Vena Energy is supporting South Australia’s Coorong District beyond its Tailem Bend renewable energy projects. Through its Community Sponsorship Program, the company is investing in local initiatives that strengthen and connect the community.  

After launching an open call for project proposals earlier this year, Vena Energy has selected the following four initiatives spanning sustainability, community wellbeing, and local infrastructure. 

Tailem Bend Football Club: the installation of a new solar energy system featuring 75 solar panels to power the club’s change rooms and facilities, reducing energy costs while promoting sustainability within the community. 

“This funding will have a transformative impact on our club and the broader community. It will enable us to significantly reduce our environmental footprint, lower energy costs, and advocate for cleaner energy practices,” said Clinton Allen, President of Tailem Bend Football Club. 

Murray Bridge Pre-school Kindergarten: the development of a new outdoor learning environment incorporating Ngarrindjeri cultural elements, sensory spaces, and bush tucker gardens to enhance educational experiences and cultural understanding for approximately 50 children. 

“This outdoor space will provide our children with meaningful connections to the environment, Ngarrindjeri culture and learning, and an understanding of sustainability and Caring for Country. It will also be a quiet space to support children’s developmental needs,” said Shirley Hartman, Director of Murray Bridge Pre-school Kindergarten. 

Tailem Bend Community Centre: the creation of a new Christmas Parade Float to boost the festive spirit at the Tailem Bend, Murray Bridge, and Meningie Christmas Parades, reaching over ten thousand people and raising awareness of essential community wellbeing and mental health services.  

“Our ‘Train of Thought’ float, inspired by Disney Pixar’s Inside Out, is designed to connect with local families and emphasise the importance of emotional wellbeing,” said Tammy Shepherd, CEO of the Tailem Bend Community Centre. “It’s a fun and creative way to remind our community, especially children and families facing challenges, that there are support services available right here in our region.” 

Coonalpyn Golf Club: the installation of a new community BBQ, aimed at enriching community gatherings, enhancing social events, supporting fundraisers, and adding value to local golf events.  

Fostering Community Partnerships 

Head of Australia at Vena Energy, Owen Sela said the Community Sponsorship Program aimed to deliver wide-ranging benefits while building stronger connections within Vena Energy’s host communities. 

“Strong communities need spaces and facilities that bring people of all ages together. These initiatives create opportunities for connection, learning, and celebration while supporting local organisations that are the backbone of the district,” Owen said. 

“Whether it’s upgrading facilities, supporting local events, or creating new gathering spaces, our goal is to make a lasting positive impact on the Coorong District as it plays a key role in Australia’s transition to renewable energy.” 

Coorong District Council Mayor Paul Simmons highlighted the significance of Vena Energy’s support. 

“Vena Energy is a well-established renewable energy company that is giving back to our community with financial support for sporting and community projects,” Mayor Simmons said. 

“Council is very grateful for this assistance which helps clubs and organisations achieve their goals and improve facilities and services. It is very refreshing to see the genuine support Vena Energy is providing at a grass roots level.” 

As the Coorong District’s sponsored initiatives take shape, Vena Energy is expanding the program to other communities. The Western Downs Community Sponsorship Program, targeting communities near Vena Energy’s Wandoan South and Miles Renewable Projects in regional Queensland, is underway with applications being assessed for funding. 

For more information about Vena Energy’s Community Sponsorship Program, visit venaenergy.com.au/our-communities