Schools, CFAs and CWA benefit from wind farm funds

THE Waubra Country Women’s Association (CWA) volunteers will soon be dressed to the nines, thanks to a recent grant for brand-new uniforms.

The community group was a recipient of ACCIONA Energia’s 2026 Waubra Wind Farm Small Grants Program for its role in enhancing cultural development in the region.

Grants of up to $10,000 are awarded as part of the renewable energy company’s aim to support the future of the regions in which its projects are based.

Waubra CWA’s uniforms will help them to present a professional and united image at events and fundraising activities. They will also make volunteers easily identifiable when out and about.

“Waubra CWA is a group of community-minded women, including members from Ballarat, who come together to support vulnerable women and children in our local community,” said Waubra CWA member Catherine Hayes.

“We are so much more than just scones, jam and cream. New members are welcome.”

As part of the 2026 Waubra Wind Farm Small Grants Program, a total of $36,000 was awarded to nine grassroots groups or organisations working to boost education, healthcare or cultural development in the Ballarat area.

Waubra Primary School will be able to purchase student laptops, Ballarat Group CFA will buy a portable radio charger, Cardigan and Windermere Fire Brigade will be able to get a battery-operated chainsaw, and Invermay Fire Brigade will secure equipment for fire safety education and awareness.

Also among the beneficiaries are Learmonth-Addington Rural Fire Brigade for a station security project, Ascot & District Rural Fire Brigade for a visual technology training upgrade, Eureka Community Kindergarten Association for Waubra preschool learning resources, and Clunes Primary School for its Energy Breakthrough Team.

ACCIONA Energia’s general manager safety, environment and social Paul O’Connell said this year’s recipients play a critical role on the ground.

“We understand the community around our Waubra Wind Farm expect to experience the benefits of hosting renewable energy projects and these grants are just one way in which ACCIONA Energía supports the region,” he said.

“Many local organisations … play a critical role in the community and our small grants program provides funding to help ensure their efforts can continue to make a real difference.

“We were delighted to be able to support so many worthy initiatives again this year.”