Five community projects will share $25,000 through the City of Mount Gambier's Community 150 Celebratory Fund, supporting local initiatives that recognise the city's 150th anniversary through creativity, storytelling and community connection.
The funding program was established as part of Council's anniversary celebrations, inviting local organisations to deliver inclusive and accessible projects that celebrate Mount Gambier's history while creating lasting community benefits.
The successful projects:
- Mount Gambier Agricultural and Horticultural Society will receive $5,000 to incorporate a special anniversary component into the 164th Mount Gambier Spring Show, expected to attract more than 11,000 attendees.
- Blue Lake Gymnastics Club will receive $5,000 to host a special anniversary gymnastics competition recognising the city's milestone year alongside the club's 30th anniversary.
- Limestone Coast LEGO Users Group will receive $5,000 to create a collaborative LEGO mosaic celebrating 150 years of Mount Gambier, which will be publicly displayed and reused in future years.
- Thumbprint Collective will receive $5,000 to develop a collection of original artworks recognising inspiring women throughout the city's history, culminating in a public launch event.
- Mount Gambier Children's Centre will receive $5,000 for Little Voices, Big History: Mount Gambier Through Children's Eyes, a project focused on storytelling, intergenerational learning and a community exhibition.
City of Mount Gambier General Manager People, Place and Liveability Chris White said the strong response highlighted the community's enthusiasm for celebrating the milestone anniversary.
"This fund was designed to support community-led ideas and it is fantastic to see organisations developing initiatives that will help tell local stories, celebrate shared achievements and bring people together," Mr White said.
Council received seven applications under the fund, with five projects recommended for funding following assessment.
Mr White said the successful projects reflected the creativity and passion of local organisations.
"One of the strengths of this anniversary program is that it belongs to the community."
"These initiatives will help ensure people of all ages can take part in commemorating this important milestone while preserving and sharing what makes Mount Gambier unique."
