Community shares $230,000 in grants

More than 100 community groups and individuals will share over $230,000 from Corangamite Shire Council's 2021-2022 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 Ruth Gstrein said Council was pleased to inject funding into the community when it was greatly needed.

"Every year it's a great pleasure to allocate funding to community through these grant programs," Cr Gstrein said.

"With the challenges of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, it is even more gratifying to be able to help community groups and individuals work towards their aspirations.

"The money will then give another benefit as it circulates back into the local economy via the businesses, services tradespeople and suppliers who bring each project to fruition."

Cr Gstrein said it would be great to have events and festivals back after a hiatus last year due to the pandemic, subject to health advice and directions.

"It was terrific to see so many applications from event promoters who have remained positive and are planning for when we can gather together again.

"That will be a powerful part of our communities healing from the isolation and disconnection over past months."

Cr Gstrein congratulated the individuals and groups who have applied for grants through each program.

"You've got to respect the passion they have for their communities, their clubs and the environment.

"Council commends them on the fantastic work they do."

The Events and Festivals Grants 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 15 individuals and groups, adding up to $70,500 in grants, $12,800 in-kind support for the use of Council services, and a further $10,410 in fee waivers.

The Community Grants Program offers up to $1,000 (on a dollar-for-dollar basis) towards local community events, workshops and equipment purchases, planning activities and the development of new community, leisure, cultural or recreational programs. Twenty groups shared $17,077.

The Facility Grants Program offers up to $2,000 (on a dollar-for-dollar basis) to Committees of Management and clubs or organisations whose primary function in the Shire is to help with facility improvements or equipment. Forty one applicants were granted a combined total of $63,048, which included $13,048 in surplus funds from the Community Grants Program.

The Environment Support Grants Program offers up to $2,500 (on a dollar-for-dollar basis) for environment and sustainability projects, including installation of energy and water saving items at community facilities. Funding was allocated to 17 groups and 13 individuals, adding up to $65,755. This included $15,755 in surplus Community Grants program funds.

Applications were assessed against the relevant program guidelines to determine eligibility and ranked accordingly.

Community Grants $17,077