Yarra Valley Water’s community grants help local projects blossom
The grants have been given to projects that help local community groups to be water efficient, improve habitats and educate others to use water wisely.
Managing Director Pat McCafferty said it’s a great opportunity that not only benefits our community but also helps improve the environments we all live in.
‘We know there are so many charities, groups and organisations working hard to improve our community and make a difference and we’re really proud to support the brilliant things they do.”
“Congratulations to all our grant recipients. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact their projects will have on our community,” Mr McCafferty said.
A recipient of this year’s program is Clayton North Primary School. Principal Sue Simadri, said the school was very grateful for the $15,000 grant for its Waterwise Community Garden and Education Initiative.
“We are incredibly thankful for this support from Yarra Valley Water. This grant will be instrumental in enhancing our community garden with cutting-edge water conservation solutions.”
“By implementing a greywater recycling system and planting drought-tolerant species, we aim to significantly reduce our use of drinking water and create a vibrant, sustainable space that benefits both our students and the local community,” Ms Simadri said.
The project will also feature an Intergenerational Gardening Program in collaboration with the local Aged Care Centre, bridging connections between young students and older community members.
A snapshot of four of the 14 initiatives selected is included below.
Span Community House, Darebin
Span Community House is upgrading its community garden’s irrigation system by replacing an old drip system with a new overhead system, enhancing water efficiency and accessibility.
The garden produces food that is shared with the community through relief initiatives and community lunches, and is also used by an all-abilities cooking class.
Friends of Merri Creek, Merribek
Friends of Merri Creek, a dedicated volunteer community group, has secured funding to restore habitats along the Merlynston and Merri Creeks. These creeks support diverse wildlife, including pardalotes, reed warblers, moorhens, eels, and rakali (Australian otters).
The grant supports the group to plant thousands of indigenous shrubs and grasses to enhance biodiversity in the area.
Monbulk Primary School, Monbulk
Monbulk Primary School is creating a Sensory Garden that offers a peaceful retreat and promotes sustainable water practices. The garden will feature indigenous plants, enhancing the school’s ongoing commitment to caring for Country.
Other successful 2024 Community Grants recipients include:
- Yarra Hills Secondary College, Yarra Ranges - for a new water pump, water tank and essential underground piping
- Mitcham Community House, Whitehorse - for a bird feeder, possum box, butterfly feeder and landscaping for habitat restoration
- Eastwood Primary School & Deaf Facility, Ringwood – for a new watering system for its edible Kitchen Garden Program
- Friends of the Platypus, Nillumbik – towards education resources and safety equipment for habitat restoration
- Mont Albert Village, Whitehorse - for a portable water tank for re-planting native vegetation along the rail corridor
- Lalor North Primary School, Lalor - to install a water fountain, water tank and new irrigation system
- Lighthouse Foundation, Maroondah - for a water tank and garden beds
- Mernda Community Garden at Carome Smart, Whittlesea - for a new irrigation system
- Edible Warburton Community, Yarra Ranges - to purchase new rainwater tanks
- Newlands Primary School, Darebin - towards composting systems and garden supplies.
For more information about Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grant program, please visit yvw.com.au/community-grants.