With the funds generated through the club’s gaming facilities, the grants aim to give back to the community. 

Stawell Harness Racing Club chief executive officer Lisa McIlvride said it is very important for the club to contribute to the area.

“There aren’t a lot of grants available to clubs nowadays,” she said.

“It is very important for us as a club to give back to the community. 

“It makes us proud of where we work.”

15 community organisations and individuals were handed grants which will assist them in various ways. 

The club also handed out scholarships to Stawell West, St Patrick’s and Stawell primary schools as well as Stawell Secondary College. 

McIlvride said the grants were “well received” on the night.

“All the groups were happy with their donations,” she said. “Councillor Karen Hyslop, who was part of the panel who approved the grants, talked about how important the grants are to small organisations.”

Since 2002, the Stawell Harness Racing Club has given $814,818 worth in community support, including racing stake money and trophies.

The grants were handed out in one of the busiest weeks for the club, which will host the 2017 Stawell Pacing Cup on Sunday. 

Stawell West Primary School - Bus passes and scholarship

Anglican parish of Stawell - Stained glass windows restoration

Stawell Ballet School – Printer and ink

Stawell Rifle Club - Gun barrel trophy

Stawell pony club - New poles and paint

Stawell Golf Bowls Club - Tournament

Youth Club Cricket Club - Fridge for club house

St Patrick’s Primary School - New PA, fruit program, scholarship

Campbell’s bridge progress association – Window repairs

Stawell Secondary College - Breakfast program and scholarships

Stawell Primary School - Breakfast program and scholarship

Stawell Golf Club - Honour board restoration 

Connor Clarke – $500

Mavis Stanley – $500

Ag society – Gate for show day