Grants back busy year of events

MORE than $84,000 has been awarded to 17 events across the Surf Coast, supporting everything from major sporting events to community festivals, live music and arts initiatives.

The funding from the Surf Coast Shire will help deliver a diverse calendar of activities ranging from surfing, running, cycling and swimming to writing, music and community awareness events throughout the region.

Eight events secured three years of funding under updated grant guidelines designed to provide greater certainty for organisers and reduce the need for annual applications.

Councillor Mike Bodsworth said the successful applicants demonstrated how their events would help attract visitors during the off-peak season.

“The Surf Coast is one of Australia’s top events destinations, and it’s easy to see why,” he said.

“Our stunning natural environment offers the perfect backdrop for mass participation events such as Amy’s Gran Fondo or The Great Ocean Road Running Festival.

“It’s also great to have boutique and community events – including The Sound Doctor gigs in Anglesea, Run the Marsh in Deans Marsh, and the Women’s Surf Fest in Lorne – which help showcase the unique character of our towns.”

The funded events will feature on the Surf Coast Events calendar during the 2026–27 financial year.

“The online Surf Coast Events calendar is a one-stop-shop to plan your next outing or activity,” Cr Bodsworth said.

“Whether you’re an adventure seeker, enjoy food and wine or you’re keen to catch a local exhibition, you can search events by category and date to find something that suits.

“I love that there are so many outdoor options, particularly following the recent announcement that the Surf Coast Shire is a certified ECO Destination where visitors can soak up nature-focused experiences.”

Applications for the next round of event grants, which includes the community event category and Christmas carols, will open in October.