Stories

New HPV apparel for Epsom Primary School

The Epsom Primary School is preparing to begin full human powered vehicle (HPV) racing in 2021, competing in 3 events. The school has a second-hand vehicle and will use the $2,000 grant to purchase footwear, team uniforms and equipment to participate in the 2021 events. The HPV project is aimed at developing the students design, collaboration, health, fitness and community engagement skills.

Replacement of old for new at White Hills Bowls Club

White Hills Bowls club will benefit from the recent BNDCE investment of $2,000 for the purchase of new club crockery and cutlery for use at club events. The club can use this new kitchenware for club events and when hiring out their facilities.

Bendigo Bricks Club to purchase a shade shelter, LEGO bricks, tables and tubs for use at events

BNDCE is proud to support Bendigo Bricks club to become a mobile service at community events. The club was successful in receiving a $2,000 grant to purchase a shade marquee, LEGO bricks, tables and tubs that would allow them attend community events and share their passion and expertise for LEGO construction. The Bendigo Brick club supported the Huntly Family Fun Day in 2020, with a hands-on LEGO construction stand on the day for young children to participate. This will be the type of community event they can now confidently attend.

A ride-on cricket pitch roller Huntly North Epsom Cricket Club

Huntly North Epsom Cricket Club was successful in receiving funding of $2,000 towards the purchase of a ride-on cricket pitch roller for their club. Pitch maintenance is a very time-consuming task for club volunteers. This new ride-on roller allows for professional preparation of the pitch without the heavy physical labour that was required in the past.

A new computer for the Bendigo Squadron of the Australian Air League

The Air League is keen to develop a greater membership whereby cadets connect with the community, develop education, friendship and camaraderie amongst the youth within our community. $500 was granted to assist them to purchase a new computer and run a membership drive.

Purchase of a shade shelter and banners for the Flames Junior Netball Club

Flames players and families will benefit from the recent BNDCE investment of $1,478 for the purchase of two shade marquees and banner for use on registration days, training, NetSetGo break-ups and selection days. These marquees will replace the need for families to bring private shades for club events and will provide a SunSmart safe environment for participating families.

Huntly Fire Brigade now has Electronic safety messaging

BNDCE has provided a grant of $3,000 to assist with the purchase and installation of an LED community safety messaging sign at the new Huntly Fire Brigade facility. Messages could include Total Fire Ban, Fire Warnings, Annual Smoke Alarm reminders and educational messages. Residents of Huntly and surrounding areas will benefit from up-to-date reminders and alerts. The sign will be facing the Midland Highway, be easily readable while passing the fire station and will operate day and night.

White Hills Primary School Energy Breakthrough Team

BNDCE has provided funding of $1,000 to allow the students to compete in the energy breakthrough competitions.

The team provided the committee with a visual presentation of the break through project and the components involved for all team members.

The program is about more than just the cars. Teams develop their own plans to source sponsorship, providing students with personal development opportunities. The team worked hard together to improve their efficiency and stamina to complete the challenge.

New Readers for Epsom Primary School

Bendigo Northern District Community Enterprise has provided $2,830 to assist the school to purchase new readers for the junior school.

Readers within schools are a commodity that become worn out and tired. BNDCE were very pleased to assist the school community in replacing these important literacy tools.

Junior Cricket Club Apparel & Equipment

The Huntly Nth Bendigo Epsom Junior Cricket club approached BNDCE for funding ($2,500) to assist with the purchase of additional apparel and equipment.

BNDCE were able to support the club in purchasing the new coloured apparel. The increased number of junior participants also required the purchase of further equipment.

A new security system for Huntly Fire Brigade!

The Huntly Fire Brigade provides an important community service to our local area. Following the recent fire station build between Huntly and Epsom, BNDCE were advised they required a surveillance system to protect the facilities and equipment at the station.

$3,000 was used to purchase a high definition surveillance system, which will help protect a valuable community asset.

Hot Water for Huntly Memorial Hall Committee!

BNDCE has provided funding of $2,000 to allow the hall committee to install an instant electric hot water service to meet OH&S requirements.

The new hot water service has been installed in the kitchen to improve safety for those serving hot tea and coffee at functions in the hall.

St Clements Anglican Church Future Play Space

The St Clements Anglican Church approached BNDCE for funding ($2,000) to assist with the construction of a boundary fence for a future play space.

The church community has a vision for a local playground within their church precinct. The fence will be to separate the play space from the footpath and enclose the imaginative play area.

Making friends through music at Vision Australia

Vision Australia provides an important community service to our local area. They provide a safe and supported meeting place for the vision impaired.

As part of their social networking program $800 was provided to enable the purchase of drum circle equipment and training. This enables participation and enjoyment by clients while building their confidence.

Equipment for future stars!

The Bendigo Northern Flames Junior Netball club approached BNDCE for funding to assist with the purchase of additional team kits and match day balls.

The grant has enabled the club to purchase additional team kits due to the increased participation of players. Purchases also included match day balls for each club team.

A grand opening event at Epsom PS!

The Epsom Primary School community will soon celebrate the exciting completion of the brand new building facilities by hosting a grand opening event.

Students at the school are encouraged to be leaders in their community and BNDCE received an application from a grade 5 student outlining plans for a community opening event to showcase their new school.

BNDCE were pleased to provide $1,150 to help fund this initiative and enable the community to share this new facility. So look out for this upcoming community event.

Let the girls play – North Bendigo Women’s Football

North Bendigo Football Netball Club – Friends of North Bendigo were the worthy recipient of a recent grant for $2,000 to establish a women’s football program.

