General News
4 April, 2023
Yarriambiack in contention for two state awards
Yarriambiack Shire Council is a finalist in two categories of this year's LGPro Awards for Excellence, which promote and celebrate outstanding workundertaken and delivered by individuals and teams in Victorian local governments. The Hopetoun...
Yarriambiack Shire Council is a finalist in two categories of this year's LGPro Awards for Excellence, which promote and celebrate outstanding workundertaken and delivered by individuals and teams in Victorian local governments.
The Hopetoun Powerhouse Project has been nominated as a finalist in the Outstanding Small Rural Council Initiative category.
Located in the heart of Victoria's Silo Art Trail, Hopetoun's Powerhouse Arts Studio offers a unique studio and exhibition space combined with modern accommodation.
Originally opened in 1913 as Hopetoun’s power supply, the Powerhouse has been given a new lease on life as an art studio providing artists with a versatile space in a rural setting.
In addition to hosting artists in residence, the studio space has been used for community art classes and events since its opening in April 2022.
The Powerhouse is managed by local community organisations Gateway BEET and the Hopetoun Progress Association, with profits earned from the accommodation returned to community-based projects.
Yarriambiack Shire Council chief executive officer Tammy Smith said the Powerhouse was a haven for visiting artists.
“With limited short-term rental accommodation available in the region, the Powerhouse allows artists to stay locally and immerse themselves in the community," Ms Smith said.
"The Powerhouse project highlights the innovative ways rural communities solve problems such as accommodation shortages and creates unique visitor experiences for visiting artists.
"It also provides a diverse arts and culture offering to local residents who may not have the opportunity to participate and engage with art out of the region.
“The Hopetoun community championed this project and has been instrumental in its
success.
"It's wonderful that the project has been recognised at a state level."
The second finalist is council’s project coordinator Rebecca Botheras, who has been nominated in the Young Achiever category.
Ms Botheras is responsible for the oversight and leadership of major infrastructure projects across Yarriambiack Shire.
She has played a pivotal role in the planning and delivery of modular changerooms at Beulah Recreation Reserve, redevelopment of the netball and tennis court at Brim, work on the netball and tennis courts and modular changerooms at Rupanyup, and master planning projects at Warrackneabeal's Anzac Park and Murtoa Recreation Reserve.
“Rebecca is a proactive and passionate team member who goes above and beyond in her role to ensure our sport and recreation projects are completed on time and meet the needs of our communities," Ms Smith said.
"Her attention to detail and project management skills are exceptional.
"Rebecca’s projects are inclusive and are assisting council to future-proof sport and recreation opportunities in our communities.
"She's an incredible asset to not only council, but our region."
Ms Botheras’ work has already been recognised at state level, with council having received the Tennis Victoria Supporting Tennis - Local Government Award in 2021.
Winners of the LGPro Awards for Excellence will be announced at a ceremony in Melbourne on May 25.