Cootamundra electorate's $11.8 million boost for grassroots projects

With the state election looming, there has been a flurry of activity for the Cootamundra electorate, with local projects becoming big winners.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced numerous beneficiaries of round five Stronger Country Communities Fund grants.

Ms Cooke said she was proud to support investment in community projects right across the seat.

“Through the fifth round of the Stronger Country Communities Fund, we have secured over $11.8 million across the nine local government areas of the Cootamundra electorate,” she said.

“It may sound straightforward, but projects like playground upgrades go such a long way in supporting a brighter future for families.

“It is important we continue to invest in our communal spaces and facilities, because if our public spaces are welcoming and accessible, then the whole community benefits.”

Ms Cooke said she was also proud to be part of the NSW Nationals, which prioritised investment in the future of regional communities and supported people through difficult economic times, including those that come with flooding and other natural disasters, as seen in the region and further afield over the past three years.

“I am proud to have represented the Cootamundra electorate for a little over five years, and on 25 March, 2023, I hope to have the opportunity to serve another term based on my record as a passionate, proactive and effective local member,” she said.

“There is always more to do, and I am standing with a strong record of delivery across the seat of small communities.

“I remain as determined as ever to work with our communities to ensure our towns and villages remain safe, strong, prosperous and beautiful places to live, work and raise a family.”

Barmedman Bowling Club secured $202,500 to make refurbishments to its amenities to have a modern facility with improved overall accessibility.

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council secured more than $560,000 to upgrade Stockinbingal’s Fisher Park in Cootamundra and Ellwood’s Hall amenities.

Temora Community Centre and Temora Golf Club secured more than $400,000.

Temora Community Centre received $100,000, which will go towards the installation of access ramps and an automatic front door. The golf club secured $308,271 for upgrades including accessible toilets, improvements to the women’s change rooms with ramp access, lighting enhancement and ventilation, and a complete refurbishment, making the area slightly larger.

Coolamon Shire received more than $900,000, which will go towards Marrar Campdraft Arena ($107,325); Marrar’s Langtry Oval ($119,656); Coolamon’s Kindra Park ($160,000); establishment of Coolamon Showground as a hub for harness racing training ($563,819); and Ganmain Sports Club (350,000).

Junee Shire Council will use its more than $900,000 to deliver two projects: street beautification with new playground equipment for Memorial Park and the Inclusion Action Plan ($733,636); and upgrades to Junee Junction Recreation and Aquatic Centre ($169,087).

Weddin Shire received a total of $1.3 million for five projects, including the Taylor Park redevelopment and an inclusive playground ($629,979), and upgrades to support freedom camping at Weddin Shire villages ($300,000).

Grown Grenfell Group received $114,753 for lighting at Grenfell Silos and visual displays.

The Bland Shire Council received $894,780, which is set to enhance local attractions and boost engagement with local youth.

The projects to benefit from the funding include Bland Shire Youth Space coordinator and programming ($152,192); the Town Signage Project ($307,317); Active Movement Upgrades ($162,888); Bland Shire Heritage Revitalisation ($104,713); and the restoration of the Douglas DC3 Dakota airplane display ($167,670).

Cowra Shire Council and Cowra Aquatic Centre secured $981,202, which will go towards upgrades of the pool. The work includes the incorporation of a splashpad and construction of a pump shed to service the splashpad.

The splashpad will integrate with the existing toddlers’ pool, creating an area specifically designed for younger users while incorporating design features that will be accessible to children with all levels of ability.

The Hilltop Council received $1,044,850 to improve Jugiong Memorial Pool, which includes upgrades to the existing medium-sized pool, kiosk, amenities and ancillary equipment.

Koorawatha Progress Association has secured $441,360 for a new playground at Koorawatha Memorial Park, including a new playground with pathways, seating and shade.

The Stronger Country Communities Fund is part of the NSW Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies and improve services and community infrastructure in the regions.