Council's community building facilitator Margaret Burbidge said it was a difficult task for the assessment team to choose between the applicants.

''We received 31 worthy applications, totalling $150,000, for the $60,000 funding pool, making it a highly competitive round,'' Ms Burbidge said.

''We had a few `big picture' applications giving us a great sense of forward thinking and optimism about the future of community groups.

''Community groups can effectively survive and prosper alone but look to Council for the support offered in the spirit of the community grant scheme funding.''

Among the successful applicants was the Wickliffe Tennis Club, which received funds to renew and upgrade its facilities, while Willaura Recreation Reserve Committee of Management is putting its grant money into the Willaura Community Water Project.

Other community groups to receive grants included the Pomonal Cricket Club, Ararat Jailhouse Rock Festival, Ararat Little Athletics and the Lake Bolac Community Cultural Complex.

''Congratulations to all the successful grant recipient groups and for those who didn't manage it this time, don't forget to get your entries in for the next round of grants in March,'' Ms Burbidge said.

The closing date for the next round of applications is on Friday February 26 2010.

For more information on the community grant scheme funding please contact Margaret Burbidge on 5355 0273.