In a major boost for community projects, the Meander Valley District is celebrating the allocation of over $238,000 in funding from the Community Bank – Deloraine & Districts. Thirteen local community groups, schools, and clubs were the fortunate recipients, with the funds set to significantly impact various initiatives aimed at enhancing the area’s facilities and services.
The grants were presented at a special ceremony held in Deloraine on 14 October, marking another step forward for local development. Katie Blandford, Branch Manager of Community Bank – Deloraine & Districts, emphasised the positive impact these projects will have on the community, expressing her pride in the breadth of the initiatives supported.
“We are very proud of our community’s projects – they show that this community is committed to developing its capabilities and strengths, in ways which will benefit the whole community” Ms Blandford said. “With a number of projects that improve the long term sustainability of clubs and organisations it is pleasing to be able to support community organisations that are looking to the future.”
The funded projects cover a wide range of community needs, from infrastructure improvements to arts and recreation. Some of the major beneficiaries include the Mole Creek Progress Association, receiving $27,446 for the reopening of the Mole Creek Swimming Pool, and the Whitemore Tennis Club, which was granted $50,000 for a substantial refurbishment, including resurfacing three tennis courts and adding new amenities.
Other noteworthy recipients include the Parkham Community Inc, awarded $25,000 to revitalise St Albans in Parkham, and the Westbury Primary School Parents Association, which received $25,000 to construct an all-weather play shelter for the school’s kindergarten.
Additional funds were distributed to groups such as the Deloraine and Chudleigh Agricultural Societies for new marquees and trailers, Westbury Agricultural Society for driveway rejuvenation, and Arts Deloraine for their Pocket Park Project.
Ms Blandford also praised the commitment of local volunteers, recognising the essential role they play in making these projects possible. “We thank our community members, particularly those volunteers whose dedication and commitment to the local community makes such an impact,” she said.
The financial backing from Community Bank – Deloraine & Districts is expected to drive further community growth, with Ms Blandford stressing the importance of continued local support for the bank branch. “With the community’s continued support of our local bank branch, we will be able to grow our contributions and support even more projects in the future,” she added.
This substantial investment highlights the strength and unity of the Meander Valley, as community groups and organisations work together to enhance the local area for current and future generations.
