Community members are invited to apply for Community Heritage and Icons Grants to raise awareness and recognition of places on our National Heritage List, such as Point Nepean.
Point Nepean is one of 104 places, and the only place in the electorate, on the National Heritage List.
Recognised for its role in defining our nation's history, Point Nepean tells the story of our diverse background.
Point Nepean has a rich cultural heritage as an indigenous gathering place.
It is also the nation’s oldest quarantine station, which housed migrants following the Gold Rush in 1851. People who arrived by boat and had contracted diseases were sent to Point Nepean to be treated.
Point Nepean also has a strong military history, with guns placed at Fort Nepean in 1886 to protect Australia’s borders from invasion by foreign troops. The first shot fired by Australian forces in World War I was fired by batteries at Fort Nepean.
I encourage community organisations and individuals who want to engage with Point Nepean to consider making an application for a grant.
These grants are part of the Australian Government’s $1.4 million commitment to provide opportunities for the community to engage with and raise awareness of places recognised on Australia's National Heritage List.
Grants of between $2,500 and $10,000 are available to undertake activities that promote community engagement and raise awareness of places on Australia's National Heritage List.
I have long been a supporter of Point Nepean and its rich heritage. It is a special place on the Mornington Peninsula and it is vital that we preserve and protect this important part of our history for generations to come.
This is an opportunity for us to continue to support, enhance and celebrate Point Nepean.
Further information about the Community Heritage and Icons Grants, including the application form, is available at www.environment.gov.au/community-heritage-icons-grants Applications close March 22.