Tantanoola has become the focus for various government and private groups in recent weeks.

The Federal Government has provided an $11,200 grant to the Tantanoola Progress Association upgrade the heritage-listed railway station and goods shed.

It will be added to the $2000 already provided to the association for this purpose by Wattle Range Council.

Liberal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said community groups like the Tantanoola Progress Association contribute so much to the local community, making them better places to live, work and raise a family.

“Our local communities are the heart of Barker and this investment in local projects under the Stronger Communities Program is about invigorating these communities and ensuring their continued success,” Mr Pasin said.

Tantanoola Progress Association spokesman Ian Lines said receiving the grant allowed the residents of Tantanoola to begin the restoration of the dilapidated Railway Station and preserve the history of the town.

“This is stage one of the total project which also includes the restoration of the Goods Shed and will complement the upgrade of the central area of Tantanoola,” he said.

The restoration project and fundraising have been on the agenda of the annual general meeting of the Tantanoola Progress Association which was recently held.

Meanwhile, Wattle Range Council has recently staged a public meeting in the town’s football clubrooms at Tantanoola to consider the town community plan and new entrance signage.

Council is currently acting on the advice and seeking out design concepts based on the ideas from the night.

It has asked Tantanoola residents to complete an online survey with any additional ideas and feedback.

Finally, the Millicent-based South East Family History Group is planning an outing to Tantanoola on September 11.

It is proposed to visit the Tantanoola cemetery, have lunch at the Tantanoola Tiger Hotel and have a guided tour around the town to view buildings of interest.