BANDON Grove School of Arts has been announced as one of just 13 successful recipients of the inaugural Essential Energy Community Grants Program.
The program, which received more than 670 applications, provides up to $15,000 for not-for-profit organisations delivering projects that promote environmental sustainability, education, community resilience, or energy transition in regional and remote communities.
The grant will go towards the installation of an “islandable” solar and battery system at the Bandon Grove community hall, ensuring backup power to critical circuits such as refrigeration, water, and the internet during emergencies.
This is expected to significantly strengthen the region’s disaster preparedness and overall community resilience.
Built in 1901 on donated land with funds raised by locals, the Bandon Grove School of Arts has long served as a vital community meeting place.
It continues to be a hub for events, expert briefings on bushfire and flood risk, and is a registered Community Fire Unit site.
The hall also houses a 24-hour accessible defibrillator.
“Being selected out of such a large pool of applicants is a huge honour,” said Joshua Morgan from the hall committee.
“This grant not only helps reduce environmental impact and running costs but also enhances the hall’s critical role during natural disasters.”
Essential Energy’s Head of Sustainability Sophie Cruickshank, said the organisation is proud to back grassroots efforts.
“These grants are about supporting real, lasting change, where it’s needed most,” she said.
The Bandon Grove School of Arts committee expressed deep gratitude to Essential Energy for supporting their vision for a stronger, safer, and more sustainable community hub.
By Shannon BENTON
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