I am often asked how Geelong has become such a magnet for new residents, and how our region is leading the nation in regional population growth.
The lifestyle we have to offer sits at the top of my list.
People are attracted to Geelong because we have the resources and services of a metropolitan city, but they make it their home because it retains the community feel of a smaller town.
Our grassroots groups, clubs and organisations are diverse and welcoming.
They introduce and connect us to people with shared interests, strengthening our social outlets.
They help improve our mental and physical health; stimulate our creativity; and encourage us to contribute to, and give back to, our community.
Supporting these groups and clubs is one of the most rewarding things we do on Council.
Whether it is in the arts, cultural, sporting, recreation, heritage or environment sectors, our Community Grants program funds a massive range of interests and activities.
Recognising that the community is well placed to know what their particular corner of Greater Geelong needs, the program empowers people to put forward their own clever and creative ideas.
Officers then evaluate, and work with the groups, to progress community-led visions into a reality.
In the latest round of our annual program, we have allocated a total of $3.13 million to 44 different recipients.
In the Community Infrastructure space, there are grants up to $350,000 for a range of projects.
Bellarine Catchment Network received the maximum allocation to help make the Bellarine Environment Centre more accessible and comfortable.
Clifton Springs Bowling Club will use a $260,000 grant to upgrade its kitchen; Club Italia Geelong ($50,000) will replace its power board; and 1st Barwon Heads Scouts ($32,482) will conduct a feasibility study into a new Barwon Heads Scout Hall.
Seven restoration projects of significant sites shared in more than $100,000 through the Heritage Grants stream.
The funding will support heritage tour signage at the Barwon Paper Mills; replacement works at the Victorian Railways Institute Geelong Hall and restoration works at The Barwon Club Hotel.
Council further awarded a total of $52,200 to two projects – led by Ocean Grove Primary School and the Friends of the Geelong Botanical Gardens – that help protect and preserve Aboriginal cultural heritage.
What all of these initiatives have in common, is that they will benefit the Greater Geelong community for many years to come.
They will also help our grassroots organisations remain sustainable, allowing them to continue strengthening our community.
While we’ve only just confirmed this major allocation of funding, the Community Grants program does not stop.
Six more grant opportunities – including funding for the arts, environmental sustainability, neighbourhood houses and community projects – are now open.
These are accepting submissions now, with more information available at geelongaustralia.com.au/grants
I encourage anyone with a potential project in these areas to visit the website and learn more about how Council can support you.
