In recognition of their commitment to preserving the rich and unique history of the East Gippsland community, Omeo Historical Society and Bidwell First Nations Clans Aboriginal Corporation have been selected as recipients of the Victorian Government's Local History Grants Program.
Omeo Historical Society will conserve Omeo court records and Bidwell First Nations Clans Aboriginal Corporation will undertake a project to protect and preserve traditional culture. Between the two projects over $20,000 will be invested into local history in East Gippsland.
The Labor State Government is continuing its support for the preservation and celebration of Victoria's local history with $423,000 to be provided for the next round of the Local History Grants Program and Victorian Community History Awards. This announcement coincides with the unveiling of the 2022/23 round of Local History Grant recipients.
Administered by Public Record Office Victoria, these programs play a crucial role in providing substantial contributions and recognition for history projects throughout the State.
The 2022-23 round of funding sees a total of 42 community groups being awarded grants, a testament to the vitality of Victoria's local history initiatives.
Other noteworthy recipients include the Melbourne Athenaeum, and the Ballarat and District Irish Association for their respective projects in heritage preservation, digital storytelling, and historical research.
The Victorian Community History Awards, a collaborative effort between Public Record Office Victoria and the Royal Historical Society of Victoria, have been a cornerstone of historical recognition since 1998.
These awards encompass a variety of categories, culminating in the prestigious Victorian Premier's History Award, which offers a grant of $5,000. The call for entries for the 2023 awards will open soon, inviting all history enthusiasts to contribute to the ongoing narrative of Victoria's past.
For further information about these initiatives, eligibility criteria, and application details, please visit prov.vic.gov.au.
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh MP
“The Local History Grants Program supports our local historians and community groups. It is terrific to see both the Omeo Historical Society and the Bidwell First Nations Clans Aboriginal Corporation receive this grant which will share our local history with generations to come.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson
“It’s important that we preserve our past and celebrate our history – it helps guide the way forward.”
“Grants and awards recognise the amazing work that local groups and historians are doing every day and we’re proud to support them.”
