Two Dunstan High School-focused projects have received more than half a million dollars in funding from Central Lakes Trust.

The largest grant of $520,630 was awarded to Molyneux Turf Incorporated (MTI) to develop a multi-purpose artificial sports surface on the grounds of the school.

The project, which last year received $300,000 in ratepayer funding, will see the conversion of unfit-for-purpose tennis courts into a more usable space for sports of different codes.

"This facility will make a meaningful difference to our community," MTI co-president Chris Galbraith said.

“It will provide a high-quality, all-weather surface that supports year-round training and competition for schools, clubs, and community groups across Central Otago. By increasing access to quality infrastructure, we are creating more opportunities for participation, improving wellbeing, and investing in the future of local sport.”

Dunstan High School also received $68,445 to support delivery of its TradeBase vocational training programme.

TradeBase is a partnership between Dunstan High School, Breen Construction and the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation, giving students hands-on experience in building, construction and allied trades.

Students attend two days a week during the school year, working toward NZQA credits while gaining practical industry experience.

"What makes TradeBase so valuable is that it puts our students into real construction environments where they’re learning directly from people in the industry,” school principal Andrew King said.

“They’re earning NZQA credits, gaining confidence with practical skills, and seeing clear pathways into apprenticeships and employment. For some students, it opens doors they hadn’t even considered, and at the same time it helps build the skilled workforce our region relies on.”

In addition, Haehaeata Natural Heritage Charitable Trust was granted $15,000 as an operational grant for the year ahead.

The Clyde-based trust works to restore, educate and advocate for the unique dryland plant species found in Central Otago as well as the creatures that depend upon them.

CLT approved a total of $1,407,059 in grants at the February meeting, supporting projects and organisations across Central Otago and the wider central lakes area.

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