Photo caption: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton and Moree Plains Shire Mayor Katrina Humphries pictured with Moree resident Robert Taylor (centre) on one of the new footpaths that have been constructed around Moree. Mr Taylor was thrilled with the new footpath in Heber Street, which he said provided him with better access to the Moree CBD from his house.  

Upgrades to sporting facilities and shared pathways are among a number of projects currently rolling out across the Moree Plains, thanks to a multi-million dollar Federal Government investment which is creating jobs and boosting the local economy.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton recently met with Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Katrina Humphries to discuss how the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) funding is benefitting the shire.

“Moree Plains Shire Council received $1,814,888 under the first phase of the LRCI program and an additional $1,558,515 in Phase 2, so it’s fantastic to see a number of projects charging ahead using these funds,” Mr Coulton said.

“The Moree Netball Courts have been in need of reconstruction for years, so I know this project is particularly welcome among local netballers, while the Moree Civic Precinct upgrades were required before the major redevelopment can begin, providing a modern multi-purpose venue to host entertainment events.

“The Mungindi Courts upgrade, establishment of a 100-metre track at Boughton Oval and the construction of shared pathways will also benefit the community for years to come, making the Moree Plains Shire an attractive place to live and raise a family.

“This is exactly the type of work the Federal Government is pleased to support – to create local job opportunities, while delivering lasting benefits.

“The LRCI program has proven to be a huge success for our local communities, with councils able to use these funds for projects that they otherwise wouldn’t have the capacity to undertake.”

Moree Plains Shire Council outgoing Mayor Katrina Humphries said the Shire’s future is bright and exciting thanks to the LRCI program.

“So far, funding has been used to improve public infrastructure and roads throughout the region,” Cr Humphries said.“Shortly, projects to upgrade pedestrian safety in Moree’s CBD and revamp community sporting facilities will begin.

“Phase three’s announcement is terrific news and will help big plans that are in the works and will benefit everyone in the community.”

In the 2021–22 Budget, the Australian Government announced a $1 billion extension of the LRCI program, following strong community and local government support, including an additional $3,629,776 for Moree Plains Shire Council under Phase 3. This extension brings the total LRCI funding allocation for Moree Plains Shire Council to $7,003,179.

Local projects approved under Round 1 of the LRCI program include:

• Shire-wide gravel re-sheeting – $987,679
• Moree Civic Precinct upgrades – $640,959
• Village halls amenity upgrades – $100,000
• Balo Street crossing – $86,250

Round 2 projects include:

• Moree Netball Courts renewal – $680,000
• Stage two of the Mungindi Courts Upgrade – $300,000
• Moree CBD pedestrian safety works – $326,460
• Boughton Oval 100m track – $100,000
• Construction of shared pathways around Moree – $152,055