General News
13 February, 2025
Community weighs in on future of town
Rainbow Progress Association was expecting strong opinions at a workshop yesterday as more than 150 residents had already shared their vision for the town's future through an online community survey.
The Rainbow 2050 Community Workshop was held yesterday, Wednesday February 12.
Organisers said they were looking forward to welcoming more younger participants and families who were new to the district.
Rainbow Progress Association secretary Bernard Young said the survey had shown a deep commitment to the town’s future.
“The survey gives us the directions of the broader community, but face-to-face consultation is just as important to us as the survey,” Mr Young said.
“One of the reasons we're running the survey is people can’t get to a particular meeting on a particular day.
“The community meeting can actually hear from the survey and the things that are most at the top of people’s minds.”
A significant concern from the survey is the need to support local businesses, especially as economic pressures weigh on the region.
While Rainbow has avoided the direct impacts of recent bushfires, businesses across the shire have struggled.
Other factors emerged from the survey, including a connection between new and long-term residents, utilising community spaces and services, and several professional, social and recreational opportunities for the town's youth and families.
Tourism also stands out as a priority, with residents backing the Rainbow Silo Project – an attraction unlike any other in the region.
Unlike traditional silo art, this project features artwork on the interior of the structure.
Visitors will be able to step inside at multiple levels.
Alongside the silo project, other initiatives like Rainbow Lake and the Rainbow Rises Events site are also generating excitement.
“These are two things that Rainbow people actually thought of themselves,” Mr Young said.
The survey results are set to be compiled into a report for Hindmarsh Shire Council to help shape its long-term planning.
“Council has to do a four-year action plan but this project is about looking much further ahead,” Mr Young said.
“It’s about where we want Rainbow to be in 2050.
"The community is positive and very proud of the town."
The workshop was held in Rainbow Football Club's rooms.