General News
26 November, 2025
Action grants for community groups
THE Hindmarsh Shire Council has awarded more than $10,000 to 11 local organisations through Round One of the 2025/2026 Community Action Grants Program, with several Rainbow, Dimboola, and Nhill groups set to benefit from the latest round of support.
The program assists volunteer-run organisations in strengthening their operations, delivering community-focused projects, and maintaining critical local assets.
In Dimboola, five community groups were successful.
The Dimboola Croquet Club will receive $863.64 to construct a shelter over the main entrance to its clubrooms, offering much-needed weather protection.
Their treasurer, John Moore, said the grant will shelter us on rainy days.
“It’s not a major project, but the new shelter will stop rain coming in over the entrance door, which has been a problem for us,” he said.
“We’re thankful for any grant support we can get, and every bit helps us improve our facilities.
“There’s plenty more that needs doing around the club, but this shelter will definitely help protect the entrance and make things better for members.”
The Dimboola Cemetery has been allocated $828.64 to purchase a chainsaw and native plants to assist volunteers in maintaining the grounds’ presentation.
The Dimboola Sporting Club will receive $1000 for a new cabinet to secure its defibrillator, enhancing safety at the venue.
The Dimboola Tennis Club will use its $854.54 grant to purchase tennis balls for games and subsidise members’ playing shirts.
The Dimboola RSL Sub-Branch will receive $930.78 to purchase new shelves and cupboards for the RSL Hall.
Mayor Ron Ismay said the grant money will enhance the services of community groups and support their members and volunteers.
“It’s fantastic that Council can continue to support local community organisations and the incredible work that they do through our Community Action Grants Program,“ he said.
“This year, we saw a range of applicants from community groups who have genuinely considered projects that will improve their services, protect their assets, and support their volunteers.”
The Rainbow Recreation Reserve will also receive a boost, with $814.55 awarded for the purchase of two vacuums to support volunteers in maintaining community spaces used for sport, training sessions and local events.
Other grants across the Shire include $1000 to the Nhill A&P Society Vintage Club Inc. for a new storage shed; $1000 to the Nhill Golf Club for upgrades to the kitchen facilities; $1000 to the Nhill and District Historical Society for a laptop, printer and electronic payment machine; $908.18 to the Nhill Bowling Club for cleaning equipment; and $944.55 to the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre for a new computer to assist volunteers cataloguing museum items, as well as visitors wishing to access war service records.
Cr Ismay encouraged additional groups to take advantage of the program.
“I encourage any organisations who are looking for assistance to consider submitting an application for Round Two of our Community Action Grants program in the new year.”
For more information, community groups can contact the Community Wellbeing Team on (03) 5391 4444 or email grants@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.
