Ararat Rural City Council has awarded $20,628 to eight community organisations in the final Community Support Grants round for 2026, supporting projects spanning local events, music, inclusive sport and improvements to community activities and services.
The September/October round attracted 12 applications, with all eight successful applicants receiving the full amount requested. The program supports community organisations to deliver projects and events that provide measurable community benefits, with applicants contributing through cash or in-kind support.
Ararat Rural City Council Chief Executive Officer Phuong Au congratulated the recipients and acknowledged the work behind their projects. “Our community organisations put considerable time and effort into creating opportunities for people to participate, connect and contribute,” Ms Au said. “We congratulate all successful applicants and thank the volunteers and members whose commitment will bring these projects to life.”
The successful recipients are:
- Ararat Car Club – $5,000 to support the King of the Hill Climb event.
- Ararat City Band Inc. – $1,540 to modernise administrative systems and digital archiving, including volunteer records and secure storage of its extensive music library.
- Ararat Interested Parties – $1,578 to purchase portable equipment and event signage to support performances in a range of locations, including summer events.
- Ararat Men’s Shed – $3,000 to improve its front entrance, purchase member T-shirts and acquire three vacuum cleaners to support workshop cleanliness and safety.
- Grampians Soaring Club – $3,000 to install a reliable Wi-Fi network and battery backup system across its clubhouse, operations building and main hangar.
- Moyston Progress Association – $510 to install a Snapshot Sign providing clear and welcoming information for visitors entering the township.
- WestVic Academy of Sport – $3,000 to deliver the Ararat Para Sport Discovery Day 2027, providing local opportunities for people with disability, with any equipment purchased to remain within the municipality for ongoing community use.
- Wimmera Mallee Umpires Association – $3,000 to purchase electronic communication systems supporting teamwork, decision-making and game management for football umpires.
Ms Au said the range of funded projects reflected the different ways community organisations contribute to local life. “Each organisation has identified something that will help it better serve its members or the wider community,” she said. “We look forward to seeing these projects take shape and the benefits they deliver for local people.”
