Community connections have flourished along with nutritious vegies and fruit at Moriac's new community garden beds.
Moriac Community Network oversaw construction of the three raised self-watering beds beside the town's men's and women's shed after having secured a $3,000 Quick Response Grant from Surf Coast Shire Council.
"It has really helped to bring people together," project spokesman Gavern Carnes said.
"I've heard some really positive feedback from some of the locals and I believe it has definitely helped encourage people to get out and about – even with the men's shed and ladies' shed just to bring those two groups together.
"We've grown strawberries, snow peas, we did lettuces, we planted some marigolds, we've got lots of tomatoes coming on at the moment … silver beet, broccoli, cabbages, basil and some sage I think.
"It has been a great little project for the community."
Gavern said applying for a community grant to get the project off the ground had been a 'no brainer' for working group members and now they hope to further spread the word that the beds are available for community use at 570 Cape Otway Road.
Council's next round of community grants opens on 1 March.
Cr Phoebe Crockett encouraged groups needing financial impetus for projects or equipment purchases to consider applying.
"A little funding contribution can go a long way, and help lift projects off the ground," Cr Crockett said.
"Grants of up to $8,000 are available in the Natural Environment category, and $5,000 in the Community Initiative category – ideal for helping to transform visions into realities.
"Details are available via our Council grants web page, and organisations should not be daunted by the application process. People unsure about framing applications can seek guidance on eligibility criteria and completing applications from Council officers."
About the grants
Natural Environment Grants of up to $8,000 are available for projects which:
- Protect and enhance biodiversity, in particular threatened flora and fauna.
- Support effective and collaborative pest plant and animal management.
- Build and strengthen partnerships to protect biodiversity and manage pest plants and animals.
- Improve community understanding of local biodiversity and how to protect it.
Community Initiative Grants of up to $5,000 are available for community-led projects that bring people together to collaborate, share resources and realise ideas.
These projects might result in community benefits including increased social connection, inclusion, improved health, wellbeing and safety and learning of new skills.
Applications in both categories must align with Council's Health and Wellbeing Plan, and applicants must contribute a minimum of 30 per cent in cash or in-kind towards the project cost.
