In regional north-east Victoria, locals have taken matters into their own hands by collectively funding various community projects and initiatives, contributing millions of dollars to the cause.

Sylvie Huigen is a recent local, having packed up her life in Melbourne and moving than 200km to the area.

“We were frequently visiting the area on weekends and spending extensively, which led us to start applying for jobs,” Huigen explained.

In Myrtleford, the foundation provided advice to help locals raise more than $20,000 through a phone-a-thon.

“All of that funding will go towards essential services like supporting the State Emergency Services in Myrtleford, maintaining the community garden, running the toy library, and contributing to their investment fund,” Huigen mentioned.

“This money will be available for use during emergencies like fires or floods, ensuring there’s a fund quietly increasing in the background that can be justly utilized when a community need arises due to a disaster.

“I think the town is really, really proud of themselves.”

Huigen noted that while the region is sometimes underappreciated, the residents, councils, and businesses have all shown significant support for the organization.

Her next step is to review the long-term needs of the region.

“Community foundations generally work best when the need comes from the community,” she said.