Community Strengthening Grants awarded to community groups

Published on 02 June 2026

West Wimmera Shire Council has awarded funding to five community groups as part of round 2 of the 2025-26 Community Strengthening Grants Program.

The successful recipients are Harrow Mechanics Institute, Kaniva Group of Fire Brigades CFA, Dergholm and District Soldiers Memorial Hall, Apsley Golf Club, and Kaniva CFA Brigade.

Dergholm and District Soldiers Memorial Hall will receive $5000 to repair roof stormwater drainage issues, address water damage and mould inside the hall, and install screen doors.

Harrow Mechanics Institute will receive $5000 to sand and refinish the hall floorboards, helping prevent further deterioration, mould and future timber rot.

Apsley Golf Club will receive $3216 for brick repointing and masonry repairs to the clubrooms to address structural cracks and prevent water ingress following storm damage.

Kaniva CFA Brigade will receive $1082 to purchase a chainsaw and personal protective equipment to support emergency response operations, including clearing fallen trees and other hazards following fires and storms.

Kaniva Group of Fire Brigades CFA will receive $893 to purchase a portable fridge and slide for the Quick Fill Trailer, helping volunteers access cold water and safely store food while supporting firefighting operations.

Mayor Tim Meyer said Council was pleased to support local community organisations through this funding program.

“These projects reflect the strong value and contribution of local groups, and this funding will help them deliver important upgrades and improvements,” he said.

Cr Meyer said the applications would provide clear benefits to the wider community.

The Community Strengthening Grants program is designed to promote and increase participation of residents in community initiatives, to build and strengthen local networks and partnerships, and to support community leadership, learning, and skill development.

This funding has two rounds each year and there are two categories for the funding – community projects and facilities upgrades and equipment purchases.