026 RADF project.
“Some of the best ideas for making our communities stronger come directly from the people who live, work and volunteer here,” Cr Holmes said.
“These grants provide practical support to help local groups, organisations, businesses and creatives deliver projects that benefit their communities.
“Funding is competitive, so I encourage anyone considering an application to read the guidelines, make sure they are applying to the right program and speak with Council’s team if they need assistance.”
Practical support for community and economic projects
Council’s Community & Economic Development Grants provide up to $6,000 for eligible projects that deliver community benefit or contribute to economic development across Cook Shire.
Recent recipients demonstrate the variety of projects the program can help get off the ground.
Cooktown & District Little Athletics Association received funding for new sporting equipment, while Cooktown Creative Arts Association was supported to upgrade equipment in its pottery studio.
In Coen, Coen Mechanical received funding for tyre equipment to improve safety, training and service capacity, while Rossville & District Citizens Association was supported to undertake a feasibility study for the Rossville Museum.
Cooktown Queensland Country Women’s Association also received funding for plumbing upgrades.
Council is encouraging applicants to plan early, carefully consider the assessment criteria and submit a clear, well-supported application.
More creative ideas wanted for RADF
Artists, makers, performers, community groups and people with a creative idea are also being encouraged to take a closer look at the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
Delivered through a partnership between the Queensland Government and Cook Shire Council, RADF supports arts and cultural activity and provides opportunities to build creative skills, participation and experiences across the Shire.
Recent recipients include the Reenactment Association, which received funding for acting workshops, and visiting artist Rachel R Wright, who received support to deliver resin workshops.
Council is particularly keen to hear from people who may have an arts or creative idea but have not previously considered applying for RADF.
Projects do not have to be large or complex. Workshops, performances, creative collaborations, cultural activities and opportunities to develop local creative skills may all be eligible for support.
Not sure which grant? Talk to us first
With both programs opening at the same time, Council is encouraging prospective applicants to speak with Council officers early in the process.
A conversation before applying can help determine which funding stream is the best fit for a project, clarify eligibility and ensure applicants understand what information they will need to provide.
Applications open: Monday 14 September 2026
Applications close: COB Friday 23 October 2026
Funding available: Up to $6,000 per application
For further information or assistance, contact Cook Shire Council on 4082 0500 or email mail@cook.qld.gov.au.
The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Cook Shire Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
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