Four local Walpole groups benefit from unique grant

Collaboration between Water Corporation, a share-farm partner, the Shire of Manjimup and a group of enthusiastic local farmers has resulted in $6,000 being raised for the Walpole community.

The opportunity arose when local farmers harvested hay growing on Water Corporation land in Walpole and a portion was sold to raise money for the community.

“We thought re-investing the money back into the community was a great idea,” said Water Corporation’s Great Southern Regional Manager Adrian Stewart. “Once the Shire of Manjimup offered their existing grants process, we were able to channel the funds through their scheme for Walpole-based applicants.”

In October, the Shire of Manjimup announced three Walpole community groups plus a local school were successful applicants of the funding, which was divided into four equal parts of $1,500 each.

Ficifolia Community Garden Inc. received funding to go towards the upgrading of their stage area, while the Walpole Nornalup and District Historical Society Inc. has received a boost to their enterprise in the development, production and printing of local history books. The Walpole Sport and Recreation Centre will use their share to host a celebration event for the 21st birthday of the Centre, as well as ongoing running costs for the Centre.

Walpole Primary School P&C also received a grant towards a new nature-based playground for the school. Principal Chris Cook said that while the $1,500 won’t quite cover the cost of the entire project, it would be a very good start.

“We’ve been planning our new playground for a while, so the funding has come at a good time,” said Ms Cook.

“One of our teachers, Lisa Teague-Robertson has been enthusatically driving the project and has some great ideas we look forward to putting in place, including a new rock bed with a water pump.”

The ManukaLife share-farm project has progressed since the hay was harvested, with a section of land planted with tea trees in July this year. No more activity will occur now for around two years.

Mr Stewart said Water Corporation would continue to carefully manage the remainder of the land within the catchment, to ensure the best possible water quality for the community.

Anyone interested in further updates on ManukaLife in Walpole can find the latest information on the project page at:

https://www.watercorporation.com.au/water-supply/ongoing-works/walpole-manukalife