Community organisations, clubs, event organisers and businesses will share in over $300,000 in the Colac Otway Shire Grants Program 2023 - 2024.
Mayor Chris Potter said seventy-two recipients would share $311,500 in funding for a variety of projects and events.
"The grants recognise and support the incredibly hard-working volunteers, club members and businesses making our communities better through their events, regular activities and equipment and facility upgrades.
"We were delighted to be over-subscribed this year, which shows the enormous interest in the program and this year's recipients are showing their commitment to the projects and events by investing over $3 million themselves," Cr Potter said.
"We are excited to partner with community groups and businesses right across the shire on really innovative and exciting initiatives put forward in the application process."
This year's community grants will support solar panels for the Cororooke Hall and Apollo Bay Football Netball Club, upgrades to the Apollo Bay Surf Life Saving Club, maintenance of community outdoor sculptures at Beech Forest, and replacement yards at the Colac Pony Club.
Events grants will support the Run Forrest Trail Run, WinterWild 2023 in Apollo Bay, Birregurra Community Day 2023, Colac Orchid Show, Warrion Annual Flower Show and Swim Apollo Bay.
Business grants will support improving the façade of the Colac Central Motel and Selwyn Jewellery in Murray Street Colac, and the Apollo Bay YHA.
"They are just a sample of the very exciting projects and events we can look forward to over the next 12 months. We also look forward to celebrating this year's grant recipients at an event on July 12 to be held at COPACC," Cr Potter said.
This year's grant recipients include:
