Local communities in Albury, Wagga, Berrigan, Coolamon, Yass, Bundanoon and Goulburn are set to share in $6.58 million for 14 community-led projects designed to help regional towns stay active, connected and thriving.
The grants, delivered through the NSW Government’s $50 million Active Regional Communities program, support projects that help attract and retain residents and workers, strengthen regional economies and help communities thrive and adapt to change.
The grants include funding for major regional events, sporting and community infrastructure, local activities, cultural programs, youth and employment support, neighbourhood initiatives and practical services.
“Regional communities know what they need, and this funding is about backing local projects that are practical, can get going and have been shown they can a real and positive difference,” said NSW Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty.
“These projects will give communities better places to come together, stay active and connected, and make the most of their local facilities.
“Strong communities are the foundation of strong regional economies, and this investment will help deliver a more cohesive, active and connected Riverina, Murray and Southern Tablelands.”
The Riverina, Murray and Southern Tablelands grants are for 14 projects totalling $6.58 million and include:
- $52,555 for the Lavington Football Netball Club for resurfacing and court upgrades.
- $1,365,130 for Goulburn Mulwaree Council to upgrade the Goulburn Regional Hockey Centre playing field, helping create a modern two-field competition-standard venue that supports local participation, major championships, volunteer involvement and the region’s visitor economy.
- $510,000 for Onerwal Local Aboriginal Land Council to establish a new multi-purpose community hub in Yass, providing culturally safe spaces for learning, wellbeing, community connection and participation.
- $99,954 for Auscycling to deliver a mobile cycling hub in Wagga Wagga, helping more children and families get active through bike education, skills training and community riding activities.
- $83,524 for Ganmain and District Sports Club to transform an underutilised space at the club into a welcoming year-round community hub for local residents, sporting groups and visitors.
Onerwal Local Aboriginal Land Council Chief Executive Officer, Marcayla Stopp said the funding marks a significant milestone for Onerwal LALC and the local community.
“…Enabling us establish a culturally safe community hub where our people can connect and access vital services and programs delivered by the LALC,” said Ms Stopp.
“The new community bus will also help break down the transport barriers our community continues to face, creating greater opportunities for participation and connection, and we are incredibly grateful for this investment in the future wellbeing of our people.”
Funding for projects in the Central and Far West, Hunter and Central Coast will be announced soon.
The grants across regional NSW are supporting practical, community-led projects that make regional towns more liveable, connected and attractive places to call home.
The Active Regional Communities Package is part of more than $224 million being delivered from the NSW Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust Fund to provide strategic and sustainable investment where it is needed to grow regional and rural industries, businesses and communities.
For more information, go to The Regional Development Trust.
