COGG signs off on Community Events Fund

THE City of Greater Geelong has concluded details for its new $300,000 Community Events Fund which aims to support “moderate-sized” events.

Grants of up to $20,000 are on offer for events in 2020, with multi-year funding on a progressive basis an option for eligible applicants.

Council has advised it will coordinate a series of community information sessions to provide details about the Community Investment and Support Fund (CISF) timelines as well as the application and assessment process.

Councillor Pat Murnane, who chairs the city’s finance portfolio, said events supported via the Community Events Fund will contribute economic and social benefits to the region.

He also said the fund meets four of the 11 priority areas outlined in the city’s Council Plan 2018-2022.

“There are a number of distinct local communities around Greater Geelong and we want them all to have an event that they can be proud of,” Cr Murnane said.

Funding of $100,000 per year for three years has already been allocated to Diversitat so it can continue facilitating Pako Festa.

Council has also allocated $30,000 to support a Community Events Rapid Response process, giving events that need urgent support the chance to apply for a one-off payment of up to $10,000.

Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood said this decision allows for flexibility in the application process.

“We want to make sure a fair chance is given when applying for funding,” he said.

“The funding on offer from the Community Events Fund will no doubt pave the way for new, exciting events to be held in Greater Geelong, further adding to our reputation of putting on quality events of all sizes.”

A total of $170,000 will be available in the Community Events Fund over two rounds in September 2019 and February 2020.