Are you a passionate, motivated or simply environmentally curious member of the Surf Coast community?

Do you want to learn more about community-led environmental projects happening in the area, and how you can get involved?

Join us for the EcoConnect Surf Coast: Empowering Local Action to celebrate local climate and environment initiatives, learn about funding opportunities, and connect with like-minded people.

This event will showcase good news stories from Surf Coast Shire Environmental Grant recipients, de-mystify the grants process, provide the opportunity to spend some time with and learn from other passionate people living and working in the Surf Coast.

What to Expect:

Inspiring stories of recent environmental action across the Surf Coast
Launch of Council's Climate Emergency and Library of Things grants streams
Networking with passionate locals and community groups

Enjoy nibbles and the opportunity to connect with passionate people working in the area.

Grant Streams Explained:

Climate Emergency Grants (7 April - 11 May)🌱 – Fund initiatives that:

Reduce emissions and contribute to a low-carbon future.
Help communities adapt to climate change impacts.
Engage and mobilise people in climate action.

Library of Things Grant (7 April - 11 May)🔄 – NEW one-off $20,000 grant that will provide funding to:

Establish and run a Surf Coast Library of Things (LoT).
Enable community members to borrow a range of household items to help reduce consumption, reduce waste, and create a more equitable and resilient community.
Drive a circular economy by avoiding waste and sharing items.
Build a stronger community through sharing skills and making new connections.

Natural Environment Grants (Open now - 31 March & September)🌿 – Supporting projects that:

Protect and enhance biodiversity, especially threatened flora and fauna.
Support effective pest plant and animal management in line with Council’s Pest Plant and Animal Management Strategy 2020-2023.
Strengthen partnerships to improve environmental outcomes.
Increase community understanding of local biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Accessibility at Common Ground Project:

Accessible carparks (All)
Accessible toilet
Ramp access to farm and outdoor seating area
Playground and sensory garden

If you have any access needs, please contact Harry Menzies via phone 0408 588 916 and online HMenzies@surfcoast.vic.gov.au

Whether you're an organisation, community group, or passionate individual, this event will help you understand how Council’s grants work, how you can get involved with local community organisations, and how you can turn your amazing idea into a funded project or simply connect with some like-minded passionate individuals.

Be inspired, and find out how you can be part of Surf Coast’s Climate action and environmental sustainability journey!