Still time to submit an application to the Portland Sustainable Communities Fund

With three weeks to go until applications close in the 2009 Sustainable Communities Fund in Portland, Pacific Hydro is reminding community groups in and around the area that there is still time to get an application in for a chance to share in the $90,000 Fund.

"Applications close on the 25th of May and all community groups who operate in the Portland area are encouraged to apply", said Pacific Hydro Executive Manager, Government & Corporate Affairs, Andrew Richards.

Previous recipient from the Portland Toy Library, President Wendy Crow, agrees and strongly encourages all community groups in the area to apply for funding.

"Pacific Hydro's funding has allowed the Toy Library to purchase new educational toys ensuring our community service remains viable and updated", said Ms Crow.

"Toys are so expensive to buy outright and as the Toy Library is only a $40 annual joining fee we were unable to significantly upgrade our library before we received the grant."

The pool of funding available in 2009 has increased to $90,000 following the construction of the Cape Nelson South wind farm.

"Now that the fund has increased to $90,000 we look forward to supporting an even greater number of community projects this year", said Mr Richards.

The Fund, which is based on a percentage of revenue from the Portland Wind Energy Project, calls for applications each year of the operating life of the project. Applications are invited in the areas of health, education, sporting, environment and the arts and community groups working to make a positive and lasting contribution in the community are encouraged to apply.

Application forms along with the program guidelines and further information are available on Pacific Hydro's website www.pacifichydro.com.au/fund or by calling Community Fund Coordinator Chloe Carpenter on 03 8621 6428.