Drought funds benefit energy upgrades

Published on 05 November 2020

Community groups across the Gannawarra are benefiting from energy upgrades supported by the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme – Extension.

Gannawarra Shire Council received $2 million from the program, with Council committing a portion of this funding for energy and water audits and upgrades on eight non-Council owned buildings located throughout the municipality.

Thanks to these audits, Leitchville Bowling Club members are already benefiting from the installation of a new fridge and two split-system air conditioners inside the venue, whilst also now featuring a 5kW solar system and a LED lighting upgrade.

“The renewable energy upgrades means a lot to towards our club, as we would have not been able to afford the changes that have been done to be more energy efficient,” Leitchville Bowling Club secretary, Ken Dehne said.

ABOVE: Solar panels have been installed on the roof of the Leitchville Bowling Club.

Similar works have also occurred to the Kerang Band Hall, home of the Kerang Dance Club, with a new fridge and two split-system air conditioners installed, as well as an LED light upgrade undertaken.

A water tank, located next to the hall, is supplying water to the venue’s toilets, whilst a new switchboard will support the installation of a 5kW solar system, which is to be installed in mid-November.

“The Northern District Dance Association and its members have been very appreciative of the cooperation with Gannawarra Shire Council and staff in providing necessary funding and planning in achieving the upgrade of the Kerang Band Hall,” Northern District Dance Association president, Peter Beet said.

More than 60 projects and initiatives will benefit from funding from this Federal Government program, which aims to provide long-lasting benefits to the community.

“One of the key goals of the Drought Communities Programme – Extension is to support local resources and community spending, and these works will achieve this,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“Council looks forward to seeing the positive outcomes of these two initiatives, as well as the many projects completed and still to be undertaken thanks to this Federal Government funding.”

Details and updates on all projects supported by funding from the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme – Extension is available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/droughtfunding

MAIN PHOTO: Northern District Dance Association representatives Denise Fehring (left), Peter Beet, Max Fehring and Desiree Hebb outside the Kerang Band Hall.