HORSHAM Rural City clubs, schools, community groups and organisations will benefit from more than $310,000 in community development grants.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
More than 90 recipients will receive money through the 2014-15 community development grants program.
Sporting clubs and recreation reserves will receive $138,110; community organisations $50,337, festivals and events $38,200; kindergartens $28,560; community halls $27,244; community services $21,800; and general welfare $6000.
Horsham Motorcycle Club president Kenny Watts said the grants program was vital for community organisations and services.
The club received $10,000 for critical safety fencing.
Mr Watts said 155 metres of fencing would be erected in time for the Australian Quad Bike Championship and the Australian Sidecar Championship events in October.
“We’re rapt to receive this grant,” he said.
“The old fences weren’t safe. Improving the track gives us the opportunity to attract better events.”
Mr Watts said the Dooen track was one of Australia’s leading motorsport venues and would host its third national title this year.
Other highlights of this year’s grants program include $19,800 for the Wimmera River Improvement Committee; $12,000 for Horsham and District Kindergarten Association; $10,000 for Central Park Tennis Club; $9400 for Natimuk Showground; and $8400 for Coughlin Park.
Horsham Mayor David Grimble said the community development grant program was an important part of council’s annual budget considerations.
“These grants will help community groups to make things happen, improve their facilities and work together for more engaged and healthy communities in our municipality,” he said.
“We’re delighted to assist so many worthwhile community programs.
“We’ve been distributing community development grants since Horsham Rural City Council was formed in 1995.
“It’s something we see as an important priority for our municipality.”