By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
SEVEN Leopold-based community organisations received some early Christmas cheer, sharing $75,000 in grants from Leopold Community Bank.
Community liaison manager Marg McFadyen said it was the bank’s first grants program, with $50,000 also set aside for sponsorships for local groups.
The grants program would run annually, she said.
The successful community partners were Club Italia, Leopold Men’s Shed, Wallington Bears Baseball Club, Leopold Lions Club, Geelong Equestrian Centre Riding for the Disabled, Bellarine Living and Learning Centre and Friends of the Bellarine Rail Trail.
Club Italia’s Elaine James said the grants made a significant difference to community organisations.
Club Italia had taken the Leopold Men’s Shed under its wing, starting its life in part of the original tin shed used to establish the club, she said.
“Leopold Men’s Shed has grown so much that they now lease the whole shed and have use of the surrounding land for a luscious vegetable garden.”
Ms McFadyen said grant applications were available by phoning her on 0407 886 397 or emailing marg@leopoldcommunitybank.com.au.
