Cast your vote in the Climate Emergency Grants

THE Surf Coast Shire has opened voting for its Climate Emergency Grants, inviting the community to cast their vote.

Funding for the grants is split into one $10,000 grant and two $5,000 grants, with voting only required for the $10,000.

The Climate Emergency Grants program gives awardees the opportunity to work with the council on initiatives aimed at addressing climate change in the Surf Coast.

The grants fund projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, help the community adapt to impacts of climate change or engage the community in climate action.

“We know our community is passionate about climate action and it shows with the calibre of projects that have been submitted,” Cr Adrian Schonfelder said.

“And now it’s over to the community who can show their support by voting for their favourite project.”

The shire is looking for projects that enact their Climate Emergency Corporate Response Plan 2021-2031.

Two projects have been shortlisted for the $10,000 grant and people will need to vote on the project they think provides a local solution to the climate emergency and has a tangible community benefit.

The first project is Geelong Sustainability Group and Common Ground Project partnering with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to deliver community sessions for people to become active stewards in the climate future.

For the second project Common Ground Project and Winchelsea Primary School would team up to allow students to learn about regenerative gardening and using the knowledge to create sustainable gardens at school and home.

“Council is proud to support community-led initiatives through this grant program,” Cr Schonfelder said.

“We know locals play an important role in climate action, and these grants enable people to deliver community-led and community-focused programs.”

Voting closes on June 10 and successful grants will be announced on June 13.

For more information, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au