Colac Otway community groups, event organisers and businesses have the opportunity to secure funding for their projects through Colac Otway Shire Grants Program 2023 – 24 with applications opening Friday 3 March.
After a review of the program at the February meeting, Council approved streamlining grants into three areas: Community Grants, Events Grants and Business Grants.
The Colac Otway Shire Grants Program provides clubs, event organisers, community groups, schools, other organisations and businesses with an opportunity to share in a total pool of $311,500 (subject to budget approval).
Mayor Chris Potter said the grants program provides local groups and businesses with the chance to secure funding towards worthwhile local projects and events and that the new categorisation of grants will make it easier for groups to know which grant to apply for.
“We know that community groups are made up of mostly volunteers and Council wants to make the process as easy as possible knowing that volunteers’ time is valuable.
“Our local clubs, groups and businesses do so much good for Colac Otway and the grants program provides an opportunity to deliver some fantastic projects such as purchase equipment, carry out facility upgrades, undertake training and deliver community, sport, environmental recreation and arts and cultural activities.
“Last year, this included funding for upgrades to the Carlisle River Cricket Club training facility, financial support for the Wye to Wongarra Landcare Group, assistance to purchase line marking equipment for the Colac Otway Rover AFC and costs towards The Perch’s building façade at Lavers Hill.
“The annual grants program creates significant partnerships between Council and the community and we encourage community groups, clubs, businesses and event organisers to apply,” Cr Potter said.
Interested applicants can join online information sessions:
– Wednesday 8 March at 12.30pm
– Thursday 9 March at 5.45pm
