western downs community groups share in funding boost, new round now open
From bush orienteering to school gardens and volunteer firefighters, a new round of local initiatives across the Western Downs has received a funding boost through Vena Group’s Community Sponsorship Program, delivered through its renewable energy arm Vena Energy.
Projects were selected for their alignment with environmental sustainability, infrastructure development or community wellbeing.
Among the recipients is the Range Runners Orienteering Club, which received funding to commission two new orienteering maps, one near Possum Park on the Leichhardt Highway between Wandoan and Miles, and another covering Cherwondah State Forest.
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"The new orienteering maps at Possum Park and Cherwondah State Forest mean that local orienteers now have a range of quality terrain on which to train and compete. We have a growing and talented junior orienteering squad in the Western Downs, and the new maps give them the opportunity to improve their navigation and independent problem-solving skills, ready to compete at state and national level."
Sundown Rural Brigade and Woleebee Rural Fire Brigade each received funding for a UTV 300L Ondeck firefighting unit, improving response times and safety for volunteers tackling fires in the local area.
Wandoan State School will use its funding to install WaterUps wicking beds, composting kits and worm farms, giving students hands-on learning in sustainable gardening.
Murilla Garden Club received support for bus hire, helping elderly and unlicensed members get to and from the club’s annual Christmas event.
The Noonga Community Association was backed to deliver its new Back Roads Beats and Mini Music Festival, with Dulacca State School P&C running the canteen and keeping proceeds to support local rural families.
Wandoan Swim School received funding for coaching clinics and camps for young swimmers, and Chinchilla State School P&C received support for their 2026 P&C Ball fundraiser, with proceeds going directly to student programs and facilities.
Owen Sela, Head of Australia at Vena Energy, said the program reflected the company’s broader commitment to the region.
"Our commitment to the Western Downs goes beyond renewable energy projects. From keeping volunteer firefighters equipped to giving kids hands-on learning in the garden, these are initiatives that make a real difference to everyday life here, and we're proud to back them as the region plays an increasingly important role in Queensland's clean energy future."
Now in its third year in the Western Downs, Vena Energy’s Community Sponsorship Program has opened a new round of applications, closing 30 September. Details are available at venaenergy.com.au/our-communities.
