Supporting a Stronger Geelong: Godfrey Hirst’s Continued Partnership with Geelong Connected Communities

At Godfrey Hirst, we are proud to continue our sponsorship of Geelong Connected Communities (GCC), which delivers a 24/7 online grants platform that helps not-for- profit organisations fund their programs, making the Geelong region a better place.

With 160 years of local manufacturing in Geelong, we’re deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported us for generations. We’re proud to support like-minded organisations across a range of sectors - including arts, culture, and community development - that contribute to the vibrancy and wellbeing of our region.

Since it was established in 2013, GCC played a vital role in strengthening the local community by distributing over $2.4 million in funding to date. This remarkable contribution has supported 860 individual grants, helping countless local initiatives grow and flourish. In total, 450 Geelong community organisations have benefitted.

One standout example of GCC’s impact is its decade-long partnership with Volunteering Geelong. For the past ten years, they have proudly supported Volunteering Geelong’s flagship initiative - the ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award. With $37,000 in funding contributed to date, this respected accolade honours the outstanding efforts of local volunteers who go above and beyond in their service. Now a cornerstone of Geelong’s community calendar and endorsed by the local Mayor, the award attracts more than 30 nominations each year, celebrating the dedication, resilience, and community spirit that truly define our region.

As proud sponsors of GCC, Godfrey Hirst is honoured to support initiatives like this, which celebrate and elevate the people who are driving real change in our community. This commitment aligns with our Believe in Better® framework - our promise to continuously improve the way we operate, innovate, and give back. Through this approach, we prioritise sustainability, community engagement, and positive social impact, working together with like-minded partners to create a better future for Geelong and beyond.

Photography: Planet Designs Overland