Community Strengthening Grants awarded

Published on 23 February 2023

West Wimmera Shire Council has awarded money to six community groups as part of its Community Strengthening Grants Program.

Council discussed the grants applications (submitted under round two of the 2021-2022 program) at a meeting last week.

Council was happy to approve the applications received from Kaniva Playgroup, Kaniva Leeor United Football Netball Club, Harrow National Bush Billy Cart Association, Lake Charlegrark Recreation Reserve Committee, and Goroke Memorial Town Hall.

An application from Edenhope Lions Club was also partially approved.

Kaniva Leeor United Football Netball Club will receive $5000 to go towards a new shelter at the netball courts.

Lake Charlegrark Recreation Reserve Committee will receive $4895 for a new garden shed to store equipment.

Harrow National Bush Billy Cart Association will receive $4830 to upgrade its timing system, ready for the association’s event in March.

Goroke Memorial Town Hall will receive $3300 to upgrade the sewage system at the hall.

Kaniva Playgroup will receive $1200 to provide live entertainment for children at the Kaniva Show.

An application from Edenhope Lions Club was also partly approved, and the group will receive money for new curtains and counter at the Edenhope Lions Op Shop.

Mayor Tim Meyer said it was great to be able to award the community groups money for these important projects.

“These are all worthy projects that will benefit the local communities,” he said.

Cr Meyer said all the applications were of good merit that would benefit the 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 three categories for the funding – community projects, community events, and facilities upgrades. Grants of up to $5000 are available for some categories.