Three Australian schools are set to enhance their outdoor environments after being named among the 2025 recipients of the annual Felton Grant, with this year’s prize pool doubling to $40,000.
Epsom Primary School in Victoria, Mossman State High School in Queensland, and St Norbert College in Western Australia were selected from hundreds of applications nationwide. The program, run by outdoor furniture manufacturer Felton Industries, supports projects that improve outdoor learning areas, encourage physical activity, and strengthen community connections.
Mr Drew Mackinnon, Marketing Manager at Felton Industries, said the program continues to highlight the importance of outdoor spaces in education settings.
“Felton Industries is incredibly proud to see how the Felton Grant has grown into a valuable initiative that empowers communities to think creatively about their outdoor environments,” he said. “Every project represents a meaningful investment in connection, wellbeing, and pride of place.”
At Epsom Primary School, the grant will fund the creation of a dedicated yarning circle made up of durable outdoor seating installed across the grounds.
“This purpose-built space will promote student wellbeing and strengthen community connection by offering an inclusive and accessible area for students, staff, families, and community members to gather, learn, and connect,” Principal Ms Julie Ladd said.
The project is being developed collaboratively by staff, students, the school’s wellbeing team, and the school’s baring djuwima leaders – young First Nations leaders who help shape culturally responsive spaces. Installation is scheduled for early 2026.
In Far North Queensland, Mossman State High School will add a covered grandstand to its recently refurbished outdoor multipurpose sports courts.
Deputy Principal Ms Mary-Anne Zahnow said the structure will provide shade for students and spectators in the region’s hot climate.
“Being in Far North Queensland, we experience hot and sunny weather conditions for a large proportion of the year, and the grandstand will also provide a fantastic viewing area for spectators when we host gala days for the Douglas Shire cluster primary schools,” she said.
At St Norbert College, the grant will support the construction of an all-weather structure for new hard courts linked to the school’s specialised basketball program.
Business Manager Neil Grime said the improved facilities would benefit students and the wider community.
“The furniture from the grant will let students, parents, and the community comfortably watch while games are being played and will improve student wellbeing and enjoyment through having improved sporting facilities available to them,” he said.
The Felton Grant program recognises schools and community organisations that demonstrate creativity and commitment to improving outdoor spaces for long-term benefit, with successful applicants receiving product credits to bring their projects to life.
Camden Rugby Union Club in New South Wales was also named a 2025 recipient, receiving support to expand spectator capacity with new portable grandstands. The upgrade will cater for local club events, school gala days, state carnivals, and regional rugby competitions, helping improve the experience for players and the wider community.
