Photo caption: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton inspects Gunnedah Rural Museum’s new office equipment with secretary Pat Gaynor (seated), president Owen Tydd, vice president Ian Guest and grants officer Jim Noon.

Promotion of the Gunnedah Rural Museum will be enhanced thanks to a $2,500 Federal Government grant.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton this week met with members of the Gunnedah Rural Museum to discuss their successful grant, provided under Round 6 of the Coalition Government’s Stronger Communities Programme (SCP).

“I am incredibly pleased to help such a wonderful community organisation like the Gunnedah Rural Museum to purchase new office equipment and advertising materials,” Mr Coulton said.

“Housing one of Australia’s largest collections of early agriculture and transport memorabilia, the Gunnedah Rural Museum is a local treasure. This funding will enable the dedicated volunteers to continue preserving and promoting this valuable history.

“Volunteer organisations in the Parkes electorate are pivotal to our local communities, and this program certainly goes some way to supporting them and the terrific work they do.”

Gunnedah Rural Museum President Owen Tydd said the funding has been used to purchase a computer, printer, laminator and office supplies, as well as a banner to be displayed when the Museum is open.

“This equipment will be used for general office work and administration, including taking minutes and applying for grants,” Mr Tydd said.

“It will also be invaluable in producing descriptive signage for our displays.

“On behalf of the members of the Gunnedah Rural Museum, I would like to thank Mr Coulton for supporting our organisation through the Stronger Communities Programme.”

The Stronger Communities Programme provides each electorate with $150,000 to fund small capital projects.

An additional $28.2 million was provided in the 2021-22 Budget to extend the Stronger Communities Programme to a seventh round.

More information about the SCP is available at www.business.gov.au/Grants-and-Programs/Stronger-Communities-Programme.