Barwon Water provides boost to schools, community initiatives

BARWON Water has announced its latest round of community and school grant recipients, funding 25 projects across the Bellarine, Surf Coast and Geelong regions.

Successful projects had to support one or more of Barwon Water’s aspirations for saving water, a healthier environment, circular economy or inclusive communities.

Barwon Water customers, community and strategy general manager Laura Kendall said recipients were chosen based on the potential of delivering community benefits in line with the criteria.

“It’s inspiring to see the diversity and creativity of the projects proposed,” Ms Kendall said.

“We look forward to seeing these projects come to life and positively impact the region.

“We were overwhelmed by the number of excellent applications for grant funding and it was really hard to narrow down the field to the 25 recipients that were chosen.”

The Barwon Heads Community Arts Garden received funding to buy and establish a wicking garden bed.

Wicking technology draws from a reservoir into the soil, ensuring a consistent and sufficient water supply, with plants only using the water when needed.

By receiving the grant, members will be able to trial the techniques before implementing them into their own home environments.

Garden committee member Ian Linley said his group wanted people to understand how to be water-efficient by using a wicking bed.

“It’s far more efficient to use, there’s far less water used, and the plant only uses the water it wants,” Mr Linley said.

“We’ve got a couple of wicking beds in the greenhouse but they’re not really set up the way this one is, so this would be a chance for us to let people know about it.”

People will be able to see the wicking bed in action during the Bellarine Arts Trail on November 2 and 3.

Other grant recipients include Armstrong Creek Boomerang Bags, 1st Barwon Heads Scout Group and North Shore Football and Netball Club.

Sixteen schools were also awarded funding as part of the school grants.

“Our grants program is designed to support the incredible work of community groups and schools across our region,” Ms Kendall said.

“We’re proud to offer practical assistance to help these initiatives come to life, making a positive difference in our local communities.”

Grants of up to $5000 for community-led initiatives and up to $2500 are available through Barwon Water’s annual grants program.

Applicants who missed out on receiving a grant this year are encouraged to apply again next year.

For more information about the program and the full list of grant recipients, head to barwonwater.vic.gov.au