Eight community groups across the Western Downs will share in $90,000 in funds for projects and services that will benefit the region after the latest round of the Wambo Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund was announced.

The successful initiatives for Wambo, Jandowae, Jimbour and Ironpot include a new visual display on Jandowae’s history, social support for seniors to improve connection and wellbeing, yard dog trial yards as well as installing air conditioning, purchasing a new canteen fridge and building an accessibility ramp.

The Wambo Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund supports projects and initiatives that create a more connected, sustainable, resilient and healthy community for Jandowae and surrounds.

The eight local groups benefitting from the latest funding round include:

Wambo Cares Inc will strengthen social support for seniors through their Connected Lives project, hosting regular social gatherings that bring elderly community members together.

Jandowae and District Show Society will purchase multi-purpose yard dog trials to improve the functionality and safety of the facility, enhance visibility for spectators and reduce future hire costs.

Jimbour and District Sport and Recreation Club will install air conditioning and upgrade the electrical systems at the Jimbour Community Hall, ensuring it remains a vital and accessible asset for generations to come.

Jandowae Pony Club will purchase a commercial canteen fridge to improve functionality, efficiency and service within the Jandowae Showgrounds Kitchen, enhancing their capacity to host a range of community and fundraising activities.

Queensland Country Women’s Association (Jingi Valley Branch) will install a water tank, providing access to clean rainwater and reducing costs.

Ironpot Hall Association will build an accessible ramp, and upgrade facilities to improve safety and inclusivity for all community members.

Jandowae Showgrounds Management Committee will install flood lighting and connect power to the facility, enabling safer and more efficient use of the facility at night and supporting a greater range of events.

Jandowae and District Progress and Heritage Association will curate a visual display which showcases and preserves the rich history of Jandowae and its surrounding districts.

Project Director Stewart Alexander said since construction began in 2023, the Wambo Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund has proudly invested over $470,000 across 35 local projects.

"Being a responsible neighbour is central to how Wambo Wind Farm operates. We’re proud to be backing the initiatives and projects that make a real difference to the people who live and work here,” Stewart said.

“Many of these organisations rely entirely on the dedication and hard work of volunteers, and we’re proud to play a role in supporting them in any way that we can.

“Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to apply for funding. It’s inspiring to see so many incredible community organisations bringing these wonderful events and projects to life.

“We are extremely proud to be part of this community and look forward to contributing for many more years to come.”

Each year, Cubico Sustainable Investments and Stanwell, the co-owners of Wambo Wind Farm, provide up to $200,000 in funding to support the communities in which it will operate and establish long-term benefits for surrounding towns including Jandowae and Bell.