Two successful projects were announced last night as part of Surf Coast Shire Council's World Environment Day: Pitch Fest celebrations.
Representatives from each group shared how their initiative will address climate change locally, contributing to a thriving community and environment. The projects were funded under Council's Climate Emergency Grants, with each recipient receiving $10,000.
Mayor Liz Pattison announced the following recipients:
$10,000 for Common Ground Project and Lorne P-12 College for 'School for Climate: Regeneration and Climate Action in the Garden & Farm'.
This project will see the entire student community attend and engage with 'School for Climate' a climate and regeneration program at Common Ground Project, providing a tangible example of regeneration and sustainable gardening, farming and food systems in the face of a climate crisis.
Mayor Liz Pattison with Amy Tacey (Common Ground) and Michael Stone (Lorne P-12 College).
$10,000 for The Brainery and Geelong Regional Library Corporation for Arckit Sustainability Studio.
The Arckit Sustainability Studio is a dynamic hands-on educational experience. In groups of up to 30, participants learn the essentials for promoting sustainable living and addressing climate change within an architectural framework. Utilising Arckit, the award winning architectural model building kit, participants will then have the exciting opportunity to construct models of environmentally safe buildings, parks and communities.
Mayor Liz Pattison with Hugh Kinglsey and Madison Old (The Brainary).
"The World Environment Day: Pitch Fest Celebration is an inspiring event and it is wonderful to be part of a community that is passionate about climate action, it fills me with hope for the future", said Mayor Cr Liz Pattison.
"We know that both Council and community play key roles in climate action, separately and together, and Council is proud to support and help empower community-led initiatives through this grant program."
This is the third year of the Climate Emergency Grants with previous projects to have received funding including:
- One Planet Fest - 2024 ($10,000), a climate and sustainability festival co-delivered by Surfers for Climate and Parents for Climate.
- Off Grid Solar - 2024 ($5,000), installation of solar panels at the Aireys Inlet Community Garden
- Ride the Change – 2023 (5,000), A trial of e-cargo bikes and active transport initiatives at Anglesea Primary School.
