Parkes Shire Council and CMOC-Northparkes Mines have partnered again to extend the Parkes Shire Grants and Aboriginal Project Officer positions for an additional three years.
Both roles were established to build capacity, achieve long-term sustainability for community-based projects and initiatives, and deliver improved outcomes for residents. “The partnership is creating value and opportunities
for the community that neither organisation could achieve on their own,” said Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Keith OAM.
Northparkes acting Managing Director Hubert Lehman said, “We’ve been operating in Parkes for over 24 years and we understand the vital role these positions have played in delivering improved outcomes for the residents of the shire.”
Between 2013 and 2018, the grants team have submitted 412 successful grant submissions, securing over $35.5 million in grant funding for the Parkes Shire. Furthermore, 167 community groups have been assisted with funding applications, with over 300 representatives from community and sporting organisations attending grant writing workshops and presentations.
Recent big wins for the community include, $4.2 million for the Parkes CBD Vibrancy project, $9 million for the Recycled Water Rising Main, $2.2 million for Parkes Shire Library expansion and more than $1.7 million
towards township infrastructure projects.
The Aboriginal Project Officer role, based out of Neighbourhood Central, has led to significant advancements in health, culture and reconciliation between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
Some of the positive initiatives supported by the Aboriginal Project Officer include free outreach eye and dental clinics in Parkes and Peak Hill, free health checks, free hearing checks, the establishment of a homework centre, as well as the establishment of a Boys and a Girls Group in Peak Hill.