More COVID grants for groups

AN INJECTION of funding in local community groups has been given out by Golden Plains Shire, aimed at supporting events and the activation of community spaces in the municipality.

Running to a combined a combined $46,036, the money came from the Shire’s second round of its COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants program.

Mayor Cr Helena Kirby said grants are key to helping the municipality continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Congratulations to the 23 deserving recipients of our COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants Program’s second round,” she said.

“Council is proud to award $46,036 to these wonderful events and programs in all corners of the Shire, from Shelford to Haddon.”

Among the groups receiving money is the Smythesdale Progress Association, who will put $3490 towards its winter community gathering.

Teesdale Turtle Bend Events Committee received the maximum $4000 for the Live@Turtle Bend festival and Napoleons Enfield Landcare Group received the same for their Frog Pond Social Plantings event.

“This grant program is part of our COVID-19 response, and I’m thrilled to see so many groups receiving support from council to deliver 24 events that will activate our Shire’s small halls and help community life in our townships re-emerge after a challenging year,” Cr Kirby said.

“The COVID-19 Quick Response Community Grants are in addition to our regular Community Strengthening Grants Program, and council thanks the Victorian Government for providing funding for the program so we can offer this additional avenue of support to our local community groups.”

The first round of grants saw 16 community groups share $20,899 for community projects across the municipality.

Meanwhile the State Government is aiming to support local government areas through its Community Activation and Social Isolation initiative, established in response to COVID-19 to help people stay connected to family, friends and the community.