A worm farm in Wyee is working wonders, transforming food waste into nutrient-rich compost and liquid fertiliser to help community gardens thrive.
Barry Chapman from Wyee Community Hub said the project was made possible by Lake Macquarie City Council's Community Environment Grants.
"Each week we host food stalls for those doing it tough in society, and we were looking for a way to recycle the leftover waste," he said.
"We were delighted when Council approved the project to establish a worm farm, which allows us to reduce waste to landfill and generate rich fertiliser which we provide to community gardens.
"The farm is now so big we provide composting worms to the community - teaching people how to help the environment from their backyards."
Applications for Community Environment Grants are now open.
For the first time the grants have been made available to small businesses, sole traders and social enterprises – as well as the previously included not-for-profit organisations and community groups.
In addition, recipients are no longer required to provide matching in-kind contributions.
Lake Macquarie City Council Coordinator Sustainability Engagement Chris Harle said the grants of up to $5000 were a great way to kickstart projects that improve the local environment and inspire environmentally sustainable behaviour in Lake Macquarie.
"If you've got a sustainability project that could make a local impact, we want to hear from you," she said.
"Initiatives could include recycling and upcycling items, water saving solutions, improving biodiversity and local ecosystems or even eco-education programs."
Grants will be considered for ideas that help promote environmentally sustainable behaviour in the community, reduce the community's carbon footprint, improve biodiversity, reduce waste or encourage recycling and upcycling.
A free webinar will be held on Tuesday 2 September to share information and answer questions.
Valentine Sustainable Neighbourhood Group Chairperson Gayle Russel said they were previously successful in receiving a grant, which funded Solar Sense workshops for the community.
"The aim was to inform, guide and demystify what's involved in solar programs as well as identify what people's energy use was and how people can reduce power usage," she said.
"We collaborated with a solar company who was able to explain how the solar works and really answer any question put to them.
"This program was very critical given what we are facing on our planet, so the more we can help guide people to reduce emissions, the better."
Applications for this round of funding close 5pm Monday 22 September 2025.
