Novel ideas pay off

SCHOOLS and community groups in Casey can apply for grants to put into motion their ground-breaking ideas when it comes to using water.
South East Water is offering three $3000 grants to help give organisations a kick-start to develop innovative ideas to use water in their garden.
South East Water general manager customer and business futures Hamish Reid called on applicants to creatively describe how their garden will be innovative with water.
“We’re offering grants to groups and organisations that think of creative and resourceful ways to use or showcase water in their garden – it might be a water sculpture, drought tolerant plants, water friendly design or an innovative watering system,” he said.
“Gardening has so many benefits including the development of teamwork and knowledge of horticulture, and it also gives everyone involved a great sense of achievement.
“That is why we are urging all school and community groups in Melbourne’s south east to get involved.”
The grants can be used to help finance rainwater tanks, watering systems, creative water features to make gardens more sustainable and to purchase plants, tools and mulch.
This year will see an online voting element added to the program, with community members able to cast votes for the best shortlisted ideas via the South East Water website.
Runners-up will also receive prizes with second place for each category receiving a $500 Bunnings’ voucher and third place a prize pack valued at $200.
Entries close on Wednesday 2 April.
To apply visit southeastwater.com.au/loveeverydrop.