Published on Friday, 8 August 2025 at 8:06:00 AM
Council gave the thumbs-up to the Shire’s principal community investment program recently, when they approved the 2025 - 2026 Community Grants Program Budget Allocation at the July Council Meeting.
Council approved Annual Grants and a $70,000 Small Grants program for inclusion in the Annual Budget. This means that Small Grants of up to $3,000 may be applied for throughout the 2025 – 2026 financial year, and that the larger projects supported by community and not for profit organisations will now go ahead.
2025 – 2026 Annual Grant recipients are:
Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation – 2025 Djilba Wildflower Festival. This year’s theme is Flora of the Wetlands, showcasing over 700 local species collected by members of the Esperance Wildflower Society, staff from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), and the Shire of Esperance. Around 3,000 people are expected to attend and 13 schools from the region will be involved in fun and educational activities, helping raise awareness about the region’s unique plant life and why it’s important to protect it.
Esperance Wildlife Sanctuary – Wildlife Emergency Triage Centre, focusing on rescuing and rehabilitating waterbirds by creating a purpose-built triage facility. Objectives are to enhance emergency response capacity, create a training and education hub, and establish a wash-down area, sustainable laundry, improved biosecurity and disease management, and essential volunteer amenities.
Esperance Mechanical Restoration Group – Construction of a 480m2 lockup display shed, and a lean-to attached to an existing shed. Guided by their motto ‘Preserving the Past’, these sheds will provide a larger, secure area for showcasing restored machinery and protect machinery awaiting restoration from the weather.
Esperance Speedway – 2026 SSA National Junior Sedan Title, January next year. Expected to inject $400 to $500,000 into the local economy and predicted to attract up to 100 entrants, this event will be broadcast on the 7 Plus App and will give local junior club members valuable experience while competing in an exciting National Title on their home turf.
Rotary Club of Esperance – Australia Day at Adventureland Park, with involvement from many community organisations as well as a range of food and other stall holders, this inclusive community event draws in locals, families and tourists to witness the Citizenship Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, and enjoy the market, free games, petting farm and music.
Salmon Gums Development Group – Salmon Gums 100th Celebration. Marking 100 years since the townsite was Gazetted, this event will feature market stalls, machinery and displays representing the last century, and bring the wider community together to enjoy a trip down memory lane.
Esperance Chamber of Commerce – Converge Esperance, a business and industry conference aiming to drive ideas, expand networks and build capacity in the regional economy. This conference is timed during winter to support local tourism businesses during the off-season, attracting over 200 attendees, and delivering development workshops across agriculture, retail and tourism, focusing on immediately practical actions and skills.
Esperance Care Services - Fabric Recycling Project, minimising landfill by collecting textile waste from local op shops, processing, baling and transporting to E’Co Pay it Forward in Perth, and by cutting fabric into rags which are sold in 12-15kg bags. Funds will be used to purchase a second rag cutting machine, to cover partial wages, and on various freight costs.
These grants play a vital role in supporting and uplifting our region, providing resources and opportunities that have a far-reaching impact. Whether it's fostering arts, music and culture strengthening social connections, or helping aged care, historic, sporting and youth groups to achieve their goals, the Shire of Esperance Community Grants are a catalyst for positive change.
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