Schools and community groups within the footprint have until Monday, June 29 to submit their applications.
There are two categories of funding available under Murray Irrigation's 2026 sponsorship scheme:
• Community Sponsorship - this funding stream is for community-driven projects that promote safety, participation and wellbeing.
• Education Sponsorship - introduced in 2025, this category is for primary and secondary school activities that encourage student learning, development and wellbeing.
Last year’s sponsorship program delivered a $25,000 in funding to five community projects and three school initiatives.
Amongn them was the Deniliquin Little Athletics Club, which received funding to purchase a purpose-built discus and shot put trolley.
President Lauren Ryan said this new piece of equipment has made a huge difference for club volunteers.
"Friday nights for athletics involves a lot of work behind the scenes, with so much equipment needing to be carried out, organised and set up before the kids even arrive," she said.
"Anything that makes that job a little easier is honestly such a gift.
"The reality for small community clubs like ours is that we’ll always put our limited budget towards opportunities and equipment for the kids first, while our volunteers simply make do with whatever we have.
"That’s why we’re so incredibly grateful to Murray Irrigation for funding something that directly supports the people who give up their time each week to make athletics happen for the kids."
Berrigan Public was one of three recipients of the newly introduced education scholarships last year, and used its funding to deliver a whole of school mental health and wellbeing support program.
The school’s Parents & Citizens Association worked in collaboration with local counselling and therapy service Capable Minds and school staff, led by principal Dorothy Dore, to ensure the program was developed to specifically meet the needs of the students.
"The school valued this opportunity provided by Murray Irrigation to partner with the parent body and local external support, Capable Minds, to foster a mentally stronger community by shaping student experiences to develop more resilient young people better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of daily life," Ms Dore said.
CEO Ron McCalman said Murray Irrigation welcomes the opportunity to support innovative projects that make a positive difference both within the classroom and across the broader community.
"Whether it be sporting, health, education and wellbeing activities, or initiatives that assist the vulnerable or support the environment, we're keen to hear from you," Mr McCalman said.
Murray Irrigation’s annual sponsorship activities are made possible through the support of the company’s customers.
Further information, including application forms and selection criteria, is available at www.murrayirrigation.com.au/sponsorships.
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