Springdale Messenger - Cr Jim Mason 1 Dec 2019

Community clubs and groups across the region have been busy making a start on infrastructure projects and events, after getting some well-deserved financial support from the council’s grants team.

Successful clubs across the region have shared in a massive $3.12 million for community infrastructure projects and nearly $85,000 for events.

The cash is going towards funding pavilion upgrades, new floodlights, festivals, literary events and much more.

I couldn’t think of anything better than supporting community members making new friendships, getting active, learning a hobby or trying out a new food.

The Bellarine Peninsula certainly hasn’t missed out!

Council’s granted the Bellarine Landcare Group $16,000 to investigate, plan and design a new all-abilities access building, at its Indigenous Plant Nursery with the Bellarine Secondary College in Drysdale.

It’s hoped to include an accessible shower, change room and multi-purpose areas, to meet the needs of passionate volunteers, some of whom are elderly, and students.

I’m all for greening the Bellarine and helping those who do so!

I can tell you right now, members of the Indented Head Community Association are feeling quite chuffed after receiving $66,000 to build an acrylic tennis court and basketball multi-purpose facility.

The cash from council covers two thirds of the project, which will feature new fencing, fixed tennis court posts and two new commercial grade basketball towers.

Council strongly supports community clubs and groups maintaining high standard facilities, so this grant a real win for the Indented Head community.

Over to Portarlington where the Demons Football Netball Club has pocketed more than $25,000 to install new netball court flood lights.

I applaud the club for transitioning towards energy efficient LED technology.

Several months ago, Cr Trent Sullivan and I took a ride on the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway, which really brought out our inner child!

There we met with the dedicated volunteers who showed us their long-term vision.

I’m happy to announce the railway has received $9,560 to build some new fencing around the signal box building, towards the station platform and toilets.

A full list of recipients can be found at www.geelongaustralia.com.au/grants.