Playgrounds, barbecues, lighting, and public furniture – these are just some of the assets Junee may be able to fund in round two of the Stronger Country Community Fund grants.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The NSW Government presented more than $1 million to Junee last week to fund various sporting projects, the most notable of which was a much needed facelift for Laurie Daley Oval.
However, another eight projects did not successfully make it through round one.
Now, with seven of those eight projects still eligible for funding in the upcoming round of grants, Junee Shire Council has resolved to reapply for funding for all seven community projects.
These include $417,920 to install heating and cooling at the Athenium Theatre, a $123,223 upgrade to the aquatic centre, and $189,800 to upgrade the Lord Pavilion at the Junee Showground.
The state government has allocated a further $1.2 million to Junee Shire Council for round two projects; however, the cost of all seven projects the council will reapply for totals more than $1.5 million.
This, combined with a restriction that requires at least half of the remaining funding go towards sporting projects, ultimately means not all projects will be funded.
Councillor Pam Halliburton said she thought bringing much-needed heating and cooling to the Athenium Theatre was one of the most deserving projects.
“I believe the Athenium Theatre could be a truly wonderful asset, but it’s potential cannot be realised until we get heating and cooling,” Cr Halliburton said.
“I see a lot of potential for wedding receptions, conferences, balls, dances, plays – its endless.
“Then, I’d like to see the rest of the money allocated for non-sporting projects spread around the Shire – for example, the Old Junee Hall, the Illabo Show Ground, and the Eurongilly Hall.”
The council is also discussing the possibility of proposing several new projects during round two, as well.
Some of the projects the council is considering adding to its application include multiple playgrounds across the Shire, shade ports over the barbeque at Park Dam and at the skate park, and improved lighting on sporting fields.
With applications for round two closing on May 4, the council has invited any community groups or organisations with ideas or projects that might be eligible for funding to submit a proposal before April 13.