The grant enabled women of various age groups to be provided with uniforms and equipment for season 2018. In the past these women have been playing with second hand gear so the new uniform will improve their image and confidence whilst assisting to increase female participation.

Since the inaugural women’s competition commenced in country Victoria there are now more women’s teams within the local Bendigo area.

Light up our heroes!

In 2013 BNDCE provided funding to assist the Huntly Memorial Hall Committee to restore the magnificent wood carved statues in the garden of remembrance. Following this previous project BNDCE have provided $2,500 to illuminate the statues making them visible at night thus enhancing their appearance and increase public awareness.

The statues are an important reminder of the lives lost by our local men and women that must not be forgotten.

BNDCE are a proud supporter of the annual Anzac Day Service hosted by the Huntly Memorial Hall Committee in Huntly.

Education for Sports Clubs

Sport & Life Training (SALT) deliver quality education, culture and leadership sessions into sporting clubs. SALT uses trained and experienced teachers who understand the context of sporting club culture.

Because society has a range of issues – such as drug and alcohol abuse, violence, discrimination and mental illness within our culture, SALT approached BNDCE for funding to offer education to sporting clubs in our corridor.

BNDCE provided $2,000 to fund this important initiative to assist our young sportspersons navigate some of these social issues.

The Bendigo Northern Flames Junior Netball club recently participated in SALT’s Strong is the new Pretty workshop. Examples of women in the AFLW competition were used to inspire strength and good decision making.

Uniforms for the team!

BNDCE have helped Special Olympics Bendigo to develop a sense of belonging by providing $1,000 for uniforms and accessories to strengthen that feeling of being part of a team.

The grant allowed the purchase of tracksuits and accessories for the Special Olympics Bendigo Swimming and Ten Pen Bowling athletes. The dragon design was incorporated on the tracksuits to represent Bendigo.

Back to Bagshot!

Historically reunions are an important aspect of community and culture. Bagshot recently hosted a “back to” to celebrate 150 years at the Bagshot School No 852 (opened in 1867). Former pupils, past and present residents attended the day with displays of memorabilia and BBQ lunch provided.

Photographs of past pupils present on the day were taken as a record of attendance.

BNDCE provided $868 to fund a new microphone and assist with catering on the day.

White Hills Community Open Air Cinema

Schools play an important purpose in bringing communities together in a positive and social environment.

Funding of $500 was provided by BNDCE to support White Hills Primary School to host an affordable Open Air Cinema Night helping to bring families together.

Junior Citizenship Award

In 2016, Epsom Primary School introduced a new Junior Citizenship Award to recognise emerging leaders in the junior school.

The school is focusing on providing opportunities for junior students to learn new leadership and life skills and to inspire them to be part of their community and actively seek to make a positive change to the future.

To allow for ongoing recognition of these junior leaders, the primary school approached BNDCE to fund the purchase of a new honor board which will be placed in the foyer of the new school.

A new Indigenous garden

The Huntly Primary School applied for a grant to re-develop the indigenous garden to create a useful and meaningful space which can be used to connect and come together with our Koori community.

The garden will provide a large meeting place with socially interactive seating. The garden will also incorporate some artwork around the Koori culture.

Equipment for future stars!

The Huntly Junior Football club approached BNDCE for funding to assist with the purchase of additional safety and training equipment.

The grant has enabled the club to update safety equipment as well as purchase training equipment. The purchase of a new stretcher and neck collar ensures safety of injured players. The new tackle and ruck bags allow players to safely practice these important game skills.

A new fire resistant demonstration garden!

The Huntly Fire Brigade provides an important community service to our local area. The brigade are thrilled to have recently opened the new purpose built fire station on the Midland Highway between Huntly and Epsom.

As part of the new development the brigade had a vision to construct a fire resistant community demonstration garden that can be used to assist community members in selecting fire resistant plants and landscaping strategies for their own properties.

BNDCE provided $2,000 to fund this initiative and enable the brigade to realise this part of their community fire prevention and safety strategy.

Enabling remote broadcasting!

Fresh FM was the worthy recipient of a recent grant for $800 allowing local football broadcast in remote locations.

BNDCE was pleased to assist Fresh FM with the grant to assist the station to broadcast from football grounds where there is no fixed phone line. The new internet card increases their ability to broadcast from a wider range of locations.

Fresh FM 101.5 broadcasts from Bendigo, Heathcote, Loddon Valley, Maryborough-Castlemaine, North Central leagues which offers a great service to the greater Bendigo community and districts allowing more people to keep in touch with local footy

Club House Maintenance

BNDCE has provided funding of $1,000 to allow the Bendigo Obedience Dog Club to paint and renovate their club house building.

The improvements make the area more attractive for club members and the general public while meeting council requirements.

Developing Junior Watchers in our Community

Bendigo Northern District Community Enterprise has provided $500 to assist the Epsom Ascot Neighbourhood Watch Committee to bring the Junior Watcher Activity book and program to the local primary schools.

This booklet is an educational tool to increase children’s awareness and understanding of neighbourhood safety.

Safer play for Flames Junior Netballers

As a new club, the Bendigo Northern Flames Junior Netball Club applied for a grant to improve safety at their club training sessions at Epsom Reserve.

BNDCE was able to provide $1,000 of funding for goal post padding to ensure juniors are better protected at training sessions.

Funds to keep Bagshot community active

Bagshot Badminton Club meet weekly for a social gathering and have a hit of badminton, an important aspect for their local community.

