Every October, the Meadows Country Fair draws crowds from across South Australia for a day of family fun, local produce, and community spirit. It's more than just an event, it's a celebration of the Adelaide Hills and the people who call it home. 

A sustainable boost for a beloved fair 

This year, the Fair took a big step toward sustainability thanks to support from SA Power Networks’ Community Grants Program. The organisers wanted to reduce the environmental impact of the event by improving waste management. Previously, volunteers handled waste sorting themselves which was a time-consuming and challenging task. 

With a $5,000 grant, the Fair was able to partner with a sustainable waste contractor to introduce professional waste management and cleaning services. This change means less waste heading to landfill and more materials being recycled responsibly.

Video: Fair committee member Krystina Dawe shares how the community grant changed their approach to waste management.

Why it matters

Fair committee member Krystina Dawe said that the grant made a real difference:

“We can already see we’ve reduced what would have otherwise ended up in a skip of mixed waste. It feels good to make ethical choices when hosting an event like this.” 

The initiative isn’t just about cleaner grounds, it’s also about building awareness. Every sorted bin and recycled item helps the community understand the importance of sustainable practices. As Krystina explains, “Every little step impacts the community and the wider environment in a positive way.” 

Supporting communities across SA 

The Meadows Country Fair is just one example of how our Community Grants Program is helping local groups create lasting change. From sustainability projects to community events, we’re proud to support initiatives that bring people together and make South Australia a better place to live.

Learn more about our Community Grants Program and how you can apply: 

SA Power Networks Community Grants