Edenhope Equine Facility transformation
Published on 26 June 2024
The Edenhope equestrian community is going from strength to strength, thanks to ongoing support from West Wimmera Shire Council and grant funding from the state government.
Council and the Victorian Government together with the Edenhope Adult Riding Club and the Apsley Pony Club, celebrating the successful transformation of the Edenhope Equity Facility earlier this month at the formal opening attended by the Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora.
Last year, Council received $250,000 from the state government, which, together with $200,000 from Council and $28,000 from the two clubs, went towards construction of a brand-new fully off grid sustainable building at the facility.
The Edenhope Equine Facility features modern amenities including a kitchen, office, first aid room, toilets, and showers.
The facility uses solar and battery storage, plus rainwater tanks, making it a self-reliant, off-grid facility.
The fully off-grid system will mean that operating costs for these community groups are greatly reduced
These enhancements have transformed the experience for members and visitors, offering unprecedented convenience and functionality.
Further demonstrating of their support for local clubs, West Wimmera Shire Council awarded the Apsley Pony Club a $4480 Community Strengthening Grant, at a meeting on Wednesday.
This funding will be used to purchase furniture and appliances to complete the new kitchen and club rooms, further enhancing the functionality and comfort of the facility.
Edenhope Adult Riding Club president Brooke White expressed her gratitude for Council's instrumental role during her speech at the official opening on June 4.
"EARC is so grateful for the support of Council and the state government to get this project off the ground and make it a reality,” she said.
She said the new facility had already been put to go use, with the club hosting two club days, and a showjumping event recently.
The Apsley Pony Club has also hosted events and club days at the new facility, plus have a school equine program each week.
The new facilities mean there is space for children to do activities indoors, during inclement weather.
Edenhope Adult Riding Club’s recent show jumping event exemplified the facility's impact, with the club hosting 69 riders and 87 horses, with 19 families camping overnight.
The building's design, tailored to the clubs' needs, meant that while the clubrooms could be locked at the end of the day, campers still had access to the toilets and showers.
The facility uses off-grid power, meaning there are no arguments between the two user groups about electricity bills.
The user groups had approached Council originally requesting support for a new toilet block, as they previously had limited toilets, that were unsuitable for children or people with mobility issues, and no changing rooms.
The project soon gained traction and turned into a brand-new facility.
Ms White said the new building had also taken the pressure off their volunteer workload.
"In the past, we would have worked solidly during the week leading up to an event to transform the old shed into a canteen and a secretary’s office,” she said.
“Now, we just need to turn up on the day, stock the canteen and the toilet paper supplies and we’re ready to go.”
West Wimmera Shire Council Mayor Tim Meyer said Council was proud to have played a crucial role in bringing the Edenhope Equine Facility to life.
“This project underscores our commitment to supporting local clubs and enriching community life,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing the continued positive impact this facility will have on our region.
“The future looks bright for the Edenhope Adult Riding Club, the Apsley Pony Club, and all who use this exceptional facility, thanks to the unwavering support of the West Wimmera Shire Council.”
The Edenhope Equestrian Reserve Committee, comprising representatives from both Apsley Pony Club and Edenhope Adult Riding Club, is now looking at further enhancements to the facility.
Upcoming projects include installing a new fence around the building, landscaping, and improving the cross-country course and dressage arenas.
These efforts aim to attract more visitors to Edenhope and maximise the benefits of the new facility.