Funding of $279.90 was provided by BNDCE to purchase additional badminton equipment, including racquets and shuttles.

Exciting Special Developmental School Sensory Garden Upgrade

The Special Developmental School (SDS) is a facility that services all students and their families in the Bendigo region. Lord Somers applied for funding OF $1,000 to support their volunteer community program. The funding request was to complete a project to refresh and upgrade the sensory garden at SDS. The original garden had become tired and outdated.

Lord Somers volunteers provided the manpower to participate in a weekend blitz to construct and complete the sensory garden upgrade for the students. The works included some quiet areas, new plants, refreshed garden beds, paving and sensory mobiles. This allows the SDS students areas for quiet reflection and small group activities as well as enjoying the aesthetic values of being outside.

New website for Flames Junior Netball Club

The Bendigo Northern Flames is a new Junior Netball Club, providing the opportunity for young participants to play netball.

As part of developing the new club, the committee recognised the need for a website which would provide a platform to advertise the club, communicate information about events and competition and training details. The website would allow the club to reach out to families in the wider northern district communities.

BNDCE were pleased to support the Flames in their endeavours to establish their new club by providing a grant for $1,000 to establish a new club website.

Improvements at Goornong Swimming Pool great for young & old!

Goornong Community Swimming pool were the worthy recipients of a recent grant for $288 to make improvements to their swimming facilities.

There wish was to provide adequate seating for pool patrons and update swimming aids toys and equipment to encourage young and old to actively participate in swimming.

This project has made a large difference to the visitors experience at the Goornong Community Swimming pool!

Vision Australia - socialisation and recreation activities!

The Vision Australia Day Centre provides socialisation and recreation activities for people with low vision or blindness who are socially isolated.

The funding of $490 from BNDCE allowed the purchase of an Xbox Kinect and musical instruments which has encouraged the participation of clients. The friendly Xbox competition allows improved social interaction promoting movement and fun, giving clients a sense of purpose and enjoyment.

Vision Australia runs regular singalongs and the clients love being able to play the musical instruments.

Epsom Community Church - improvements for the pre-school room!

BNDCE has provided funding of $1,000 to allow the church to provide a usable space for children’s program’s running at the Epsom Community Church – Mainly Music, Sunday School and MOPS programs.

The grant was used to improve storage for children’s toys and craft supplies, create a chalkboard wall and provide a fresh colourful décor for all to enjoy.

New Fence for White Hills Reserve Playground

Following the funding for the installation of the children’s playground at the White Hills Recreation Reserve, BNDCE has provided additional funds of $2,000 for a fence to surround the play area.

The new fence will provide a safer play environment for all families who use the reserve, including those families involved with the football netball club, cricket club, visiting teams and local residents.

Improved storage for Sandhurst Hockey Club

To further improve their storage facility, BNDCE was able to assist the Sandhurst Hockey club with funding of $1,000 for shelving and storage containers.

This storage and containers has assisted to centrally store all equipment which has improved access to equipment for all teams as well as to better protect gear against damage.

Huntly Kindergarten - Staying Dry Outfits - Jackets, Bibs & Braces

Huntly Kindergarten was the worthy recipient of a grant for $1,000 to purchase all weather outfits for attending children, which included jacket, bib & braces sets to wear during their Bush Kinder sessions. These outfits enabled the children to participate in Bush Kinder in all types of weather. Children get to learn, experiment and create in a healthy outdoor setting which encourages active education. The grant has helped enable this fabulous initiative to flourish.

Epsom Playgroup - Sensory Play Equipment

BNDCE were pleased to assist the Epsom Playgroup with much needed new sensory play equipment when they moved premises from the Maternal Health Care site to the Epsom/Huntly Soccer Fields Facility. The young children are able to enjoy building with the giant blocks or play and create with the new sensory sand table and equipment, while parents can use this time interacting and supporting each other.

Bendigo Animal Welfare - A roof for outdoor laundry area

The Bendigo Animal Welfare Community service is assisted by volunteers who help with the animals while cleaning and maintaining the facilities and equipment. BNDCE was able to assist in further improving the facilities with a $900 grant toward having a roof installed over the laundry/wash area so the volunteers can wash under cover and shade during the various seasons of the year.

Bendigo Field & Game - Solar Panels

Bendigo Field & Game were successful recipients of a $1000 grant towards improving their facility with solar panels to reduce their carbon footprint and reduce overheads for users of the premises.

Northern Bendigo Landcare Group & Huntly Hall Committee - Whirrakee Wattle Interactive Sign

Northern Bendigo Landcare Group & Huntly Hall Committee were successful recipients of $1,000 towards an interactive sign to inform locals and visitors about the significance and meaning of the Whirrakee Wattle to the Huntly local area. The sign is to be situated next to the Whirrakee Wattle statue placed next to the Huntly Hall by the Greater City of Bendigo as a replacement for the historical statement that Huntly was ‘the Home of the Whirrakee Wattle’.

Huntly Primary School - BBQ and Landscaping

BNDCE was pleased to assist Huntly Primary School in their development of an Outdoor Educational area which was to be completed in stages, comprising of seating, a BBQ, paving and landscaping. BNDCE supported the project by investing $1,000 in the building of the BBQ which can be used by the school and community for social and educational purposes. The Huntly Primary School community will be able to enjoy the benefits of this improvement to their facilities for many years to come.

