The inaugural Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants program, administered by Council, will open on Thursday 1 September until 2pm, Friday 30 September, with grants available for projects over $10,000.
Delivered in partnership with Berrybank Development Pty Ltd, the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Program provides funding opportunities to support local events and projects in Golden Plains.
Applicants will be eligible to apply for grant funding in two categories: Economic Development and Tourism projects and events and projects and events over $10,000 with one off and recurring funding available.
Groups must match the amount of funding sought to a maximum of $10,000, either in cash or through in-kind contributions, such as volunteer support.
There will be a minimum of one round of application opportunities each year and funding will be made available over the next 15 years in cooperation with Berrybank Development Pty Ltd. The funding pool is based on the number of operating wind turbines over the previous financial year so it will fluctuate year on year. The initial funding pool will be $60,000.
To support community groups applying for the Berrybank Windfarm Community Grants program, as well as Council’s Community Strengthening Grants program, Council is running drop-in sessions across the Shire in which community groups are invited to stop by and discuss their project.
The details of the drop-in sessions are:
- Thursday 25 August: 6.30 to 7.30pm, online via Microsoft Teams
- Monday 5 September: 3 to 5pm, Meredith Community Centre, 4 Russell Street
- Thursday 8 September: 11am to 1pm, Rokewood Mobile Library, Ferrars Street
- Tuesday 13 September: 3 to 5pm, Bannockburn Library, 25-27 High Street
- Friday 16 September: 10am to 12pm, The Well, 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale
- Thursday 22 September: 6.30 to 7.30pm, online via Microsoft Teams
Mayor Cr Gavin Gamble said Council is pleased to administer the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Program, offering additional funding opportunities to support local events and projects.
“Not only does the Berrybank Wind Farm contribute to Victoria’s renewable energy supply, but it also sees significant funding for local community projects.
“The Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants program will be delivered annually in addition to Council’s existing grants program, offering further funding opportunities for local community groups to be able to deliver more projects and events that benefit the community.
“I would encourage anyone who is considering applying for a community grant to attend one of the Community Grant drop-in sessions across the Shire to discuss their project ideas and learn more about the application process.
For more information contact Council’s Council Planning and Grants Officer at 5220 7111 or [email protected].