A recent grant to Hepburn Shire Council funded the construction of an accessible equestrian mounting ramp at the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve. The new facility enables riders of all abilities to take part in activities with the local pony club, the adult riding club and Riding for Disabled.

The development was funded in part by a grant from the Victorian Government’s Tiny Towns Fund, which provides grants of up to $50,000 for community initiatives in towns with fewer than 5,000 residents. An application by Hepburn Shire was successful in attracting a $37,500 grant. Council contributed a further $10,000 to the total cost of the project.

Deputy Mayor, Cr Lesley Hewitt said that the ramp was part of the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve Masterplan developed over several years in consultation with the local community. “This project highlights how valuable it is for Council to have clear masterplans in place,” said Deputy Mayor, Cr Lelsey Hewitt. “When grants become available, we can apply with community-backed priorities ready to go.”

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, said it was encouraging to see small towns benefiting from the program. “It’s fantastic to see so many towns in my community benefitting from this fund, which is all about bringing the community together and attracting visitors,” she said.

Minister for Regional Development, Jaclyn Symes, said the projects supported through the fund were having a real impact in regional communities. “From upgraded halls to new playgrounds, these projects are improving how locals live, work and connect in their towns,” she said.

The Glenlyon ramp is one of nearly 350 projects supported across regional Victoria through the first two rounds of the Tiny Towns Fund. The program aims to improve local facilities, strengthen communities and attract visitors, with many projects completed using local contractors and suppliers.

Applications are now open for Round 3 of the Tiny Towns Fund, with grants available for projects that enhance community life or promote tourism in small towns. Applications close on Wednesday, 4 February 2026.

Further information is available at rdv.vic.gov.au/tiny-towns-fund.

This article is based on a media release from the office of Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas.