Community groups and individuals across the Surf Coast are being encouraged to apply for funding through the annual grants programme run by the Torquay Lions Club, which supports a wide range of local projects and initiatives.
The club, which has served the region since 1969, reinvests all funds raised back into the community. In the past financial year alone, it distributed more than $82,000 to local causes, including emergency services, health campaigns, sporting organisations, and grassroots community groups.
Club president Ross Yapp said the programme is designed to be accessible, especially for smaller organisations that may not have applied for funding before. He noted that the club aims to support everything from major fundraising appeals to individual community efforts.
Recent recipients have included major charity drives such as the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, as well as local CFA brigades, SES units, and sporting clubs across the Surf Coast region. The grants also support individual pursuits, including youth development and community participation initiatives.
The application process has been intentionally simplified to encourage participation, requiring only basic information about the applicant, the purpose of funding, and the expected community benefit.
Club representatives said the initiative relies heavily on volunteers and ongoing community involvement, and they are also seeking new members to ensure the long-term sustainability of their fundraising and grant activities.
Applications for the latest round of funding are now open via the Torquay Lions Club’s official website.
