Grants of up to $5,000 are now available for projects in Lake Macquarie aimed at helping the environment or promoting environmentally sustainable behaviour.
Lake Macquarie City Council’s Chris Harle said the Lake Mac Community Environment Grants Program was open to all non-profit organisations in the city, including P&C groups, community preschools and Sustainable Neighbourhood Groups.
“We’re open to any ideas and applications that focus on those core themes of environment and sustainability,” the Sustainability Engagement Coordinator said.
“That could be something like bush regeneration or a community garden, but it’s important for eligible groups to remember that sustainability is broader than veggie gardens and compost bins.
“Projects for consideration could be anything from encouraging sustainable behaviour by reducing resource consumption to initiatives that promote active transport options like cycling, walking and running.
Council’s most recent round of funding included $3,600 for Carey Bay Preschool to install a 5000-litre rainwater tank, $2,200 for community group Warm Blankets for Everyone to help create blankets for the needy out of scrap material and $5,000 for Dudley Public School to create a native sensory garden.
Earlier grants helped Landcare groups rehabilitate bushland at Eleebana and Rankin Park.
Ms Harle said an assessment panel comprising two Councillors, Council staff and representatives from Landcare, the Sustainable Neighbourhood Alliance, the NSW Department of Education and the Aboriginal community would determine who received grants.
“The projects need to address at least one of our four environmental sustainability criteria,” she said.
“They are: protecting and enhancing our natural landscapes, supporting resilient communities, creating a sustainable city and communities, and finally, promoting responsible consumption and production.”
An online information session will be held for interested applicants on Wednesday 25 August from 5-6pm, with applications open until Friday 17 September.
Go to lakemac.com.au for more information and to apply.
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