Community shares $210,000 in grants

Published on 02 August 2019

More than 100 community groups and individuals will share over $210,000 from Corangamite Shire Council’s 2019-2020 grants program.

Funding from the Community Grants, Facility Grants, Events and Festivals Grants and Environment Grants programs was allocated at the July Council meeting.

Mayor Neil Trotter said Council was pleased to contribute to the projects in a way that led to tangible results for the community.

“Managing these grant programs is a significant way Council can help the community take control of its own future.

“Each application is assessed against the relevant program guidelines to determine eligibility, and ranked accordingly.

“The individuals and groups that have applied have shown the initiative and commitment to the betterment of the Shire, and Council congratulates them on the passion they demonstrate in the terrific work they do.”

The Community Grants Program offers up to $1000 towards local community events, workshops and equipment purchases, planning activities and the development of new community, leisure, cultural or recreational programs. Twenty-eight applicants were granted a combined total of $22,752.

The Facility Grants Program offers up to $2000 to Committees of Management and clubs or organisations whose primary function in the Shire is to help with facility improvements or equipment. Forty-five groups shared $77,209.

The Events and Festivals Grant Program offers up to $15,000, made up of a maximum of $10,000 grant funding and a maximum of $5000 of in-kind support. It is intended for bigger events that increase visitation and stimulate economic activity in the Shire. Support was allocated to 14 applicants, adding up to $55,750 in grants, $22,042 in in-kind Council services and $6140 in fee waivers.

The Environment Support Grants Program offers up to $2000 for environment and sustainability projects, including installation of energy and water saving items at community facilities. Funding was allocated to 20 applicants, adding up to $30,000.

Cr Trotter said it was particularly exciting to see two new annual festivals—Colour Terang and Crayfest—and two one-off events—The Botanic Gardens 150th Anniversary Exhibition and the Heytesbury Settlement 60th anniversary—supported under the Events and Festivals program.

“These new events will add to the vibrancy to our communities provide more incentive for visitors to come and explore our Shire, as well as two of them highlighting significant historical milestones for the Shire’s heritage.”