Bendigo Obedience Dog Club - Equipment Trailer

Bendigo Obedience Dog Club assist many dog owners throughout the region by teaching people skills in the training of their animals. The club was successful in receiving a BNDCE grant for $600 to custom build a purpose made trailer to hold equipment required for training and special display events. The trailer makes it possible to store all equipment in one place and is easily transported to required locations.

Wood Carved Statues Restored

A BNDCE grant has assisted the Huntly Memorial Hall Committee to restore wood carved statues bringing them back to their former beauty.

The pine wooden statues of a Soldier, Sailor, Airman and Nurse on display in the “Garden of Remembrance” memorial in Huntly were showing signs of significant deterioration, so much so that the carvings needed to be removed and placed in storage to protect them from further damage.

Funds from the BNDCE have assisted the committee to engage a specialist timber restorer to restore the carvings, allowing the statues to be back out on display for all to enjoy!

Huntly Football Netball Club Netball Scoreboard

Huntly Football Netball Club has installed two new scoreboards beside their netball courts at Strauch Reserve, thanks to a community grant provided by BNDCE.

The grant has contributed towards the cost of production and installation of the two new scoreboards, one each for the two courts which did not have scoreboards courtside. The new scoreboards include magnetic numbers which are safer and easier for volunteers to use.

Players, administrators and spectators will now have a more positive experience each game day by knowing the score at any point in time throughout matches played on either court.

Music Resources for Weeroona College

BNDCE has been able to assist the Weeroona College Bendigo music program purchase new music stands for use by students.

With an increase in the number of students participating in the school’s music program, the purchase of additional stands has meant students can now learn and practice their chosen musical instruments in a safer and more professional environment as the stands allow students to be set-up in the best ergonomical position.

Celebrations for Weeroona College

A BNDCE grant has assisted Weeroona College Bendigo to better promote and advertise their 2013 celebrations, a belated 50th birthday celebration and the official opening of the new school buildings.

Many ex-students and community members attended the school’s official opening, taking up free tours of the campus and the opportunity to catch-up with old friends, colleagues and teachers.

Well done to all the school members for a wonderful showcase of their fantastic new facilities.

Epsom Community Block Party

The families and residents of the local Epsom, White Hills and Huntly communities were provided a great fun family friendly event, run by Fusion Northern Victoria, thanks to a grant from BNDCE.

The local fusion group coordinated a series of free activities, including stilt races, tug of war, face painting, bubbles, sack races and hula hoop competitions to name a few providing an opportunity for all families to have some fun. A free sausage sizzle was also available.

The event provided an opportunity for those new to the area to meet other people from across the local community. Great fun was had by all who attended!

Safe footing for Holy Rosary Parish Centre

The Holy Rosary Parish Centre now has improved access to/from its outside storage area at the rear of the Father Ted Hart Centre!

The Parish Centre was the successful recipient of a grant to asphalt the area between the two storage sheds and the hall’s northern entry. The area has been uneven and unsealed, raising safety concerns for anyone moving equipment and furniture between the sheds and the hall.

The new asphalting now provides a safe level access for hall users and Holy Rosary Primary School.

Improved Safety for Bendigo Field & Game

BNDCE has been able to assist the Bendigo Field & Game Club to purchase new first aid kits and safety vests.

The field & game club were in need of updating first aid kits and improving awareness of their first aid officers on the shooting range, at normal club events and also on vermin control programs.

The new first aid kits improve safety and response to club members and the vests have improved awareness of club first aid officers. Improved safety for all!

Lighting Trees for Weeroona Performing Arts

Performing Arts Students at Weeroona College are now able to entertain their audiences with even more professional performances thanks to a community grant provided by BNDCE.

The grant has contributed towards the cost of purchasing new performing arts lighting trees and a control panel for use in the school’s many productions.

It’s all lights and action now for the students as they take to the stage for each production!

Let’s Dance at White Hills Primary School

A BNDCE grant has assisted the students at White Hills Primary School to participate in coordinated dance activities.

The dance programs offer students an alternative exercise program to the traditional sports and as well as the physical exercise benefits also helps develop confidence through performing in front of larger audiences.

Three aerobics and one hip hop team competed in competitions at state and national level which was a great achievement for the students, their coaches and volunteers!

Raywood Community Vegetable Garden

Raywood community members and students are now able to be “hands-on” in their vegetable gardens.

With a successful grant from BNDCE the students are now learning about how to grow a wide range of vegetables from seeds and seedlings. The program will teach the students about how to be responsible for tending to the garden as well as the healthy food options that can easily be grown at home.

The vegetable garden project, a healthy choice for all!

White Hills Community Pool Shade

Patrons of the White Hills Community Pool are now able to have a safer and more comfortable visit to the local White Hills community pool.

Thanks to a successful BNDCE grant, the pool committee have been able to purchase some new tables & chairs and shade equipment. The increased shade in the open grassed area will provide protection from the sun to more patrons over the summer months.

Anglican Parish of Bendigo North Computer & Software

A BNDCE grant has assisted the Anglican Parish of Bendigo North to improve the general administration, record keeping and communication of the parish.

The parish has upgraded their computer and software ensuring it be more reliable and providing the ability to better manage their finances, prepare service booklets as well as enable them to get internet connection to improve communication to the parish.

Huntly Historical Society Binding & Title Machine

The Huntly Historical Society can now create professional hard covered publications of historical value to the community thanks to a grant by the BNDCE.

The new binding and title machine allows the historical society to provide a professional finish to the historical information compiled, better preserving the information in accessible formats for longer periods of time.

