GROW Myrtleford+ launched its 2025 End of Financial Year (EOFY) Challenge last Wednesday, with the aim to raise $25,000 by 30 June to support community-led projects across Myrtleford and surrounding areas, including upgrades to community facilities, environments, infrastructure and to host events.

From 12pm to 2pm, Grow Myrtleford+ committee members performed a phone-a-thon to raise money during this year's Giving Day, which will be given back to the Myrtleford community through their annual grants program.

"Our target for the end of the financial year is $25,000, which we'll use to fund community groups and projects the Myrtleford community is passionate about," Grow Myrtleford+ chair, Fiona Nichols said.

"So far, this year's totals are over $15,000, including official donations and pledges of $9000 on the day, which is just tremendous.

"If people weren't able to participate on the day, they don't have to miss out, they can still contribute for their local area until 30 June.

"We absolutely hope to surpass last years' totals.

"We're proud to be able to work with the community to support the community, to give locally and to make sure the funds raised stay local.

“GROW Myrtleford+ helps volunteers across our community deliver projects for us all; including emergency services such as CFA & SES, Landcare, the community garden and the toy library.

"Over the past three years, $67,000 in grants have been awarded across 17 projects around Myrtleford."

As a sub-fund of Into Our Hands Community Foundation, Grow Myrtleford+ works to ensure local ideas get the support they need to thrive.

All donations over $2 are tax-deductible and every dollar stays in the region to directly fund initiatives which strengthen the local community.

The group's annual grants program has previously funded native revegetation and weed control along Barwidgee Creek, supported local Myrtleford groups such as the bowls club and essential infrastructure repairs at the Ovens Valley Canine Club.

The sub-fund also delivered one of the region’s most popular community events - the Twilight Carols in the Myrtleford Piazza - which demonstrated the power of local giving to bring people together.

Grow Myrtleford+ is managed by local volunteers and supported by Into Our Hands Community Foundation.

Interested parties can make a tax-deductible donation by 30 June at: https://intoourhandsfoundation.com.au/growmyrtleford