Friday 12 September 2025
Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd (PBPL) has announced its support for the Quandamooka Festival 2025 as the first recipient of its newly-established Here for the Future Fund.
Port of Brisbane CEO, Neil Stephens, said the Port’s Community Grant Program has provided more than $1.1 million in funding to support local and regional organisations across the southeast corner and southern Queensland since starting in 2013.
The Quandamooka Festival celebrates the culture and arts of the Quandamooka People on Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island), with Port of Brisbane partnering with event organisers, Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC), to support performing artists. “Our grant program represents more than just financial support, it’s an important way we continue to foster meaningful partnerships with both grassroots organisations and well-established community initiatives right across our trade hinterland," said Mr Stephens.“Last year, we proudly supported 11 organisations, from the Bayside area, across Greater Brisbane, and extending west to Warwick. These grants are making a tangible difference, providing vital resources for local projects and initiatives."
Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd CEO, Neil Stephens, said the Port plays a central role in the economic and social fabric of Queensland, and the Here for the Future Fund is part of the Port’s commitment to fostering deep connections with local communities.The Port also identifies volunteer opportunities for its team, furthering its commitment to giving back to the communities it partners with.
“Our Here for the Future Fund allows us to engage and invest in initiatives like the Quandamooka Festival, that strengthen community and support prosperity,” Mr Stephens said.
“We’re encouraging eligible organisations to apply. Whether your focus is on community wellbeing, youth development, or environmental sustainability, we’re eager to support projects that create lasting impact,” said Mr Stephens.
One of last year’s worthy recipients, ChallengeDV, received grant funding to help deliver specialised Domestic and Family Violence prevention training through the “Our Club Says No to DV” program.“Cultural inclusivity and collaboration are important parts of our Vision 2060 – an ambitious roadmap to strengthen Queensland’s economic position, future proof trade and support the transition to a more sustainable and efficient port – as we design for, and with, future generations.
Challenge DV General Manager, Linda Smith, said 91% of the program participants believe their sporting team can play a vital role in preventing DV in the community, while 87% feel more confident speaking up against sexism, racism, or unfair treatment within their sporting club.
“We have a long-standing relationship working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and we are pleased to support QYAC’s multi-artform festival, as a great opportunity to experience the culture of the Quandamooka People.”The event is free, open to the public and will run from 13-14 September 2025.
“The Port of Brisbane’s Grant Program not only provided crucial funding for us to deliver our program but also connected us with multiple sporting teams in the Bayside region,” said Ms Smith.
“We’ve since been working closely with these teams to foster safer, more inclusive club environments.”
For more information on the Quandamooka Festival, visit thewebsiteOrganisations with projects or initiatives across the fields of education, community, and environment should consider the grant funding, with First Nations organisations strongly encouraged to apply.
PBPL’s Here for the Future Fund
is a five-year commitment providing $100,000 a year to support educational and community initiatives that align with the aspirations of PBPL’s recently released roadmap for the future,