The fence at Berryman Oval in Trundle will be replaced as part of a big upgrade project.
Two Parkes Shire community organisations will be able to carry out important upgrading work following the approval of grants under the popular Stronger Communities Programme (SCP).
The Trundle Sports Council has received a $20,000 SCP grant, while Neighbourhood Central in Parkes has been approved for a $3,000 grant.
Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the Trundle Sports Council would put its grant towards upgrading Berryman Park, which included replacing fencing. Neighbourhood Central is going to use its grant to install a shade sail over its courtyard.
Trundle Sports Council spokesman Andrew Rawsthorne welcomed the SCP grant. “Berryman Park is a hub for the whole community and is really loved,” he said. “Everyone takes a great deal of pride in it.
“The community has worked tirelessly for the past 10 years to upgrade its facilities and we are just about to kick start one of the largest upgrades in the park’s history. “This funding to start the replacement of the park’s perimeter fence is a huge help and will make the park safer, particularly at night-time, and far better for the many young families who use the park every day, as well as more easily accessible and more event ready.
“We are extremely grateful for the funding.” Neighbourhood Central executive officer Dianne Scott said the shade sail would make a big difference to the courtyard. “Staff, volunteers and clients will be able to use the courtyard safely, because there is no shade there now,” she said.
Michael said $149,500 had been approved for 11 projects in the Riverina and Central West through Round 7 of SCP, a program for not-for-profit organisations which funds small capital projects that deliver important social benefits in each of the 151 Federal electorates across the country.