Wycheproof Vision formally known as Wycheproof 2000 this week received a funding boost from rural and regional grants program, Seeds of Renewal.

Funded by ANZ and independently administered by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR), Seeds of Renewal this year has provided grants to 60 projects that help strengthen community enterprise.

Wycheproof Vision’s ‘Rent a Farmhouse’ project was one of 544 applications received this year.

FRRR Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Admans said: “We’ve been completely overwhelmed with the interest generated by the program this year.  While we are unfortunately not able to provide grants to everyone, we focused on projects that will assist in the wellbeing and growth of local communities.”

Wycheproof Vision has received funding for a town development project which aims to attract new families to the area by offering empty and run down farmhouses for lease at $1 per week, for up to three years.  In return the families will renovate the property and contribute to community life.  The project aims to lease up to 12 houses and attract in excess of 60 new residents to the small Mallee town and provide direct benefit to local community organisations, businesses and schools.

Project Co-ordinator Kylie Brown, said: “We are very thankful to receive this support from the Seeds of Renewal program and we applaud the vision the FRRR has shown by supporting this innovative program. Now we will be able to prepare more farmhouses for the program by purchasing essential items such as water and septic tanks.  It will be wonderful to see these houses have new life in them and to have so many new families join our community.”

ANZ Wycheproof Relieving Branch Manager, Sarah Gawler said: “We are committed to supporting our local community in the good times and the more challenging times. We trust this grant will provide Wycheproof Vision with the boost they need to kick start their project.”

Photo opportunity

What: Kylie Brown and Ann Durie from Wycheproof Vision and ANZ Wycheproof staff Wendy Vearing and Cathie Hobbs

When and where: to be advised, contact Wendy Vearing or Cathie Hobbs on 03 5493 7344.

 

Seeds of Renewal is in its seventh year and has issued more than $2.3 million to 530 small community projects during this time.