Council pursues grant opportunities

The Forum section in the Monday, June 29, issue of Peninsula News included two letters regarding the Australian Government funds that Gosford Council applied for to implement actions associated with the Ettalong Beach Reserve Plan of Management (2007).

Grant funds from sources such as the Australian and NSW Governments are essential to implement many of the priority actions council undertakes on behalf of the local community.

Council applies for grants to undertake a wide range of works to improve infrastructure, the environment and service provision in the city.

Whilst environment protection and restoration activities are at the forefront of council's priorities, these works are often expensive and require joint funding assistance from local, state and federal governments to achieve long-term solutions.

As such, council remains vigilant in applying for Federal and State Government grant programs such as coastal protection and restoration activities.

Despite council's efforts, not every funding bid is successful.

Where possible, council also takes advantage of other funding opportunities to support a wide range of projects.

As a result of the global economic crisis, both the Australian and NSW Governments have provided additional opportunities for local councils and communities to apply for grant funds for local projects.

Council has taken advantage of these additional opportunities by applying for grants for a number of projects, including the implementation of various actions from the Ettalong Beach Foreshore Plan of Management.

A determination on council's application is yet to be made by the Australian Government.

Council regularly submits grant applications for environmental protection and restoration works.

In April 2009, council submitted an application to the Australian Government's Caring for Our Country program requesting $4.3 million over four years to address a number of important local environmental issues.

One of the key components of this proposed project was the restoration of the local coastal and estuarine environments.

Information recently posted on the Caring for Our Country website indicates that council was not among the five NSW based projects funded by this program.

Applications will continue to be made to the Caring for Our Country program and other programs that provide funds for environmental projects.

The Peninsula Recreation Precinct project, which includes the restoration of a remnant of the Umina Coastal Sandplain Woodland and adjacent dune vegetation, was successful in gaining funds from the Australian Government.

This project will result in improved recreational facilities and environmental outcomes for the precinct, which is located off Sydney Ave in Umina.

Community participation in this project is both welcomed and encouraged.

Information regarding opportunities for individuals and groups to be involved can be obtained from Gosford City Council's Open Space and Leisure Officer, Shari Timothy on 4325 8222.

Cr Chris Holstein, Mayor of Gosford