Shire announces grants for events

THE Surf Coast Shire will distribute a total of $88,000 in grants to support major and community events across the municipality in 2019-20.

Councillors resolved at their January meeting to support allocations ranging from $10,000 to $500 for 24 events, recognising their roles in enhancing the shire’s identity, vitality and community connections.

They included five first-time recipients:
• Sprint Series Adventure Race in Anglesea ward – $3,000
• Wonderfalls Trail Run, Lorne – $3,000
• Sun Bear Children’s Festival, Anglesea – $3,000
• Run the Marsh, Lorne – $500, and
• Moriac Community Christmas Carols, Winchelsea – $500.

“Council has run this funding program successfully for five years,” shire mayor Rose Hodge said.

“It is important to recognise how much events bring to our communities in social and economic terms, and their ability to increase visitation during off-peak periods.

“These grants can make a significant difference.

“Each event submission is assessed against selection criteria taking in economic development impact, social and cultural benefits and environmental sustainability aspects. Congratulations to the 2019- 20 recipients.”

The $88,000 Event Grants Program allocation is $9,550 higher than in 2018-19.

Submissions for the 2020-21 program will open in September.