The Hive up for selection

Horsham College and Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN have joined forces to create a community space in a disused building at the school.

College and LLEN leaders have encouraged the community to support the concept, one of many in the region vying for Pick My Project funding.

Pick My Project is a Victorian-first community grant program, with funding of at least $1-million available. The top three project ideas for each region will be selected through a public vote.

Horsham College principal Rob Pyers encouraged Wimmera residents to vote for The Hive, which features two large indoor rooms, a toilet, private offices and a large workshop.

Mr Pyers said The Hive would be able to accommodate groups seeking a ‘home base’ for meetings, mentoring, community ‘hands-on’ projects and extra-curricular school activities.

The project includes a community kitchen and fruit orchard to promote healthy eating, wellbeing and social connection.

Mr Pyers said Horsham College had been looking at ways to strengthen the school’s engagement with the community.

“The school has been searching for a project that brings in the broader community,” he said.

“It takes a village to raise a child and we, as a community, have a responsibility to give them access to mentors and engaging activities and to feel a part of something bigger. As the name suggests, The Hive is about promoting inclusion, community values and engagement.”

WSMLLEN executive officer Tim Shaw said The Hive would be an active and vibrant space.

“It will use and build on existing infrastructure at an accessible location, really getting value for the community’s vote,” he said.

People can visit https://pickmyproject.vic.gov. au/ for more information about eligible projects, including The Hive, and to vote by September 17.

• Wimmera community groups or organisations can submit information about their Pick My Project submissions to sarahs@team.aceradio.com.au.