Grants boost for groups

By Tate Papworth

More than 140 local groups will share in Brimbank Community Grants totalling $560,000 for a diverse range of projects supporting youth, seniors, the arts, sports, festivals and more.

Mayor Margaret Giudice said there had been significant interest in the scheme.

“This year we received 186 applications and have been able to support more than 140 of these with $560,000 in community grants for programs, activities and events.

“These are important organisations working with our young people, diverse cultural groups, residents, seniors and vulnerable members of our community to support, inspire and build community pride.”

This year’s Community Grants Program has been expanded to also include funding for major festivals and events.

The St Albans Lunar Festival, Keilor Gift, Sunshine Short Film Festival 2019 and the Sunshine Lantern Festival were all successful applicants.

“We know that festivals are important to our community – they bring people together to celebrate all that we love about our proud Brimbank community,” Cr Giudice said.

“This is the second year running that council has increased funding through this grants program and to increase the support offered to these vital community organisations and events.”