Community grants on offer

The District Council of Grant’s popular Community Grants Scheme has seen an increase in the finding pool for its 2023-24 program with $80,000 now on offer for local community groups and sporting clubs.

The Community Grants Scheme aims to assist community groups to develop projects and events that enhance community wellbeing and increase participation in social and leisure activities within the district.

Projects considered under the funding program include, but are not limited to, safety/security enhancements; amenity upgrades; infrastructure and facility renovations; community events promoting inclusion and connection and implementation of club programs.

Acting chief executive officer Leith McEvoy said the scheme was a fantastic opportunity for local organisations.

“Council is pleased to provide a new round of community grants which better assists our community groups to develop their organisations and increase social participation,” he said.

“We are committed to investing back to our local community groups and sporting clubs, and I encourage interested parties to review the updated guidelines.”

Recent recipient Riding for Disabled Mount Gambier received a grant through the program for a much needed facility entrance upgrades at their Sunnybrae Road location.

Treasurer Natalie Zwar (pictured) said the project had been on the to-do list for some time and council’s cash injection had helped bring it to fruition.

“When the horses are led out of the arena there’s our driveway off the road where they can take off out there and onto the main road so it was really a safety issue,” Mrs Zwar said.

“From that point of view, it really has made a huge difference. Overall it made it a much safer environment for handlers as well as horses and clients.”

The Community Grants Scheme guidelines and online application form are available online via Your Say DCG. Council staff are also available to provide assistance at council’s principal office at 324 Commercial Street West or call (08)8721 0444.

Applications for Round 1 close 5pm Monday, December 11, 2023.