Seven community groups in the Riverina and Central West are among those who have received vital grants of between $1000 and $4000 in round five of the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program.
NSW Nationals Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the Australian Rail Track Corporation had granted more than $300,000 to schools, volunteer groups and associations as part of a long-standing commitment to communities where Australia’s largest freight project is being built and operated.
“Inland Rail is nation-building infrastructure providing long-term opportunities for our regions – boosting jobs and economic confidence in regional communities across the country,” Mr McCormack said.
“I am pleased so many of our local organisations are benefiting from this funding, because I know every single dollar will be put to good use.
“We are already seeing the immediate benefits from Inland Rail, with more than 690 local jobs and businesses boosted by the $100 million in local contract commitments flowing from construction of the Parkes to Narromine section.
“Supporting the sustainability of these and other communities along the rail corridor is paramount and the Inland Rail sponsorships and donations program is yet another example of how communities can benefit from this unique project.
“Here in the Riverina and across our regions, it is the community clubs and associations bringing us together.
“I am pleased to see this program providing a well-deserved contribution to local initiatives, building community prosperity.”
The local recipients for round five of the Inland Rail Sponsorships and Donations program include:
- $4000 to the Junee Basketball Association for the purchase of scoring benches at the local recreational centre
- $4000 to the WIRED Lab Cootamundra to upgrade online infrastructure that will enable community members to participate online
- $4000 to Silo FM 89.5 Inc. for the purchase of new broadcasting equipment for community radio
- $3500 to Kurrajong Waratah for the purchase of a weatherproof shelter for the community gardens as part of the Hildasid Farm Project
- $2837 to the Central West Astronomical Society for the purchase of a data projector and batteries
- $1136 to Wirrinya Progress and Sports Association for the purchase of tennis court nets for children’s activities
- $1100 to the Parkes Que Club to provide domestic violence bags for women and children
For more information on the Inland Rail sponsorships and donations program, please visit the ARTC Inland Rail website inlandrail.com.au/sponsorships, or email enquiries to IRCommunitySponsorships@ARTC.com.au.
