Bass Coast Shire Council celebrated the success of local community groups at a Community Grants Celebration at the Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club.
Over the past year, 80 community groups received a total of $276,327 in funding for their projects.
The event was an opportunity for the groups to share stories and images of their projects, made possible through the grant program.
Groups included the Arts Society Phillip Island Region (ASPIR), which received a grant to help renovate its new base at the Creative Arts Station in Settlement Road in Cowes.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead shared her pride in the program.
"These grants empower our community groups to achieve amazing outcomes that enrich life across Bass Coast.
"I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how this funding helps bring ideas and projects to life and builds skills and confidence in our local groups. I look forward to seeing even more inspiring events, projects, and improvements in 2025."
Council's Community Grants Program is open year-round and assessed twice annually, and offers funding across several categories:
- General Community Grants: $2001-$5000 for equipment, activities, or project seeding.
- Festivals, Celebrations, and Events Grants: $2001-$5000 for community-led events.
- Minor Capital Works Grants: Up to $5000 for facility improvements or fixed equipment.
- Major Project Funding: $5001 up to $10,000 for larger-scale projects, excluding Equipment, with up to three funded per round.
Community Grants 2025 Round 1 are currently open and close Friday, March 7, 2025. For more information about the program and applications, please contact Council's Grants Officer: www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/grants.
In addition to Community Grants, the 36 recipients of the 2024 Quick Response Grants were also celebrated. These grants provide immediate funding of up to $2000 and support a diverse range of needs like equipment and small events.
Quick Response Grants are offered monthly with the current round closing on Friday, January 3, 2025. If you are interested in finding out more, contact the Grants Officer. www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/grants