The Surf Coast Shire Council is calling on local community groups, schools and businesses to submit their ideas for climate action. The top two projects, as voted by the community, will secure $5,000 in Climate Emergency Grants.
The projects must help enact Council’s Climate Emergency Corporate Response Plan 2021-2031, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mobilising local action on climate change.
Applications are open until 23 May, with a project pitch event being held at Council’s Torquay offices on 5 June for World Environment Day.
Each applicant will have up to seven minutes to pitch their project to community members and other applicants. It can take the form of a speech or presentation, or even a song or skit.
The two pitches that receive the most votes from the community will receive a commitment of Council funding of $5,000 each.
Surf Coast Shire Mayor Cr Libby Stapleton called on local community groups, schools and businesses to submit their climate action ideas.
“Responding to our climate emergency takes a whole-of-community approach,” she said.
“Fortunately we have many local groups and people who are passionate about our environment and taking action on climate change. Our Climate Emergency Grants program is about harnessing locals’ passion and ideas to make a bigger difference.”
“We’re looking for project ideas that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and involve as many local people as possible to become agents of change.”
“What I love most about this, is that it’s all driven by our local community. And when local people see others taking action, it inspires them to do the same, so the benefits keep flowing on,” Mayor Stapleton said.
To find out more go to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/grants.
Before applying, applicants should discuss their proposal with Council’s Environmental Sustainability Coordinator (Lauren Watt: lwatt@surfcoast.vic.gov.au) or Grants Officer (Terri Hannan: thannan@surfcoast.vic.gov.au), both contactable by phone on 5261 0600.
