Wānaka’s Stars in Your Eyes was one of 29 community groups to receive a major funding boost from the Otago Community Trust (OCT) in its August grants round.

Events and festivals were a big theme for the funding round, with a total of $432,972 going to groups such as Wānaka’s annual performing showcase, plus Otago Polyfest, Alexandra’s Blossom Festival and Central Otago’s WoolOn events, and more.

Stars In Your Eyes, which received a grant of $5,000 from OCT, is held from September 18-21, showcasing the skills of around 35 volunteer performers.

Supported by a live band, backing singers, and dancers - all striving to achieve professional standards - the show is a testament to the power of community collaboration.

"Receiving a grant from the Otago Community Trust enables us to stage our flagship show, 'Stars in Your Eyes'. The proceeds from this event are then reinvested into the community, directly supporting music education for young people in the Upper Clutha,” Isabelle Prosser said.

Otago Polyfest also received $50,000 of OCT funding to support the celebration of Māori and Pacific cultures. The event showcases 160 groups from early learning services and schools across the Otago region, including the Upper Clutha.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival will mark its 67th year with a $6,000 boost from OCT. The annual event, heralding the arrival of spring, has become a cornerstone of community spirit in Central Otago.

Other grants went to Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust ($5,000), Otago Community Employment ($28,600), Royal New Zealand Plunket Trust ($18,000), Otago Fish & Game Council (2,900), and Otago Country Music Club Inc ($1,700).

The OCT is a philanthropic organisation which applies its trust funds for charitable and other purposes of benefit to the community. Since its inception the OCT has granted $219.2M into the Otago region.

PHOTO: Supplied