Local projects awarded Climate Emergency Grants

THE Surf Coast Shire has awarded $10,000 to a community initiative as part of its Climate Emergency Grant program.

Common Ground Project and Winchelsea Primary School are behind the successful project with their ‘School for Climate: Regeneration and Climate Action in Regional Communities’ initiative.

The winning project will allow students from the primary school to learn about regenerative gardening through the Common Ground Project, applying the knowledge to create sustainable gardens at school.

The School for Climate project was one of two in the running, the second being a partnership between Common Ground Project and Geelong Sustainability.

Local community members had the final say on the outcome, casting a total of 254 votes. The winning pitch received 184.

Two $5,000 grants were also awarded to community-led climate initiatives including Clean Earth Essentials, guided by the Common Ground Project to run workshops teaching the community how to create non-toxic household products.

Danawa at Spring Creek also received $5,000 to implement the Danawa Solar Project, reducing emissions and supporting sustainable food growing.

Cr Tony Phelps congratulated the successful projects.

“It’s inspiring to see our community take action and lead the way on local initiatives.

“We know many in our community are passionate about taking action locally to address climate change.

“Council is proud to support projects that bring this passion to life.”

For more information on the successful grants, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au