Held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wilaura's volunteer committee won the Culture and Heritage Award for the HE(ART)BEAT of Willaura project and a Gift Fund Award, which includes a $1000 grant.

Lois Reynolds said the group was ecstatic when they found out.

"We were both surprised and honoured; after seeing all of the wonderful entries into the category, we were amazed to win the award," she said.

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"The project is lucky to have so many amazing volunteers who just live in one of the more liveable parts of the earth."

The HE(ART)BEAT of Willaura project revolves around the Willaura Railway Station which was constructed in 1870 but fell into disrepair.

A committed group of volunteers worked to restore the building which is now in full use as a gallery space, cultural precinct and activity hub.

The project is a joint effort between the Ararat Rural City Council, the Wilaura Historical Society and Willaura Modern Incorporated.

"We wanted to give the old courthouse a new, modern view of itself," Ms Reynolds said.

"Instead of installing a static art display, we are continually changing exhibitions to continually bring people to the town.

"We've put on exhibitions about football, we featured visually-impaired artists and even held a photography exhibition.

"We want to attract people to our town, with the idea they can stay and enjoy Wilaura's glorious views of the Grampians."

Ms Reynolds said, while the project is in its infancy, Willaura Modern Incorporated is looking to refurbish the Old Willaura Courthouse as a studio space and creative workshop area, thanks to the $1000 grant from Keep Victoria Beautiful.

"We're thrilled and ready for our next challenge," she said.

The premier Keep Victoria Beautiful event, the awards recognise and celebrate grassroots initiatives and positive actions taken by individuals, community groups, educational institutions, businesses and councils across rural and regional Victoria.

These include initiatives that protect the environment, reduce waste, preserve our heritage, change behaviours, increase social wellbeing, celebrate Indigenous culture and encourage strong leadership, particularly among our youth.

All up they aim to improve, empower and build resilience in local communities.

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