Northern Bendigo Landcare Indigenous Gardening Workshops

Northern Bendigo Landcare Group, since completing the Huntly Community Indigenous Demonstration Garden has offered a series of Indigenous Gardening Workshops.

The workshops have provided an opportunity for local residents to learn about caring for and enhancing their local environment and for the many people taking up residence in the new subdivisions an opportunity to learn about local flora which may assist when planning their new gardens.

Epsom Primary School Chook Shed

A BNDCE grant has assisted the Epsom Primary School to beautify and further improve their existing chook shed and yard area for students to enjoy!

The area is an active learning environment for students within the school to learn about interacting with the animals. The school has now improved the chook yard and shed by painting animal pictures on the yard wall, making the area more appealing to the children to use.

White Hills Football Netball Club Netball Scoreboard

White Hills Football/Netball Club has installed a new scoreboard beside its second netball court at the White Hills Recreation Reserve, thanks to a community grant provided by BNDCE.

The grant has contributed towards the cost of production and installation a new scoreboard for use on the second netball court which currently does not have a scoreboard at all. The new scoreboard includes magnetic numbers which are safer and easier for volunteers to use.

Players, administrators and spectators will now have a more positive experience each game day by knowing the score at any point in time throughout the matches played on the court.

Holy Rosary Parish Memorial Garden

Family members of the Holy Rosary Community, Parents and Parishioners are now able to remember loved ones who pass whilst still attending the school with the establishment of a memorial garden.

The school was recently hit by the tragic passing of Imogen Pearl Ilott and the memorial garden has been established to provide all students, teachers, family and friends with a special place to remember those they love.

Epsom Pre-School Furniture

Children at the Epsom Pre-School are now more comfortable thanks to a grant from the BNDCE!

BNDCE provided $1000 to assist with the replacement of old second hand and worn furniture.

New plastic chairs were purchased in a suitable size for preschool age children so they can sit at the correct height at their work stations/tables.

The new furniture has given the pre-school a new fresh feel for all the children who attend.

Bendigo Family Drug Support Group - Support Program Funding

BNDCE has supported the Bendigo Family Drug Support Group, providing two grants to allow them to continue to support and educate families and friends of drug users.

The support group aims to turn crisis into coping and develop awareness in people. Grants have been provided by the enterprise to purchase books to start a small library of recommended reading for families of drug users and to allow them to offer the “Stepping Stones” education program to families.

The books are to educate and assist in strengthening relationships within a family and to help people change and regain their own lives. Since acquiring the books, they have found them to be well read and they have been a great help to people coming to the support group.

The “Stepping Stones” program is a course which provides families with a roadmap to navigate the journey. It is designed to help turn crisis into the ability to cope and to help families to change and regain control of their own lives.

Help is available…..

We encourage anyone struggling with this problem in their family to contact the Bendigo Family Drug Support Group on 0407 450 188 or www.fds.org.au The Bendigo Family Support group meets fortnightly, details of meeting dates/times are on their website along with information such as tips to coping and setting boundaries.

Family Drug Support National Hotline - 24 hours, 7 days a week – 1300 368 186

Nathan Worrell, Facilitator - Family Drug Support in Bendigo

Goornong Pool Shade

The Goornong toddler pool now has improved shade thanks to a grant from the BNDCE!

The Goornong Pool committee were the successful recipients of a grant to replace the existing shade structure over the toddler pool. The previous shade shelter had deteriorated and was no longer offering reasonable protection to toddlers swimming in the toddler pool.

The new shade area can be enjoyed by families within the Goornong area who visit the pool, while remaining Sunsmart. This grant continued improvement to the area as did previous funding, for a pool cover to keep out leaves and dirt, making for a more hygienic toddler facility.

Vision Australia - Embroidery program

BNDCE has provided a grant to Vision Australia to operate a day program for visually impaired clients!

The day program operates four days per week to provide people from Bendigo and the surrounding region who are aged and blind and those with low vision, with the opportunity to be involved with other people in regular, structured, centre-based recreational activities.

This grant was to provide cottons for embroidery of cushions and other craft pieces by participants of the Day Programs. During each day participants come together for lunches, afternoon tea, crafts, song and fellowship. The groups run with the assistance of staff and volunteers who assist participants in enjoying hobbies, social interaction and a variety of activities specially tailored to their level of vision.

Bagshot Cricket Club Tractor

BNDCE has been able to assist the Bagshot Cricket Club by providing a grant towards the purchase of a second hand tractor to mow their cricket oval.

The purchase has meant club members no longer need to regularly borrow a tractor from local farmers which has needed to be driven long distances to and from the oval each time the oval needed mowing.

Furnishings Improve Social Functions at Holy Rosary

A successful grant application by Holy Rosary has meant their function room has been refurnished with 200 new stackable chairs to assist with seating for Parish gatherings: community celebrations, seminars, COGB immunisation program, primary school, and community dances.

BNDCE promotes Active Kids Program

The Holy Rosary Active Kids Program for pre-school children and families provides, gym activities, music and movement, perceptual motor development and play.

BNDCE was able to assist this project by providing funds for storage and play equipment. Equipment included building blocks, instruments, balance equipment, balls and more to challenge and improve hand/eye co-ordination and encourage imagination, socialisation and participation.

BBQ for Weerona College

A BNDCE grant has assisted the Weerona College Parents Club to purchase and install a BBQ and beautify the BBQ area for the benefit of all at Weerona College Bendigo.

The BBQ and newly landscaped area is used to assist with school events catering, fundraising activities and also offers another social area in the school surrounds.

