It was announced that funding of $293,000 will be allocated to Crown reserves across the local region by deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Services, Andrew Stoner and Member for Orange Andrew Gee.
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Mr Gee said projects to be funded include $108,000 for Mt Arthur Reserve Trust to repair a damaged rock embankment, replace safety fencing and non-standard or damaged guard rails.
A grant of $112,332 has been approved for the Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum which will enable the Burrendong Arboretum Trust to continue their conservation work and for annual maintenance.
Geurie Racecourse and Recreation Reserve Trust has been allocated a grant of $30,000 to enable upgrades to electricity supply to three-phase power and to improve water reticulation.
“In addition to the grant, a Crown Reserve Trust loan for $45,000 has been approved to enable this work to be completed,” Mr Gee said.
“This work will benefit campers and caterers who use the facility,” he said.
“Mt Arthur is a great place of natural beauty, people from all over the world come to see this spot.”
Mr Gee said that he hoped the trust would keep applying for grants in the future to ensure the reserve would be enjoyed by the generations to come.
Chairman of the trust, Shaun Baigent, said it was vital to secure funding as without it work couldn’t be done on ensuring the safety of visitors, dealing with feral animals, protecting the environment and promoting tourism to the area.
The trust also thanked Peter James of Wellington Council who dealt with the application process.“The current people on this committee have done so well chasing every grant possible,” deputy mayor and council representative on the trust David Grant said.
“They are a like-minded bunch who want to see everything done for Mt Arthur and also show it off to tourism and it is fantastic that Andrew has been able to obtain the grants,” he said.
Mr Stoner said the funding was part of the government’s $16.9m Public Reserves Management Fund Program.
“The purpose of the Public Reserves Management Fund Program is to support the development, maintenance and protection of Crown land reserves across NSW,” Mr Stoner said.
“The grants and low interest loans offered to Crown reserve trust managers will be used to make improvements to infrastructure and amenities as well as purchase much needed equipment.
“Crown reserves are wonderful assets valued by local communities and their ongoing success is vital to sports, clubs, business and tourism in regional towns.”
