2008 Ararat Sustainable Communities Fund Now Open

Pacific Hydro's Sustainable Communities Fund opened today (May 5) with a call for applications from organisations working in the Ararat Rural City.

Teacher Kris Hughes from Jack and Jill Kindergarten, a group who received a grant through the program in 2007 said she was "ecstatic" when Pacific Hydro told them of their success last year and encouraged other organisations to consider applying this year.

"Before we received the grant we had been raising funds for 15 years to upgrade our playground", explained Ms Hughes. "When we heard about the Fund we thought we'd have just as much chance as any other group and look how it turned out."

Jack and Jill Kindergarten were one of 17 local community organisations who received funds in 2007. Their grant enabled the completion of their playground consisting of a rock section that includes a tunnel and cave, a link from the boardwalk to a new clatter bridge and construction of edging around a swing frame for safety as well as a rock pool.

"It has been absolutely brilliant to see our plans come to fruition", said Ms Hughes.

The Sustainable Communities Fund provides grants for local organisations working to make a positive and lasting contribution to their community. The program provides grants for projects in the areas of Health, Education, the Arts and Sports and is available for the life of Pacific Hydro's Challicum Hills Wind Farm.

Since its launch, the Sustainable Communities Fund has supported over 40 community projects in the Ararat Rural City Area including the Ararat Land Care Group, Willaura Cricket Club, the Elmhurst Playgroup and the Lake Bolac Eel Festival.

"The Sustainable Communities Fund is available to all community groups and organisations working to make a positive and lasting contribution in the Ararat Rural City area", said Communications Manager Emily Wood.

"While it is never possible to fund every application, we take into account local community priorities when shortlisting and allocating funding. Organisations and community groups who provide programs that support a sustainable and cohesive community are encouraged to apply."

The Sustainable Communities Fund provides grants totalling around $50,000 each year in the Ararat Rural City.

Application forms along with the program guidelines and further information are available on Pacific Hydro's website www.pacifichydro.com.au/fund or by calling Community Fund Coordinator Chloe Carpenter on 03 8621 6428. The application period closes Monday 16th June 2008.