Goornong Toddler Pool Cover improves Hygiene

The cover has meant that the leaf matter has not been able to discolour and dirty the pool and has significantly reduced the amount of time needed to spend cleaning the pool.

The appearance of the pool has improved and positive feedback from the community has occurred in this regard.

Old cemetery, new beginning....

A successful grant application by the Huntly & Districts’ Historical Society has meant the Huntly Cemetery now has a Grand Entrance!

The funds were used by the society to assist in erecting a new brick pier and iron picket fence around the last vestige of the Huntly cemetery at the Pasley St entrance. The fence was unveiled on Sunday 10th October as part of the commemoration of 140 years since the first burials were conducted.

The new entrance ensures increased awareness of the cemetery’s location and its significance in the district.

Community Enterprise helps kinder kids play

Epsom Kinder have recently undergone renovations to replace and upgrade their kinder play house facilities. A grant was provided by BNDCE which allowed the upgrade of window fittings to meet required safety specifications and the finalisation of the project.

The fresh, new and airy building will allow kinder children to play in a safe and comfortable environment. The children will be able to role play and interact with one another as they use their imaginations to: play house, cook in their kitchen and create and share together.

Safe Landing for Goornong Primary School Students!

A successful grant application by the Goornong Primary School now means students can practice high jump safely anytime they wish!

The school has purchased a new High Jump mat for the students to practice high jump at the school safely, eliminating the need to borrow a mat as previously required.

This welcome addition compliments the school student’s athletic activities.

Huntly Primary School Anniversary Float

The Primary School was the successful recipient of a BNDCE Grant to build a major float for the anniversary celebrations Street Parade.

The school float was built by the current students, teachers and parents and represented school from years ago. The float portrayed children and teachers in period costume seated at their desks. The centre piece on the school float was a giant birthday cake to celebrate 150 years.

The Primary School celebrated its 150th birthday on Saturday 12th of June.

Please be seated at Strauch Reserve!

Those attending the new social room at the Strauch Reserve can now be seated comfortable thanks to the BNDCE.

The Strauch Reserve are recent community grant recipients, their project: to purchase new tables and chairs for their social rooms.

The facility is now more attractive for hire and usable by all the user groups of the Strauch Reserve.

Safe Picking for Landcare Northern Bendigo!

The Landcare Northern Bendigo group applied for a grant to purchase items to assist them in undertaking their regular Roadside Clean-ups.

The pick-up of rubbish has normally been a back-breaking exercise with Landcare volunteers having to bend over to pick up any rubbish items. With the assistance of BNDCE they have been able to purchase some new hand picker uppers which will now allow them to safely pick up roadside rubbish. The volunteers are clearly visible when picking up rubbish on sides of local roads with safety vests and appropriate signage to notify vehicles that they are on roadsides working.

The group regularly undertake local roadside clean-ups however we encourage everyone to lessen their work by thinking first and placing their rubbish in bins.

BBQ installed at Strauch Reserve Junior Oval

In the past few years junior cricket at Huntly’s Strauch Reserve has gone hand in hand with the Sat morning sausage sizzle which has been a great favourite of junior players and spectators alike.

In the past a portable bbq was always transported to the sheltered area, now a fixed bbq has been erected for the use of both footballers and cricketers alike.

Huntly Family Fun Days – 2020 & 2021

In February 2020 and 2021 our BNDCE and City of Greater Bendigo supported local community groups, clubs and individuals to run the free Huntly Family Fun Day. Some of the delights provided at no cost included an animal farm, fire truck, games, LEGO, face painting, dancing, bug catching, wooden animal construction, rock climbing and live music. Displays by local groups and businesses that engage with pre-school children gave valuable information. The BNDCE has committed to the ongoing financial support of this valuable annual event for the younger members of our community.

Major Project – Promenade Seating for Bendigo Botanic Gardens Garden for the Future

Bendigo Northern District Community Enterprise (BNDCE) contributed $20,000 to the new Garden For The Future Promenade Seating project which was completed in July 2019. This is our second investment to the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, a wonderful community asset.

The promenade seating is approximately 133 metres of timber seating, equivalent to 66 park benches and curves along the walking path in the gardens. One seating curve follows the creek side path, whilst the other is on the roadside curve near the front entrance. The seating is an environmentally friendly project, built from approximately 700 linear metres of reclaimed redgum from the trees that were removed from the Ravenswood Interchange project on the Calder Freeway.

The Promenade seating was a collaborative project, thanks to partnerships with: Bendigo Northern District Community Enterprise, Friends of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, City of Greater Bendigo and Regional Roads Victoria. We invite the broader community to visit this wonderful asset, to view the development of the plants, wander the paths and take a rest on the amazing new seating.

Bendigo Health Books for Babies program

This is the second time BNDCE has supported the Bendigo Health Books for Babies initiative, contributing $3,000 to the overall total. This program is to encourage new mothers to introduce literacy at an early age with young babies and toddlers and includes a board book. Each mum will receive a package with literature about the importance of reading to children to develop early literacy. Research shows that early oral language is developed best by interaction between adults and children from birth. This program encourages them to sing, play and read together.

Bendigo RSL Restoration & Museum project

BNDCE was proud to support the Bendigo RSL with their recent building restoration and museum project. Each of the local community enterprises contributed $5,000 towards the project, totalling $20,000. The museum is a state-of-the-art facility with temperature-controlled rooms and storage allowing for international exhibitions. This allows our local facility to bring more visitors to Bendigo making the Central Goldfields region a popular destination.

