Growing Winchelsea Inc. is a group of volunteer leaders who help provide the Winchelsea community with a united voice.
“We exist to advocate for, to listen to and support our community achieve a thriving Winchelsea. It is important we listen to community needs and respond to make things happen in our community,” says John Tebbutt, President.
Recently the Victorian government called for applications from local organisations under the Tiny Towns Fund. The fund is providing a total of $20 million over 4 years with $5 million for round 1 to support communities of up to 5,000 people in the 48 local government areas in regional Victoria.
“While applications closed on Sunday 25 February 2024 it is important organisations across Winchelsea consider possible future projects and start planning for the 2025 round,” continues John.
The Winchelsea Playgroup with the support of local Coordinator, Danni Menzies is one organisation that is hopeful of success this round.
“Our playgroup needs additional resources to support increasing interest and it was great that Growing Winchelsea was able to connect me to local organisations such as Winchelsea House and the Men’s Shed to provide assistance,” says Danni.
Playgroups bring young children, parents, families and communities together to learn and develop through informal play activities and social interaction. Playgroups help parents and caregivers build social and support networks that encourage and assist them in their valuable parenting role.
Playgroups work best when they are inclusive of all, creating an open, welcoming and friendly environment for all children and their families, no matter their circumstances, backgrounds or cultural identity.
“Our playgroup is here to help families to have fun, relax and to build friendships that last beyond playgroup. We are always keen to welcome new families so why not come along and make new friends,” said Danni.
“We were very pleased to point Danni in the right direction. Linking community organisations allows collaboration and enables positive local development.” concludes John.
