The 2012-13 Hindmarsh Shire Council Community Grants Program was deemed successful by the overwhelming response of applications received. Thirty one applications totalling over $26,000 were submitted for the program.

The Community Grants Program, with a budget of $15,000, was established to assist community groups with provision of services, self-improvement, community development and social action. The 2012-13 Program will support various community groups and their projects, such as the Rainbow Art Group’s mural brochures, Nhill Vintage Machinery Club’s installation of new power points and Yanac Public Hall & Recreation Reserve external wall upgrade.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Dean Miller said, "It is great to see Hindmarsh community groups planning projects for members and the community at large. There was a large variety of projects throughout the four major towns and smaller communities.’

Other community groups utilising the funding program are Jeparit Golf Club, who will use the grant to purchase a vacuum cleaner; Sing Australia Nhill will purchase new uniforms and songbooks; the Hindmarsh Visitor Information Centre will repair the Draught Horse Monument in Goldsworthy Park; Dimboola Little Athletics will refurbish the long/triple jump pit at the Dimboola Memorial Secondary College; Nhill Kindergarten will use the funds to assist in the purchase of shade sails; and the 1

st Rainbow Scout Group will purchase camping equipment.

"It was Council’s decision to spread the funding across the groups, supporting the vast amount of projects to be completed in the next seven months. With over $26,000 worth of applications, we cannot fund all projects to the capacity we would like. We are looking into ways of updating the grant program for 2013 to ensure it meets the needs of our community groups and future projects," Mr Miller said.

Community Groups will receive official notification via post in the coming week with the outcome of their applications. For more information on the Community Grant Program please visit our website www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au or call Katherine Colbert, Community Development Officer on 5391 4444.