We recently received some amazing feedback from Wandoan State School P&C on the H2Grow programme that we were able to support.

Funded by Mitchell Water and the Wandoan State School P&C, together with school leadership, is proud to launch H2Grow: Wandoan Hydration & Sustainability Initiative — a project focused on student wellbeing, sustainability, and community benefit. With enrolments rising, existing indoor drinking taps no long meet demand, especially during busy times like lunch, sport, and outdoor activities.

H2Grow will install modern, hygienic, accessible cold-water refill stations near the main oval and sporting areas, improving hydration access for students, staff, and community groups that use the school’s facilities.

Better access to cold drinking water supports student focus, physical performance, and overall health – especially important in a rural, outdoor-active school environment. The project also strengthens the school’s sustainability goals by encouraging the use of reusable water bottles and reducing single-use plastic waste. H2Grow demonstrates the P&C’s commitment to quality facilities that promote healthy lifestyles and support he Wandoan school community now and into the future.

The Ararat Men’s Shed is a community-based, not-for-profit organisation which focuses on social, charitable projects like woodworking crafts and repairs that benefit the wider communities within the Greater Grampians region. The Ararat Men’s Shed consists of 42 local members ranging in age from 20–50 years old, catering for everyone regardless of their age or ability, and providing a space where men can get together in a welcoming environment. The aim is to improve men’s health by fostering connection and learning new skills while at the same time supporting the local community.

Philip Graham is President of the Ararat Men’s Shed and has been the instigator of recycling Mitchell Water’s timber pipe struts and working with Villa Maria to deliver workshops in woodworking to the disadvantaged. They have also used their woodworking skills to create props for the local Moyston Primary School’s annual play, Impressive!