Funding to upgrade public facilities in the Kempsey Shire

Published on 09 February 2022

Local community facilities and reserves will receive an important boost following funding awarded to three projects in the Kempsey Shire.

Member for Oxley, Melinda Pavey, has announced on Tuesday that the NSW Government will deliver $113,851 to improve Crown land reserves and community facilities in the Kempsey Shire, thanks to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund program

Kempsey Shire Council Mayor, Leo Hauville, said the improvements to these public spaces and facilities will not only create more idyllic community areas but will also help maintain and support the Macleay Valley's rich ecosystems.

"The funding is going to help South West Rocks Public Hall replace its roof and as we all know, halls are so important in bringing people together for community events and act as a safe place in times of crisis," said Councillor Hauville.

"We'll also see $54,000 go towards tacking high priority weeds Cockspur Coral and Tropical Soda Apple in riparian zones along the Macleay River. These two weeds especially have a high adverse impact on the beef and dairy pastures of our shire and continuing the war on weeds in the shire is vital in protecting the biodiversity of the region."

Member for Oxley, Melinda Pavey, said the funding is being provided by the NSW Government under its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund program and will be a great asset to the community.

"Crown reserves provide land for recreation, community organisations and facilities, and protect our environment including habitat for native plants and animals,” Ms Pavey said.

"Maintaining and enhancing our Crown reserves means residents have access to quality spaces for sports and fitness, or to just relax, rejuvenate and get in touch with nature and each other.”

The projects funded within the Kempsey Shire are as follows:

• South West Rocks Public Hall: replacement of the hall roof $59,851
• Commons Parish Reserve for Kempsey, : control of Cockspur Coral Tree at the Macleay River Mid Estuary $10,000
• Macleay River Catchment: control of Tropical Soda Apple $44,000

Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said Crown reserves play an important role in business, tourism, recreation, well-being and the biodiversity of the state which is why the NSW Government is delivering this funding.

Crown land covers around 34 million hectares or 42 per cent of NSW and we have about 35,000 Crown reserves that accommodate parks, community halls, nature areas, showgrounds, sporting facilities, camping areas and walking tracks,” Mr Anderson said.

They also provide support to community groups like Men’s Sheds, Police Citizens Youth Clubs, Surf Life Saving clubs Scouts and Girl Guides. These groups all do amazing work which is why it is so important the NSW Government continues to support them.

These projects funded by the NSW Government will benefit many thousands of people and contribute to the cultural, sporting and recreational life of hundreds of communities with the potential to provide stimulus to local economies and create jobs.”

For more information, please head to Crown Reserves Improvement Fund