Community
17 July, 2024
Local projects secure Tiny Towns funding
FROM small things, big things can grow.
Two local projects received funding under the state government’s Tiny Towns Fund.
The program’s first round is bringing to life more than 180 projects in rural and regional towns, and more than 20 projects in outer metropolitan towns bordering the regions, each with less than 5000 residents.
The successful projects celebrate the community’s local spirit and it is hoped the projects will drive visitation to the towns.
Locally, Alderwood Manor in Cobden received $50,000 towards the ‘Alderwood Manor Sustainability Project’ and Simpson and District Community Centre received $15,000 for art in Jaycees Park.
Simpson and District Community Centre co-ordinator Debra Smith said she was “very excited about the grant”.
“We will be getting a couple of ‘cowches’ (fibreglass seats shaped as cows) for Jaycees Park and a kangaroo and koala blank sculptures, which will be painted,” she said.
“Locals will be invited to paint a square/shape on either animal representing why they came here or what they love about it, then all those mini artworks will be bordered with dot work by local Indigenous artist Emma Koplick then clear coated for protection.
“The purpose will be to try and create something visual that people passing through will stop for and take photos, maybe buy a coffee or a meal while they are stopped.”
Alderwood Manor’s Chelsea Hatherall welcomed the funding announcement.
“The Alderwood Sustainability project is about addressing access concerns while we expand,” she said.
Ms. Hatherall said the successful Tiny Towns grant will allow the not-for-profit venue to upgrade its facilities to include ambulant and disabled access toilets.
“It will also include the fitout of a “green room” which will allow the space to attract more diverse performers (who need costume change etc),” she said.
The Tiny Towns Fund is part of a $45 billion investment in projects and programs to support regional Victoria.
Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney helped announce the $20 million Tiny Towns Fund.
“We’re helping our tiniest towns reach their full potential with so many community-driven projects that will upgrade local facilities and encourage more visitors to Victoria’s vibrant regions,” she said.