Two new community projects in the Hindmarsh Shire will be officially opened later this month.

On Saturday, 16 March 2024, Dr Anne Webster, Federal Member for Mallee, will officially open the redeveloped Jeparit Riverbank Precinct and the Nhill Cane Ball Court, both having been made possible with funds received through the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) funding program.

Nhill Cane Ball Court

The Nhill Cane Ball Court opening, officiated by Dr Webster, will be from 12.30 pm on Saturday 16 March 2024, followed by lunch and cane ball demonstrations.

The court has been constructed at the Nhill Tennis Club and will provide local residents and visitors to the Nhill Karen community with what is believed to be the only purpose-built cane ball court in Western Victoria. Cane Ball is a traditional fast-action game where opposing players use their feet to pass a small rattan ball over a net similar in height to a volleyball net that is also known as Chinlone or Sepak Takraw.
“We are delighted to deliver this project as a strong showing of our commitment to embracing the strong multiculturalism environment in our shire.”

“I look forward to this becoming a community hub, along with our new tennis club rooms, and look forward to our Karen community hosting other clubs and enjoying this great facility.”

- Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Cr Brett Ireland.
Jeparit Riverbank Precinct Redevelopment

The Jeparit Riverbank Precinct will be opened later in the day at 4.30 pm followed by a free community BBQ and free community concert featuring the popular Wimmera-based band No Plans.

The Jeparit Riverbank Precinct redevelopment has included the demolition of the original bank erosion control retaining wall and the construction of a new wall incorporating a river viewing deck and access steps to the river.

Additional infrastructure has included the construction and installation of a new camp kitchen with electric BBQs and picnic settings, along with a new amenities building, including an all-abilities bathroom, cubicles, and a shower. The area, adjacent to the Jeparit Caravan Park and Tennis Club, has been extensively landscaped with automatic sprinkler systems and instant turf.
“To say I am excited about the outcome of this project would be an understatement. Council staff and councillors are duly proud of this achievement, so much so, I have recommended we enter this project into a rural project of the year category at the upcoming National General Assembly in Canberra in July.

“This will be a facility to be enjoyed through the generations and I have only heard positive comments about it.”

“We are grateful as a shire to acknowledge the LRCI grant funding made available to both projects. This funding is vital to our ability to undertake beneficial community and road projects in our Shire.”

- Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Cr Brett Ireland.