Major Grant - Shade Sail and Sandpit Cover at Epsom Primary School

Leadership students from Epsom Primary School presented their application to the BNDCE committee around their need for a shade sail and sandpit cover to make it SunSmart, safe, clean and more presentable for the school community. This is a major installation, requiring footings and an overhead structure to complete the project.

The BNDCE committee was so impressed with the students’ application for funding and their passion for their school - the school were successful for a major grant of $10,000.

Supporting the Sun Loong 750 Campaign

The local Bendigo community enterprises made a donation to the project of $20,000 towards the creation of a new Imperial Dragon, Dai Gum Loong (meaning “Big Gold Dragon”). This was a collaborative community investment to support the Bendigo Chinese Association. It is a great example of how the enterprises work together to support Bendigo.

To promote the new Dragon project, BNDCE ran a Primary School colouring competition with all the primary schools along the northern corridor. All schools participated, with students from all grades showing creative use of colour on their entries. The winning Primary School was Goornong, with 100% student participation. They received $250 and a visit from the Chinese Association Lion Dancers.

Books for Babies

Bendigo Health approached the combined enterprises seeking support for the Books for Babies initiative. This program is to encourage new mothers to introduce literacy at an early age with young babies and toddlers.

Each mum will receive a package with literature about the importance of reading to children to develop early literacy. Also included in the package is a board book to share with their infant and talk about the pictures.

Research shows that early oral language is developed best by interaction between adults and children from birth. BNDCE is pleased to support this important message to all families with young children and encourage them to sing, play and read with their children.

Major funding for Discovery Centre Science project at White Hills Primary School

BNDCE contributed $10,000 to the Discovery Centre to provide the White Hills Primary School Community with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) package.

The Discovery Centre worked in conjunction with White Hills Primary School and LaTrobe University to deliver introductory science sessions at the school.

LaTrobe University has partnered with the Discovery Centre to provide pre-service teachers the opportunity to work in the school environment. Initial sessions will occur at the school followed by a Discovery Centre visit with a lab education session.

Every White Hills Primary School Student will be included in this science experience in 2017 thanks to the BNDCE funding.

Our observation of a Grade 2 Class experience around sound included students developing language such as vibration and ear drums. The students participated in fantastic experiments using containers with strings where the sound became greater the larger the container. They also used metal coat hangers on strings and tuning forks in water. The students were highly engaged and enthusiastic about the hands on activities.

Another session observed was around gravity where students built their own flying craft from everyday items and had an opportunity to fly them in a wind tunnel. The sessions for older students included circuits and marble works.

All students who attended the Discovery Centre could use the interactive floor displays and enter the planetarium.

Defibrillator Grants – White Hills Primary School and Golden City Soccer Club

As part of the “Defib your club for Life program” the enterprise has now assisted 12 groups to purchase a Defibrillator. Each machine costs $2,300 and the purchase includes face-to-face training on how to operate the machine. The machines are easy to use and actually talk you through the procedure via voice instruction.

The most recent recipients of the machines have been the White Hills Primary School and Golden City Soccer Club who will share the defibrillator with the other resident clubs North Bendigo Football Netball Club and Bendigo Cricket Club.

4th Major Project – Bendigo Botanic Gardens, BBQ/Meeting Place

BNDCE are pleased to support the City of Greater Bendigo’s new Garden for the Future project at Bendigo Botanic Gardens as the focus for its next major project contribution. The Garden for the Future project will be a major new addition to the existing gardens and will provide a great venue for outdoor events, informal recreation activities, gatherings, picnics, educational programs and horticultural research and high quality cultural, recreational and educational experiences.

The two hectare contemporary Garden for the Future will feature a range of amenities including an outdoor stage and grassed amphitheatre for outdoor performances and cinema and a number of semi-intimate gathering spaces for weddings and corporate functions as well as a promenade that could be used for markets. The Gardens will also function as an outdoor classroom and we believe it will become a favourite destination for schools throughout Central Victoria.

BNDCE will provide $20,000 which will be used towards a new barbecue and picnic facilities area at the Garden for the Future project. Construction of the Garden for the Future commenced early 2016 and is expected to be opened to the public in mid-2017.

Photograph courtesy of the Bendigo Advertiser, 12 January 2016.

Discovery Centre Solar Project – Bendigo Sustainability Group

Following the recent support of the Bendigo Sustainability Group’s Bendigo Library Solar project we were invited to participate in a follow-up solar project for the Bendigo Discovery Centre.

The crowd funding campaign is to install 44 solar panels and create an interactive exhibit at the Discovery Science and Technology Centre. The exhibit will include a monitoring and display system for the solar PV systems to display information about the electricity generated which can be used to showcase sustainability for students and visitors.

BNDCE is committed to Bendigo’s efforts to reduce our solar footprint and therefore purchased 2 solar panels for the Discovery Centre project. For further information regarding the Bendigo Sustainability Group visit www.bsg.org.au, email coordinator@bsg.org.au or phone 03 5443 4244.

OTIS Foundation - Kez’s Hideaway

The OTIS Foundation provides retreat accommodation at no cost to those living with the challenges of breast cancer. Kez’s hideaway retreat is a new facility developed by Paul Gray and his team in conjunction with the OTIS Foundation to add to the Foundation’s national network of residences. The local Bendigo Community Enterprises (Bendigo Northern District CE, Empowering Eaglehawk CE, Strathfieldsaye & Districts CE, Kangaroo Flat CE and Mt Alexander CE) are proud to have made a combined contribution to the Kez’s Hideaway project.

