Grants aim to give boost to group

THE first round of City of Ballarat Community Impact Grants for 2023 have been awarded to twenty-four local community groups.

More than $144,000 was handed out to musical groups, sporting associations, the LGBTIQ+ community, and other organisations.

Funded from general municipal revenue, the grants aim to help groups increase their offerings and increase participation in community organisations.

They are assessed by a City of Ballarat committee the includes councillors and community members.

As part of the last round Ballarat Little Athletics received more than $9000 which will be used to improve the on track timing system, as well as upgrade solar batteries.

The Ballarat Memorial Concert Band will receive more than $8000 to purchase two timpani drums that’ll be used by beginner musicians and visiting ensembles.

With the first round of money allocated, applications are now being accepted for the second cycle of grants.

Amounts of money on offer range from $500 to $20,000 and mayor Cr Des Hudson said he’s encouraging groups to apply.

“As a Council, we are always keen to give community groups a helping hand, where possible,” he said. “Sometimes and extra boost can make a huge difference.”

Applications for the grants close at 5pm on 6 March.