Community projects celebrated
The Community Grants celebration recognised the community groups that received funding from council.
Bass Coast Shire Council held its Community Grants celebration at Berninneit in Cowes last week, honouring a range of community groups who were recipients of thousands of dollars of funding to deliver impactful community projects.
Council has worked in partnership with many community organisations this year and said the grants program met the diverse needs of community groups across the region.
During the evening, representatives from a broad range of community groups shared their stories not only about the projects, but also the impact they have in local communities.
“A special shout out goes to our dedicated volunteers who contribute their time to various committees, often more than one,” said Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve.
“Without them, many events and programs simply wouldn't come to fruition. On behalf of the Council, I express our gratitude for the invaluable support provided by our grants program recipients, facilitating so many initiatives.
“The breadth of applications received reflects the remarkable initiative and interest within our community. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.”
Recipients
This year, the program’s three categories saw over 100 applications.
- Quick Response Grants: 50 applications - $72,285
- Community Grants: 47 applications - $200,207
- Climate Action Grants: four applications - $18,006
The program has funded the Phillip Island Ukulele Festival, Inverloch Community Festival and the Deb Reilly Run for the Kids, as well as Corinella’s Veggies on the Verge.
Sporting clubs that received support for equipment and programs, included United Soccer Club and Underwater Hockey in Wonthaggi, Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club and 317ACU Wonthaggi.
Other clubs were funded to undertake capital works, such as clubhouse renewal at the Phillip Island Boardriders Club, the Yes Youth Hub and power to the rotunda at the Harold Hughes Reserve in Corinella.
A range of environmental initiatives were also supported, including Phillip Island Land Alliance launch of “A field guide to the native flora of Millowl”, and Ventnor Coast Care for a foreshore weed mapping.
Six programs received up to $10,000 across the two rounds of the program.
- Phillip Island Football Netball Club: Outdoor blind project
- Cowes Yacht Club: Boat ramp renewal stage 2
- Dalyston Football Netball Club: Dalyston Recreation Reserve playspace
- Phillip Island Community Orchard: Strategic plan and design for building hub
- Newhaven Yacht Squadron: Public accessible stairway renewal
- Glen Alvie Recreation Reserve: Gazebo for historic display stage 1
Additionally, a $10,000 major project funding is awarded in the Climate Action category for each round which was awarded to Energy Innovation Co-op for a feasibility study of EV charging stations at community buildings.
Community Grants 2024 Round 1 is open until March 8, 2024.
www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/community-support-services/community-grants