For further information regarding the OTIS Foundation or Kez’s Hideaway visit www.otisfoundation.org.au or www.kezshideaway.org.au

Community Enterprise supports Bendigo Library Solar Project

The community enterprise is pleased to support the Bendigo Sustainability Group's Bendigo Library Solar Project.

Bendigo Sustainability Group (BSG) has secured the opportunity to place 20kW (80 solar panels) on the new Bendigo Goldfields Library. Funds generated by the sale of the electricity generated will be used to continue to expand its sustainability projects.

The community enterprise has donated $800 to enable the purchase of two solar panels in the project.

The Bendigo Sustainability Group regularly run community information sessions to promote the benefits of solar PV and also assist people to identify potential savings and the most suitable sized system for their needs.

For further information regarding the Bendigo Sustainability Group visit www.bsg.org.au, email coordinator@bsg.org.au or phone 03 5443 4244.

Major Project - Weeroona College Shade project!

Since forming in 2006, BNDCE has forged a strong relationship with Weeroona College Bendigo. BNDCE is pleased to announce the focus of its next major project will see the enterprise continuing to work with Weeroona College, the provider of secondary education in the Bendigo Northern corridor.

Weeroona College has recently undergone a re-build, with fantastic new facilities for all students who attend the college. The total re-build of the site has however meant the trees are young and currently do not provide significant shade for students and staff to utilise during break times, especially during the hotter months.

In line with the college’s Sun Smart focus, the community enterprise has worked with the college to contribute $10,000 to realise a new shade project. The project has seen the construction of 3 new shade sails between the office building and the amphitheatre and performing arts centre.

It’s fantastic to see the project completed with its positive impact and enhancement of the college.

Active Walk/Ride2School program

BNDCE were pleased to support the local primary schools (White Hills, Holy Rosary, Epsom & Huntly) with the 2014 Active Communities and National Walk/Ride2School Program.

The Walk/Ride2School program is a behaviour change initiative that works to make active travel normal for students, while improving schools educational outcomes. The program aims to tailor its assistance to suit the needs or overcome the barriers faced by each school.

The four local primary schools have a combined enrolment of approximately 1000 children. Initiatives such as this program are a great way to support students with exercise and active travel – riding, walking, skating and scooting.

With today’s level of physical activity significantly low when compared to statistics 40 years ago, the Walk/Ride2School program is working to reverse this trend. Every student at each of the four local primary schools received a BNDCE pedometer to encourage them to continue their activity long after Walk/Ride2School Day had passed.

The program was further supported through IGA Long Gully, generously providing fresh fruit for all students at three of the participating primary schools.

Photograph courtesy of the Bendigo Advertiser, 19th March 2014.

A New Children’s Play Space for Strauch Reserve!

The community enterprise is very proud to have supported its first major project outside of the twice yearly community grants program, the purchase and installation of a new children’s playground at Huntly’s Strauch Reserve.

The main piece of play equipment includes a curved slide, bubble panel with stationary wheel and a spiral climber. The two other play items installed are two swings and a jitterbug twin rocker.

The enterprise worked closely with the user groups of Strauch Reserve and the City of Greater Bendigo to achieve this fantastic outcome for the Huntly community and the families of younger children who attend the reserve.

The community enterprise contributed $10,000 towards the purchase of the play equipment, with the City of Greater Bendigo contributing the balance to cover the excavation, soft fall and framing of the play space.

The community enterprise has erected a sign recognising the collaborative project.

Defib Your Club, For Life Program!

As part of the “Defib your club for Life program” the enterprise has now assisted 10 groups to purchase a Defibrillator. Each machine costs $2,300 and the purchase includes face-to-face training on how to operate the machine. The machines are easy to use and actually talk you through the procedure via voice instruction.

The most recent recipients of the machines have been the Huntly Fire Brigade, Bendigo Golf Club, Y Service Club of Bendigo and Epsom Primary School.

Fire Brigade Command Vehicle

Community enterprises working together have given Bendigo fire services the final sum needed to purchase a new Forward Command Vehicle ahead of bushfire season.

Strathfieldsaye & Districts Community Enterprise and Bendigo Northern District Community Enterprise with the Community Enterprise Foundation have donated $6000 that comprises the final part of Fortuna Fire Brigades Group contribution to the total cost of the new vehicle.

The Fortuna group is the coordinating body for 10 fire brigades – Bendigo, District 2 HQ, Eaglehawk, Golden Square, Huntly, Kangaroo Flat, Lockwood, Maiden Gully, Marong, and Strathfieldsaye.

The group’s brigades protect much of the structural risk in the City of Greater Bendigo, the open grasslands in the west of the municipality and assist the Department of Sustainability and Environment in national and regional parks.

The community donation will assist in the fit out of the vehicle. The Fortuna group has chosen a Prado for its off-road performance. It will be used in a range of incident management roles.

The enterprises who contributed funds appreciate the protective role fire brigades play in their respective communities.

SDCE and BNDCE partner with Bendigo and Adelaide Bank and Bendigo Community Telco which allows them to improve existing infrastructure and build new community assets.

Student Awards, celebrating student achievements!

Since 2010 the Bendigo Northern District Community Enterprise has been supporting the celebration of academic and community achievements of local Weerona College Bendigo students at their annual awards night.

The successful students across Years 7, 8 & 9 have been presented with certificates of achievement and vouchers to assist them with educational costs for the following year.

We congratulate all the award winners to date and look forward to seeing these young people continuing to achieve great things.