The Victorian Government has announced a $500,000 Community Development Fund grant for the Yarra Ranges Council to help deliver jobs and economic growth to the region.
Victorian Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence announced the grant on 4 June to help the council progress its Upper Yarra Local Development Strategy Project, which will help assist the development of the Warburton, Yarra Junction and Powelltown communities.
Innovation Working Groups (IWG) have been established to explore fresh opportunities in tourism, small-scale farming, micro abattoirs, renewable energy and improvements in buildings and transport – helping the Yarra Ranges thrive and build a more sustainable future.
In addition, the Council will use the funding to upskill community members so they can implement those opportunities.
The Energy Resilience and Renewable Energy IWG was successful in helping the Powelltown Sporting Group receive a grant from the government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteries program.
A battery system will be installed at the sporting pavilion, ensuring up to 72 hours of back-up power during outages and emergencies, and supporting the viability of sporting clubs and local health initiatives.
Minister Spence said, “We understand the value of these grants and the meaningful impact they have on our communities, which is why we’re investing in the Yarra Ranges to help the council plan for a better and more sustainable future.”
Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, said, “These grants will support local initiatives such as community transport services, making it easier for residents to move and be connected to their communities.”
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Jim Childs, said that he is absolutely thrilled that Council has been able to receive additional funding from the State Government to support communities in the Upper Yarra.
“I’d like to thank them for their ongoing support, and our community led Innovation Working Groups for their fantastic work so far,” Mayor Childs said.
“We’re investigating local projects such as community transport options to help visitors and residents get around, repurposing abandoned buildings, and ensuring the Powelltown community has backup power in emergencies.”
