Hindmarsh council will make a $400,000 in-kind contribution to stage two.
“This exciting development will enhance community engagement, provide modern amenities and support local sporting and social events, creating a vibrant and inclusive space for all,” Dr Webster said.
“My hope is projects like this will be the beginning of Mallee getting back its fair share of federal spending.”
Dr Webster said councils across her electorate consistently told her that federal and state government co-funding demands had made it ‘incredibly difficult’ to successfully apply for funding.
The Kaniva project will convert Kaniva Pool’s toddler pool into an all-abilities splash park.
West Wimmera Shire Council committed the remaining cost to make the estimated $1-million redevelopment a reality.
Council previously unsuccessfully applied for $500,000 through the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Fund in 2023.
“I was thrilled to meet with Kaniva College students to share the exciting news. These wonderful children and future community leaders spoke confidently in front of us all about their joy at having more to do at the pool thanks to a splash park,” Dr Webster said.
The project will replace the under-utilised toddler pool with a modern, inclusive all abilities waterplay splash park space.
West Wimmera Mayor Tim Meyer said the commitment was fantastic news.
“This is something we have been advocating for over a long period. A splash park will provide a much-needed recreational facility for families and enhance Kaniva’s appeal as a place to live,” he said.
Council is also investigating the feasibility of a broader redevelopment of Kaniva Memorial Swimming Pool, which would include upgrades to amenities, accessibility improvements and enhancements to the pool infrastructure to ensure it remains a valuable asset.
The $1-million in accessibility upgrades to public amenities at ‘The Mecca’ public hall in Rainbow will fund most of the estimated $1.15-million project, ensuring the facilities meet Disability Discrimination Act standards.
The project will add a new DDA-compliant all-abilities facility in the former council customer service building with direct access from Federal Street, refurbish male and female public amenities to improve accessibility and safety and construct a compliant access ramp leading to the Mecca supper and meeting rooms.
Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay said an upgrade was desperately needed.
“The current toilets are an embarrassment to the community and shire,” he said.
In Beulah on Thursday, Dr Webster joined Yarriambiack Shire and community representatives at the multi-purpose Beulah Business and Information Centre to announce a $1.392-million election pledge for a new supermarket, adding to $130,000 already fundraised by the community.
The supermarket was destroyed by fire in 2019 – a temporary site has been used since.
The entire March 19, 2025 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!
