$10,000 in funds are up for grabs in the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee’s (GORCC’s) annual Coastal Grants Program for environmental projects that enhance the local coast.
This year, the focus of the grants has been narrowed to support environmental projects only. In previous years a community category was offered.
Each year GORCC provides up to $10,000 in grant funds towards approved projects that benefits the GORCC managed 37km of Crown foreshore land between Torquay and Lorne.
GORCC CEO Richard Davies encourages any volunteer, community, non-government or school groups undertaking a coastal project to apply.
“By providing financial support to projects that enhance the natural values of the GORCC managed coast we hope to encourage environmental stewardship in the community.
“Our priority is the protection and enhancement of the iconic coastline and fostering strong partnerships with the community produces the best outcome for our coast,” he said.
GORCC Community Liaison Manager Jane Lovejoy said community groups are the backbone of coastal conservation works.
“The projects these community groups undertake on our land provides valuable support to the Conservation Team and their roles in environmental protection.
“The Coastal Grants are an opportunity for these groups to apply for financial support to help complete the important work along the coast,” she said.
Previous Coastal Grants have funded a diverse range of projects, from the procurement of tools and cigarette butt bins, to weed control, revegetation and environmental educational projects.
Jan Juc Coast Action (JJCA) groups Surf Coast Nature Search (SCNS) initiative was one of last year’s successful recipients that benefited from the grants.
JJCA Chairperson Luke Hynes said the SCNS had been a dream of the JJCA group for many years.
“These types of grants are extremely beneficial to the work local volunteers and community groups undertake as funds and supplies are often limited,” he said.
Grant applications are now open and close Friday the 4th December at 5pm. Up to $2,500 per grant project is available. More information, including the online application form is available at http://www.gorcc.com.au/about-us/190
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Blog 