Greater Western Water (GWW) has awarded over $125,000 in grants and sponsorships to community organisations through its inaugural Thriving Communities program.
GWW received 90 applications for funding in October 2022, with eleven groups receiving sponsorship of up to $5,000 and five groups awarded grants of up to $20,000..
General Manager Strategy and Partnerships, Kessia Thomson, said it was fantastic to see locally led projects creating opportunities to increase participation in community life.
“We received many outstanding applications for projects across our area, all with the purpose of inspiring and connecting people to community or Country,” Ms Thomson said.
“We’re proud to help sixteen groups bring their diverse ideas to life and actively contribute to making our region a great place to live.”
Director of Macedon Ranges Music Festival’s and Melbourne-based guitarist, Jimmy O’Hare, said the $5000 funding the festival received would help secure high-calibre performers for the event, which benefits the whole community.
“Attendees will experience an uplifting community-focused day, where friends and family come together to celebrate live music. Local business owners will benefit from increased patronage and local groups will thrive as they unite to deliver the region’s biggest community music event,” Mr O’Hare said.
Speaking on behalf of Moorabool Landcare Network and the Grow West program, Roger MacRaild, said their grant of nearly $20,000 to rehabilitate the banks of the Werribee River will have a significant positive impact on the environment, wildlife and community.
“There is extensive infestation of serrated tussock and artichoke thistle along the banks of the river. Rehabilitation will improve water quality and habitat potential, particularly for the vulnerable platypus who live around the site,” Mr MacRaild said.
“It will also have a significant influence on farms in the area who are currently at risk in terms of biodiversity, productivity and fire safety.”
