Community sponsorship program open for applications

Published on 08 January 2021

The second round of Council’s 2020/21 Community Sponsorship Program will open for applications from Monday 11 January until Sunday 7 February 2021.

This year three rounds of funding are available across two categories – community events and ambassadors.

The ambassador category supports groups or individuals in representing the Shire in achievements in their areas of interest, which could include arts, sporting, academic or environmental endeavours. Up to $500 is available for individuals and $1500 for teams. 

The community event category supports the delivery of youth events and programs, one-off events and new and existing events in Baw Baw Shire, with up to $5000 available. Potential applicants are encouraged to think creatively about how they can engage the community with their events while we continue to be impacted by COVID-19.

In 2020 many community events were impacted by COVID-19, some events were cancelled, modified or rescheduled.  In 2021 events expected to be delivered include the Gippsland Pride Gala, the Rokeby Twilight Trail Run and the Yarragon - Past, Present and Future Expo.

As part of the application process, community groups are required to contact Council’s Events Coordinator for guidance on event planning and public event permit and insurance requirements.

To be eligible for funding, applications must be presented by not-for-profit incorporated organisations that are delivering activities in Baw Baw Shire, or are supporting an individual/team member who are residents of Baw Baw Shire.

Community events will be assessed for achieving connectedness and inclusion, leading towards positive social outcomes and overall merit.

A third and final round for the 2020/21 Financial Year will open in April 2021.

Community events may still be 12 months away but can still be planned for and are eligible to receive funding.

Activities can also be delivered through an auspice arrangement, providing the eligibility criteria is met and a separate auspice application is made to Council. This information is available on Council’s website.

For more information or to apply for sponsorship funding, visit www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/CommunitySponsorship

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Danny Goss

“As our Shire recovers from the ongoing impact of COVID-19, activities that can bring the community together in a safe way and keep us connected are more important than ever. Council’s Community Sponsorship Program is here to support both local events and ambassadors with their endeavours.”