ADELAIDE Plains Council (APC) will share $1 million in Federal Government drought relief funding between 15 different community projects.

The council revealed last week how it would spend the government grants from the Drought Communities Program throughout the region, after it confirmed in June it was successful in its  application for the funding.

Additional funding from local community groups and council will see the investment in the 15 projects reach $1.8 million.

Projects to be funded as a result of the grants include upgrades to the Mallala and Long Plains Netball Clubs, new artificial turf for the Two Wells Bowling Club, a redevelopment of the Mallala Campground, a dog park at Lewiston and an upgrade of the historic wells at Two Wells.

APC chief executive James Miller thanked the Federal Government for the grants.

“It is critical that we support our small business sector through streamlined procurement processes and engagement of local services and products,” he said.

“I encourage all of our small businesses to ensure they are on our business list to be included and benefit from this exciting program, where possible.”

The Drought Communities Program provides financial assistance to councils under stress as a result of drought, and funds community projects aimed at bettering the life of locals affected by the dry climate.

APC mayor Mark Wasley said the funding was crucial to the region.

“The program was introduced at a much-needed time for our community, with some of the funding projects having been in the pipeline for 15 years and it is anticipated that delivery of these  projects will be largely community driven,” he said.

“Many clubs, sporting facilities and individuals have been in discussions over the past two months and it is a credit to the amount of contributions that are to be provided by groups to maximise the economic stimulus into the region.”