Surf Coast Shire Council’s Event Grants and Sponsorship Program starts in February, and features changes adopted by Council in December.
The revamp includes the removal of a three-year waiting period for past recipients, with applicants now able to apply annually.
Other changes include:
- A pass/fail outcome, for all applications under a Disability Access and Inclusion criteria.
- The Community Event Grants stream to be released in April and October, under two separate rounds, allowing a shorter lead-in time from application to event.
- Increased funding for Christmas Carols, with an allocated amount per township.
Councillor Libby Stapleton said boosting the local economy, fostering community and cultural development, and helping the environment to thrive is what the program is all about.
“I love the variety of events every year, both big and small. The best thing about our events calendar is the diversity, from bespoke community gatherings to larger scale events set against the stunning backdrop of the Surf Coast,” Cr Stapleton said.
“We know funding assistance is welcome, and as a Council love supporting an assortment of activities that bring significant economic and social benefits.
“Last year’s program reflected and celebrated the natural beauty of the Surf Coast Shire, the strong community bonds, and healthy lifestyles.
“From car shows, trail runs, and cycling events, to markets and festivals, I look forward to seeing the diversity of applications in the upcoming round.”
The program is available to not-for-profit and commercial event organisers, holding an event in the Surf Coast Shire, under four event funding streams:
- Tourism Event Grants up to $10,000 (open 1 – 28 February 2024).
- Boutique Creative/Special Focus Event Grants up to $7,500 (open 1 – 28 February 2024).
- Community Event Grants up to $3,000.
- Round 1: Open 1-30 April (for events held 1 July 2024 – 24 December 2024)
- Round 2: Open 1-31 October 2024 (for events held 1 February 2025 – 30 June 2025)
- Sponsored Events upon application.
You can find more details, including eligibility and criteria and the application process on the Surf Coast Shire Council Event Grants and sponsorship Guidelines page.
Please email eventgrants@surfcoast.vic.gov.au or call 03 5261 0600 to arrange an appointment with an Events Officer.
Media enquiries:
media@surfcoast.vic.gov.au
The Sound Doctor is an event in Anglesea, and grant recipient under the Boutique Event Grants stream. Mama Kin Spender is pictured performing. Photo: Patrick Callow.
