Communities across the Parkes electorate will share in more than $382,000 for their local projects under the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Tackling Tough Times Together initiative.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the Government is pleased to support the vital work of FRRR, which helps regional, rural and remote communities coping with emergencies and natural disasters.

“This assistance will enable community groups in my electorate to undertake projects which will boost the local economy and bring people together,” Mr Coulton said.

“There are eight fantastic initiatives in the Parkes electorate which will be funded. This includes employing a Project Coordinator for the Brewarrina Aboriginal Corporation with a $149,708 grant, to ensure the sustainability of the Corporation’s important work.

“Other great projects include a Walgett family-friendly sports day made possible with a $14,500 grant, and the re-establishment of the Wanaaring Campdraft with $16,000 in funding.

“These initiatives will help to bring the local community together in what has been a devastating drought, and give these towns a boost to get through the difficult times.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Government was providing a total of $15 million to the Tackling Tough Time Together initiative.

“During these dry times, funds for the basics like social events and school excursions are not always available, which often leads to isolation and poor mental health outcomes,” Mr McCormack said.

“These projects will help drought-affected communities cope with the stress of the drought on families and businesses in rural communities, while also contributing to the local economy and infrastructure renewal.

“These grants are a great way for communities to rally together to diversify the local economy and improve social wellbeing.”

Tackling Tough Times Together grants are managed by the FRRR, and funded through the collaboration of more than 15 donors from government, philanthropy, business and individuals, including the Australian Government, which committed $15 million to be distributed over three years.

Further information on the Tackling Tough Times Together program and the latest round of recipients can be found at www.frrr.org.au/grants/TTTT

Photo Caption: Minister for Regional Services, Decentralisation and Local Government and Member for Parkes Mark Coulton meeting with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) Board in Parliament House last month, along with Federal Coalition colleagues. The Coalition Government supports the FRRR and has committed $15 million to its Tackling Tough Times Together program.

Grant Recipients

Town	Project Title	Funding amount	Description
Brewarrina	Pulling it all Together	$149,708	Build the capacity, capability and sustainability of the Brewarrina Aboriginal Corporation by employing a Project Coordinator.
Dunedoo	Tunes on the Turf	$15,382	Reduce social isolation and stimulate local economic renewal through the delivery of Tunes on the Turf, a three day music festival in Dunedoo.
Moree	Isolated Children’s Parents Association (ICPA) NSW State Conference Moree 2020 – The Heart of Communities	$46,264	Support community connectedness and resilience and reduce volunteer fatigue by providing access to, and support for, the annual State ICPA NSW conference in Moree.
Moree (and others)	Connecting Together for Regional Scouts	$40,388	Support community volunteers to stay connected by proving digital connectivity with wi-fi and laptops for 45 Scouts groups across NSW.
Spring Ridge	Clubhouse Upgrade and renovation	$60,000	Reduce volunteer fatigue and increase the capacity of the organisation and community through the renovation of the Spring Ridge Country Club facility.
Trundle	Trundle Express	$40,000	Support educational participation for children and young people and address disadvantage exacerbated by drought through the purchase of an 11-seat mini bus.
Walgett	Walgett Community Comes Together	$14,500	Reduce social isolation and enhance community wellbeing through the delivery of a free “Come and Try” day of sports and other family friendly activities for Walgett and surrounding districts.
Wanaaring	Reviving Community Spirit in Wanaaring	$16,000	Reduce social isolation and build community engagement through re-establishment of campdraft event.