With each electorate entitled to $400,000 worth of funding for community-based projects, Member for Barwon, Kevin Humphries said Barwon was actually granted $410,748.

“There are some very happy campers here in Barwon this week I can tell you, and I congratulate these successful recipients," Mr Humphries said.

“There are so many worthwhile projects here in Barwon, to which many residents, often volunteers, dedicate many hours of work. It is great that these groups have had the opportunity to make their vision a reality through this funding."

He said it was disappointing that the funding did not stretch further, with many worthwhile projects missing out.

“There is a real need for more infrastructure and capital funding for community projects in our towns, and this was obvious from the strong number of applicants for the Community Building Partnership Grants.

“I have so many community groups seeking much needed funding, and while this funding goes a long way to bridge that gap, we have to ensure that our regional communities are maintained and not left to crumble.”

Successful Applicants in Barwon were as follows:

• Australian Opal Centre, construction of the Black Opal Heritage Shed and interpretive walking trail, Lightning Ridge - $39,690.00
• Baradine & District Progress Association Inc, refurbishment of multi-purpose community meeting rooms and offices, Baradine - $5,000.00
• Bourke Shire Council, upgrading of community workshop facility - $29,000.00
• Cobar Mobile Childrens Services Inc- infrastructure for resource library and upgrade on mobile base, Cobar - $21,543.00
• Cobar Shire Council, shade shelter and pathways for Euabalong community recreation precinct - $7,373.00
• Coolah Youth & Community Centre - painting the community hall interior, external woodwork and renewing guttering, Coolah - $10,000.00