What’s happening?
SeaLink South East Queensland has launched the 2026 round of its Community Waves Sponsorship Program.
The program supports local clubs, organisations and events operating across North Stradbroke Island and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
Eligible community groups are invited to apply for funding and in-kind support, with applications closing on 8 February 2026.
The program is designed to back initiatives that strengthen community connection, participation and wellbeing across island communities.
Why it matters
The Community Waves program focuses on supporting grassroots initiatives that play a key role in island life.
These initiatives help bring people together and support social connections across geographically isolated communities.
SeaLink SEQ General Manager Ben Renwick said the program reflects SeaLink’s ongoing commitment to the regions it serves.
“Our ferries connect island communities every day, and our Community Waves is one of the ways we can support the people and organisations that help these communities thrive,” he said.
“We’re proud to support grassroots initiatives that are vital to community connection, whether that’s sporting clubs, environmental groups, cultural events or local health programs,” Mr Renwick said.
Local impact
In the most recent funding round, the Community Waves Program supported a wide range of initiatives.
These included junior sport programs, environmental conservation projects, cultural celebrations, and local health and wellbeing activities.
Support was provided to both small community organisations and larger island events that serve residents across North Stradbroke Island and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
By the numbers
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8 February 2026 is the closing date for the current funding round, giving community groups a clear timeframe to apply.
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Three Community Investment Focus Areas guide the program, ensuring funding aligns with island community priorities.
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More than 221 Christmas hampers were delivered to seniors on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands in 2025 through a supported initiative.
Zoom in
SeaLink SEQ’s Community Waves Sponsorship Program is guided by three Community Investment Focus Areas.
- Community Impact supports grassroots initiatives that bring people together. This includes junior sporting clubs, surf lifesaving groups, cultural festivals and community-led events that encourage participation and inclusion.
- Health and Wellbeing focuses on programs that promote healthy lifestyles and overall wellbeing. Supported initiatives may include youth activities, community meal services, active lifestyle events, and programs that support physical and mental health across all ages.
- Environment and Education supports projects that protect the natural environment and expand learning opportunities. This includes conservation efforts, sustainable tourism initiatives, and environmental education programs that build long-term resilience.
Zoom out
Previous Community Waves recipients have included grassroots organisations such as STAR Community Services and NSI Aboriginal and Islander Housing Co-operative.
Supported clubs and events have included BIMSARA, Point Lookout Surf Life Saving Club, Russell Island Bowls Club, the Stradbroke Chamber Music Festival and the Quandamooka Festival.
Catherine Williams from STAR Community Services said the support had a direct impact on island residents.
“Thanks to the support from SeaLink, in 2025 STAR Community Services’ volunteers were able to deliver more than 221 ‘Secret Santa for Seniors’ Christmas hampers to seniors living on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands who were on their own at Christmas,” she said.
“This program supports us to help reduce social isolation and lets seniors know they are not forgotten and that the community cares. We could not bring this joy without the support of SeaLink and the Redlands community,” Ms Williams said.
What to look for next?
The sponsorship program is open to eligible community groups operating on North Stradbroke Island and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
Organisations must be based in the Redlands Coast region, align with at least one Community Investment Focus Area, provide clear local benefits, and apply within the designated timeframe.
Applications close on 8 February 2026
Full details are available HERE with enquiries directed to seq.requests@sealink.com.au.
