Bass Coast Shire Council proudly celebrated the achievements of local community groups this week at a warm and inspiring Community Grants Celebration held at The Union Theatre, Wonthaggi. Over the past year, 92 community groups received a total of $294,000 in funding, helping turn creative ideas and community needs into projects that make a real difference.
Our much-loved Climate Grants also dedicated $40,000 to local climate initiatives - a fantastic investment that showcases the creativity, care and forward-thinking spirit of our community.
The evening showcased what makes Bass Coast special: passionate people, innovative thinking and communities that care deeply for one another. Grant recipients shared stories, photos and reflections on how funding has helped them strengthen connection, spark creativity and build resilience across Bass Coast.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead hosted the night, and spoke proudly about the impact of the program:
"Nights like this truly remind us why Bass Coast is such a special place. This event is our chance to recognise and celebrate the enormous contribution you all make across Bass Coast. Council can provide funding, but you turn that support into action, connection and real impact."
Among the highlights and stories shared on the night:
Way Finding Signage for the Cemetery
Pamela Rothfield from the Phillip Island Cemetery Trust shared how access to a $10,000 Major Grant enabled the installation of historic-style section signs to improve navigation for visitors seeking ancestors' graves in the 150-year-old cemetery, which holds more than 2,500 burials - and allowing the project to happen far more quickly than the Trust could have achieved with its remaining funds.
Long Journeys: Stories from the Bass Coast Adult Learning Community
Dr Laura Brearley from Bass Coast Adult Learning shared the group's short film, funded through a $4,500 Community Grant. Long Journeys is a story-telling and film-making project capturing the voices and experiences of BCAL's English as an Additional Language learners
Pocket Guides to the Western Port Woodland
Armed with a lively nature quiz, Catherine Watson from Save the Western Port Woodlands shared the group's $5,000 Community Grant project: a series of pocket-sized guides celebrating the rich biodiversity of the Western Port Woodlands. These booklets are now in the hands of walkers, families, and nature lovers across the region.
