The grass is greener (and shorter) for Outback Exploratorium after grant success!
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Posted on September 19, 2023
Emerald’s Outback Exploratorium, a STEAM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) discovery space that encourages hands on learning, is celebrating after their recent success with round 1 of the Central Highland Regional Council (CHRC) community grants program in 2023.
Since moving from their original premises on Hospital Road to the former Kaesbie Gardens site, in October 2022, the team discovered that one downside to the increasingly popular STEAM landscape – was the actual landscape!
‘As a charity, all funds are raised though grant applications, sponsorship and donations or fundraising events,’ says Samantha Elsden, Executive Officer of the Outback Exploratorium.
‘Since moving to the new premises, we have relied on our volunteers to use their own tools to maintain the grounds. It was so nice to show the volunteers how much we appreciate them by being able to give them brand new, easy to use equipment,’ Mrs Elsden continued.
The grant of $4,512 has allowed a new John Deer Lawn Tractor as well as a line trimmer to be purchased from local businesses.
‘The lawn is a beautiful space between the outdoor area and the workshop room,’ she continued.
As well as kids school holiday activities, the lawn area serves as a space for events and gatherings, so these new pieces of equipment will trim hours off what has previously been a very laborious job.
‘Bookings are currently coming in fast for Christmas parties, and a number of exciting STEAM, education and tourism opportunities are being explored so we are thankful to have the ability to maintain the area and utilise such a wonderful community asset,’ said Mrs Elsden.
Council’s community grants assist groups and organisations who make positive impacts on our region to undertake projects that they may otherwise not be able to do. There are 3 categories that groups can apply under, and the latest round of grants closed on 31 August. The successful recipients will be notified in October.
To see the last round of grant recipients and learn more about the assessment panel and judging criteria, click here.
If you have any enquiries, please contact council on 1300 242 686.