By Alesha Capone
Wyndham council has allocated $2 million in grants to help hundreds of local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The council announced a $5 million economic support package back in March when the pandemic lockdown first began, including a $1.5 million WynLocal Business Recovery and Growth Program offering grants of $5000, $10,000 and $20,000 for businesses.
The program funding was boosted to $2 million after 458 traders and groups applied for grants.
The council last week announced 285 businesses had been successful.
Cr Mia Shaw said the news “could not have come at a better time” for businesses, as metropolitan Melbourne returned to a six-week, stage-three lockdown.
It comes as state Treasurer Tim Pallas announced a $534 million business support package for Victoria.
Developed in consultation with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and the Australian Hotels Association, the package will include cash grants for struggling businesses, mental health support for business owners, relief for tourism operators and targeted advice for businesses to stay afloat.
The council has awarded 19 grants of $20,000 to businesses located across Werribee, Werribee South, Hoppers Crossing and Point Cook.
The Garden Feast Café in Werribee, which is also a nursery and functions venue, will receive a $10,000 grant.
Cafe owner Maree Planner said the business, which is mainly a dine-in venue, had lost 95 per cent of its income since lockdown restrictions were introduced in March.
Ms Planner is planning to use the grant to kick-start a different revenue stream, by attracting local couples looking for a wedding venue.
She said she would use the grant money to promote the venue in bridal websites, magazines and expos.
“We definitely could not have done this, at this stage, without the help of the Wyndham City Council, to which we are very grateful,” she said.
Grant applications were open to Wyndham-based businesses which employ 50 people or less (effective full-time).
Wyndham-based industry peak bodies were able to apply for a maximum of $10,000.
The Garden Feast Cafe is located at 63-69 Railway Avenue in Werribee, see gardenfeast.com.au for details.
