Hunter Water is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Love Water Grants program, with 19 community organisations and groups awarded a share of $125,000 in funding to support water-saving and sustainability initiatives across the Lower Hunter.

Now in its seventh year, the Love Water Grants program offers one-off funding of up to $10,000 for projects focused on water conservation and efficiency, along with those that integrate education, environmental stewardship, or sustainability outcomes.

Among this year’s recipients is Belmont Wetlands State Park, which will use the funding to purchase a water cart, enabling the efficient irrigation of areas lacking a reliable water supply. The cart will support the ongoing rehabilitation and revegetation of native flora and also assist with local events.

Park Manager Clinton Smith expressed his gratitude, saying, “Belmont Wetlands State Park is an important part of the Lower Hunter community, and this funding will allow us to deliver practical water savings, as well as provide a useful water source during bushfire season. The water cart will also help support responsible access to water for our community events so we can continue to care for local flora and fauna.”

Hunter Water Executive Manager Strategy and Engagement, Emma Berry, highlighted the program’s ongoing role in strengthening community resilience and environmental awareness. “The 2025 program attracted a strong response, with 76 applications requesting $620,945 in funding from schools, early childhood centres, not-for-profits, and local councils,” Ms Berry said.

“This incredible interest shows the commitment of our local communities to protect our most valuable resource, water. These projects, from rainwater harvesting systems to educational gardens and upgraded water infrastructure, will deliver lasting benefits across the Lower Hunter.”

IMAGE | Emma Berry with Belmont Wetlands State Park staff