General News
4 December, 2024
Rainbow Rises development
Rainbow Rises, a growing hub for major events in the Wimmera/Mallee region, is steadily progressing towards becoming a key venue for large-scale gatherings.
The site, located just outside the township of Rainbow, is undergoing significant development, with the toilet block now halfway to completion and the building structure nearly at lock-up stage.
Project management is being handled by locals Roger Aitken and Ron Ismay, who are serving as 'Owner Builders' to help keep costs down. Roger Aitken has been appointed Site Manager for the project.
“We’re really pleased with the progress so far, and we’re committed to creating a top-tier facility for the local community and visitors alike,” said Mr Aitken.
The next major step in the development is the construction of the facility building, which has been given the green light by council.
Construction is set to begin in December, with local company Eureka Sheds from Horsham appointed to handle the build.
In addition, the local team at AJ Heinrich Concreting will soon begin pouring the concrete slab for the new structure.
The planned facility building will be a 6x18 metre Colorbond shed featuring a six metre verandah, five bays, and roller doors.
Positioned alongside the toilet block, the shed will serve as a versatile space.
The completed building is expected to be ready in the New Year, after which the committee will focus on beautifying the area with paths and paving.
Rainbow Rises Events Association, President Russell Eckermann said the development has been a long-awaited milestone for the community.
“The committee is really excited to see everything finally taking shape, after so many hours of work and planning,” he said.
Several working bees have already been held to improve the grounds, with volunteers focusing on creating safe, accessible areas for spectators and fencing off sections of the venue.
Looking ahead, the committee is preparing for two major events in 2025: the ARB 480 at the end of March, and the Rainbow Rises 240 in August.
Mr Eckermann also hinted at the possible return of the popular tractor pull event, which drew large crowds previously.
“The tractor pull was a big hit, and we’re hopeful it will be back. People loved it,” he said.
In addition to these forthcoming events, there has been interest from other event planners in hosting their own gatherings at Rainbow Rises.
“It’s exciting to see the site attracting attention from outside organisers, and we’re looking forward to what the future holds,” Mr Eckermann added.
As the development continues, Rainbow Rises is on track to become a key venue for the region, offering a modern, versatile space for a wide range of community and sporting events.
- ALISON EY
