The Macedon and Mount Macedon Community Centre is one of the first recipients of a grant from the state government’s Tiny Towns Fund.
The $20 million fund offers grants to projects in small rural and outer metropolitan towns with fewer than 5000 residents.
Regional Development Minister Gayle Tierney and Macedon MP visited the Macedon Ranges on June 26 to announce the funding program.
to projects in small rural and outer metropolitan towns with fewer than 5000 residents.
Grants of up to $50,000 will be offered to sports clubs, community and non-profit groups, and councils for community-driven projects.
The announcement event was emceed by Macedon and Mount Macedon committee member and incorporated not-for-profit association founder Karen Goltz
The community house received a grant of $38,840 for its garden, which is maintained by volunteers and will act as a community capacity building project and a site for horticulture and permaculture education.
Ms Tierney said that investing in community houses is important because they serve as a hub for residents.
“They’re a point of where you can gather in a community. They’re almost like a beacon or a signpost for people if they are wanting to get really active and get to know their community better,” Ms Tierney said.
“If they want projects undertaken, there are other people that are like minded to get those done … there are a myriad of issues that can be pursued within community houses or neighbourhood houses.”
Other recipients of the first round of grants in the Macedon Ranges included Lancefield Park Recreation Reserve Committee for upgrades to the BMX track, Macedon Ranges Halls for upgrades to Laurieston Community Hall, and Malmsbury Fire Brigade for a visitor and community information screen.
Oscar Parry
