Grassroots projects get grant support

COMMUNITY groups in the region will see their projects a step closer to completion thanks to grant funding through Berrybank Wind Farm in partnership with Golden Plains Shire.

More than $65,000 is being shared between five community groups as part of the 2024 round of the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants scheme.

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Brett Cunningham said the wind farm cash is providing a boost for important community projects.

“This grants program supports local community groups and organisations to create sustainable and impactful events and initiatives which help build and connect local communities,” he said.

“Council is excited to see these initiatives come to fruition, and we thank Berrybank Wind Farm for its ongoing support to the local community through this ongoing program.”

Funding was available between the categories of economic development projects and tourism projects, with one year and multi-year funding options open for both.

The Meredith History Interest Group’s Bursting at the Seams! Initiative is being delivered thanks to more than $12,000, and Inverleigh Golf Club is getting $16,740 to expand their disc golf course offerings.

The Turtle Bend Events Committee has been allocated just over $11,000 to support the Live@Turtle Bend and Spring Solstice events.

Nearly $15,000 went towards supporting the annual Inverleigh Dachshund Derby for the next three years.

The Dereel and Surrounding Communities Men’s Shed received $10,000 to deliver their community bonfire.

“We had our first one last year which was funded but having the next three years makes it easier for planning,” said president Gordon Smith.

“We had over 100 people last and we expect more than 150 this year. It’s to bring the community out here to meet each other because we’re quite isolated out here and a lot of people don’t know each other.”

Applications for the round were available throughout May, with successful submitters chosen with the help of the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Committee, made up of organisational, municipal, and community representatives.

This year’s funding contribution was $82,500 and the same amount is set to be made available for the next grant round in 2025.