Help shape the future of sport, recreation and community activities in West Wimmera
West Wimmera Shire Council is working with local communities to explore ways to help children and young people aged 0 to 25 stay active, connected and involved in community life close to home.
Close to Home is a two-year project supported by funding through VicHealth’s Partners in Place program. The project aims to better understand what is working well in our communities, the challenges affecting local sport and recreation, and how opportunities can be strengthened for the future.
Why are we seeking feedback?
Our communities have strong local connections, dedicated volunteers, quality facilities and unique outdoor spaces. However, changing population trends, limited volunteer capacity and increasing demands on local clubs and groups can make it challenging to maintain opportunities for children and young people.
Council wants to hear from community members, sporting clubs, community groups and other local organisations to better understand local needs and identify opportunities to support sustainable sport, recreation and community activities.
Your feedback will help us understand:
- What is working well in your community.
- Challenges facing local clubs, groups and volunteers.
- Barriers preventing children and young people from participating.
- Opportunities to strengthen local sport, recreation and community activities.
- Ideas to help keep local opportunities sustainable into the future.
Have your say
Community consultation sessions are being held across West Wimmera to give people the opportunity to share their experiences, concerns and ideas.
The first sessions will be held at:
- Apsley Hall, 7.30pm Wednesday 28 October 2026.
- Goroke Community Complex, 7.30pm Thursday 29 October 2026.
Everyone is welcome to attend, whether you are involved in a local club or group, a parent or young person, or simply someone who cares about the future of your community.
Further sessions will be announced as dates and locations are confirmed.
Council is also preparing a community survey to gather information about health, wellbeing, sport and recreation across the municipality. More information about the survey will be shared when it is available.
What happens next?
Feedback and local data collected through Close to Home will help Council identify priorities and develop initiatives to improve opportunities for children and young people across West Wimmera.
The project will explore potential initiatives for trial from early 2027, with the first activities expected to begin rolling out in term 2, 2027.
Questions?
For more information about Close to Home, contact Strategic Projects Manager Sarah Ellis on 13 99 72.