Envirogrants return to support grass-roots green initiatives
Published on 21 November 2022
Western Downs Regional Council's popular Envirogrants program has returned for another round to support local community groups in building a more environmentally sustainable future for the region.
Applications are now open for the environmentally-focussed initiative which is delivered in partnership with Council's waste and recycling contractor, IOLAR Operational Services, and aims to support community organisations in bringing their green initiatives to fruition.
Council Spokesperson for Planning, Environment and Agribusiness, Councillor Andrew Smith, said that the Envirogrants program is a wonderful way to support our community groups whilst also promoting sustainability in the region.
"The Western Downs is a region rich in natural assets, and as a community we take pride in our environment and vibrant heritage. Council is proud to be part of an initiative that empowers our communities to protect and preserve the best of our region now and into the future,” Cr Smith said.
"We've seen some fantastic green initiatives brought to life by past grant recipients, including educational community gardens, solar panels, shade sails, watering systems, and invasive weed removal programs.
"The funding for this fantastic program comes from the proceeds of our Recycling Market Shops at Dalby, Chinchilla and Miles. Thanks to our residents purchasing items to re-use and recycle we can use a huge 40% of the proceeds from our tip shops to support environmental and sustainable projects throughout the region via Envirogrants.
"We know that 'it's the people that make it' in the Western Downs, so I encourage the community to submit their applications so we can help to bring their ideas to life."
Past recipients of Envirogrants who have implemented their sustainable projects are now beginning to see the fruits of their labour, sometimes quite literally.
The Gums State School P&C member, Jen Austin, said that the students have benefited greatly from a vegetable garden and self-watering system that the school was able to install after being awarded an Envirogrant in May 2020.
"The kids absolutely love the garden. They are so eager to be involved in every step of the process, from planting the seedlings and weeding the beds, to harvesting the vegetables. They are so proud to make and eat food made from vegetables they grew themselves, and some have even started growing their own fruits and vegetables at home," said Ms Austin.
"It's also been a great learning tool. The students are taking responsibility for the garden beds and learning so much about where their food comes from and how to take care of the environment. Envirogrants helped make this all possible. I think it’s fantastic that Council supports projects like these in our community, and I hope other community groups take the opportunity to apply for an Envirogrant."
Moonie State School has a similar success story, with a grand opening celebration for their community garden planned for early December.
P&C Association member, Benita Bensch, said that the official opening will be an exciting day for the school and community.
"It's been a huge collaborative effort over the last 12 months to get the garden to the point it's at, and we are very pleased and proud of what we have created for the benefit of the Moonie community," said Ms Bensch
"Since being awarded an Envirogrant an empty unused space has been transformed into a landscaped garden, complete with our own version of the Moonie River flowing through it. It's made a huge difference to the look and feel of the area. The children have been great little helpers with raking, shovelling and planting plants. We are all very excited to see how the garden will evolve over time and the benefits it will have for our local children.
"We really appreciate the support of Council and IOLAR Operational Services. Our Envirogrant was hugely important in allowing us to undertake this fantastic community project."
Applications for Envirogrants are now open and, close on 20 January 2023.
To apply for an Envirogrant, or to find out more, visit wdrc.qld.gov.au/envirogrants or phone Council on 1300 COUNCIL.
— Ends —
Media Contact:
Western Downs Regional Council Media Office 07 4679 4265