Get your group a grant

IN FANTASTIC news for the Bellarine, Council has announced it will make almost $4.48 million of funding available in its expanded 2024-25 Community Grants program.

Community Grants are one of the most important ways we as a Council can support the community. This year’s funding pool has increased by $431,000 compared to last year.

Most of the funding is directed to volunteer-run clubs and groups and is vital in helping make their projects possible.

Community groups play a crucial role in enhancing our city, from environmental initiatives to improving health and wellbeing and fostering community connections.

There are 13 different grant streams, and available grants range in size to a maximum contribution of $400,000 for capital works in community infrastructure projects.

Applications are now open for the following categories:

• Community Infrastructure
• Arts Projects
• Clean Economy
• Climate Change Partnerships
• Community Events
• Creative Commissions Program
• Environmental Sustainability
• Geelong Heritage
• Healthy and Connected Communities
• Clever and Creative Seed
• Neighbourhood Houses (invitation only)

Over the years, our community grants program has directed millions of dollars into projects big and small.

In the past, Council grants have been awarded to Bellarine groups, including the Bellarine Catchment Network, which was awarded $350,000 to upgrade the Bellarine Environment Centre. The Clifton Springs Bowling Club also received a $260,000 grant to fund a kitchen upgrade.

Meanwhile, earlier this year, the Drysdale Football Club received $50,000 to investigate and plan a future lighting upgrade, and Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway received $19,300 to refurbish and build new infrastructure for improved operation.

With the substantial funding available, it would be fantastic to see even more groups in the Bellarine Ward benefit, and I encourage you all to consider applying.

For full grant guidelines and to apply, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/grants

For further information or support completing an application, contact the City’s grants team via [email protected] or 5272 5560.

Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club

This Saturday, June 22, the Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club (OGSLSC) celebrates its Senior Presentation Night, during which the club will acknowledge the incredible work of its members in keeping beachgoers safe.

Ocean Grove surf lifesavers have rescued stranded swimmers from the waves since 18 November 1948, and last November, the club marked 75 years since it officially affiliated with Life Saving Victoria.

The Bellarine is blessed with many beautiful beaches, and our local surf lifeguards play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of our local community and visitors each year.

I congratulate this year’s awardees and thank all club members for your important work keeping our community safe.

Barwon Heads Tennis Club

Facilities upgrades are under way at Barwon Heads Tennis Club, including the resurfacing of two courts with synthetic grass and installing LED sports lighting on the club’s two unlit courts.

Remaining funds will be put towards minor clubhouse renovations.

The synthetic grass is great for all-round play and easier on joints than hard courts, and the completion of the lighting upgrade will mean all six of the club’s courts can be used at night.

The $275,000 project has been fully funded by the Victorian Government through its 2021-22 Strategic Projects initiative and is being delivered by the City of Greater Geelong. The full project is expected to be completed in September.

Cr Trent Sullivan

Mayor, City of Greater Geelong