Southern Grampians Shire Council has allocated over $178,000 to community projects in the first round of the 2023/2024 Community Grants program.
A total of 34 grants applications were formally approved at last night’s September council meeting.
Southern Grampians Shire Council CEO Tony Doyle said council received a record 60 funding applications for round one of the annual funding program.
“After much deliberation during the selection process, more than half of these applications were chosen to receive various levels of funding,” said Mr Doyle. “We were all very impressed with the variety of projects and initiatives presented to us.”
Mr Doyle said the successful recipients in round one were working on projects and initiatives that would not only benefit the user group itself, but the broader shire community and beyond.
“Every year we are inspired by the community driven projects from locals designed to support the region and all those within it,” he said.
Below are some of the successful applications for round one (a full list can be found on the council website):
• Melville Forest Community Centre for lighting upgrades
• Pigeon Ponds Recreation Reserve for baby change table installation
• Balmoral Historical Society for heritage restoration
• Hamilton Clay Target Club for reliable water supply project
• Hamilton Speedway Drivers Inc for the Australian Street Stock Title event.
Southern Grampians Shire Council has contributed more than $1 million since 2018/2019 for grant funding, highlighting the constant innovation and drive of local community members.
Split annually into two rounds, community groups and individuals in the shire are encouraged to apply for funding to help progress important community projects from idea into reality.
“The Community Grants program was established to deliver council grants that are responsive to the needs and opportunities of the community, inclusive and equitable to all,” added Mr Doyle. “And with the calibre of applications, it is clear our region is full of ideas and creativity that we can help make a reality.”
Round two for the 2023/2024 financial year will open for applications in early 2024.
