Drought funds continue to flow in the Narrabri Shire Council area, with a further $66,368 worth of projects now approved under the Coalition Government’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP).
Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the new funding will provide far-reaching benefits for residents of the Narrabri Shire Council area.
“With an additional DCP grant of $31,245, Narrabri Shire Council will deliver infrastructure improvements to the Narrabri Racecourse,” Mr Coulton said.
“With another $35,123 grant, Council will hold free ‘Drought Stress Buster’ community events in Bellata, Boggabri, Narrabri and Wee Waa. These events will encourage social interaction and give attendees a chance to take a break from the drought.
“I have no doubt these exciting projects will provide a boost to the local economy and lift community morale given the challenging dry times.”
Narrabri Shire Council Deputy Mayor, Robert Kneale, has welcomed the funding.
“These Drought Communities Programme grants will help Narrabri Shire Council deliver a range of projects that will benefit the entire community,” Clr Kneale said.
The news follows Mr Coulton’s recent announcement of DCP grants for Narrabri Shire Council including $150,000 for water supply units in Pilliga, Gwabegar, Bellata and Baan Baa, and $90,000 to construct a community green space in Wee Waa, bringing the total to $306,368.
The DCP was extended last year to provide support of $1 million each to all 18 councils in the Parkes electorate including Narrabri, as well as the Unincorporated Area.
The DCP – Extension is targeted at projects that stimulate local community spending by using local resources, businesses, suppliers and workers, or provide long-lasting benefits for communities and agricultural industries.
Funding is available to eligible councils for local infrastructure projects and other drought-relief activities. Project funding is intended to provide short-term support, including by boosting local employment and procurement, and addressing social and community needs. For details on the DCP – Extension see https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/drought-communities-programme
Further updates on other successful council projects in the Parkes electorate will be made in the near future.