The 2026 round of Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants has been awarded to nine community groups who will share in a combined $90,550 over the next three years to help deliver a range of community projects and events.
The funding was available across three categories: Tourism, Economic Development and Climate Change.
The successful community projects and events include:
- Inverleigh Sporting Complex - $8,875 to support a complex kitchen upgrade.
- Bannockburn Cricket Club - $23,000 to support the Bannockburn Cricket Club Infrastructure Design Development.
- Linton & District Bowling Club - $15,000 to support the Green Replacement Program.
- Ross Creek Landcare Group - $12,000 (over three years) to support expanding Woody Weed Control in Ross Creek and Smythes Creek.
- Dereel Craft Group - $8,695 (over three years) to support the Dereel Community Art Networking Project.
- Cressy Working Sheep Dog Club - $2,000 for a PA system for events.
- Leigh District Landcare Group - $3,600 (over three years) to support the Annual Leigh Landcare Forum.
- Ballarat Kart Club Inc - $14,180 to support the Ballarat Kart Club State Cup Infrastructure Upgrade.
- Bannockburn & District Lions Club - $3,200 to support the Just a Farmer Community Screening.
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey said the projects awarded in 2026 will deliver several community benefits.
It’s fantastic to see funding from the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Program being invested back into local communities. These grants help community groups deliver projects that enhance local facilities, foster social connection and create positive outcomes for residents of all ages, Cr Sharkey said.
Congratulations to all grant recipients. The successful projects reflect the passion, creativity and dedication of local community groups that work tirelessly to make our region a better place to live, work and visit. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have across our communities.
Delivered in partnership with Berrybank Wind Farm, the Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Program provides crucial funding opportunities to support local events and projects in Golden Plains. Applications were open from 1 May until 1 June 2026.
The Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Committee, comprising representatives from Berrybank Wind Farm, Golden Plains Shire Council and local community members, advises on grant criteria, evaluates applications and recommends project for Council support.
There will be a minimum of one round of application opportunities each year and funding will be made available over the 15-year term of the agreement between Council and Berrybank Wind Farm.