Steph Cooke | 25 Jan 2023 | Community Grants Temora Shire
Families and members of the community will be among those who benefit from an upgrade to the Temora Community Centre thanks to $100,000 through the NSW Government’s Round Five of the Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was delighted to share the news with the Staff, Management Committee and volunteers of the centre this week.
“The work which the team at Temora Community Centre provides to the community is invaluable, they provide ‘hands-on support’ in a warm, welcoming and friendly environment,” Ms Cooke said.
“Thank you for the support provided by the 10 volunteers, as we all know our centres cannot operate without our amazing volunteers.”
“With the installation of access ramps and an automatic front door means access to the centre for people with disabilities or parents with prams will be that much easier.
“It is important that we work to create supportive and inclusive facilities that are physically accessible and welcoming to everyone and this project will see the centre improved so it can continue to serve locals well into the future.”
Temora Community Centre Manager Debra Patterson said they are thrilled with this funding as now they can provide an accessible entrance to the centre rather than the much less equitable rear of building access currently available.
“We are excited to be able to improve the entrance so all members of the community can enter the Centre safely, with ease and dignity,” Ms Patterson said.
The Centre has been supporting the Temora LGA since 1982, with services including a Community Hub, Child Youth and Family Support, Centrelink Agent and a range of visiting services that provide support in areas mental health, financial counselling, supported playgroup, parenting skills program, Tax Help to name a few.
Temora Community Centre employs four part-time staff, Manager/Support worker, Family Support Worker, Bookkeeper and Centrelink Agent they are also supported by 10 volunteers and a volunteer Management Committee. The volunteers provide an invaluable service by being the welcoming face at reception, preparing Plates of Plenty meal and food relief program and the background tasks of cleaning and maintenance.
Community Centres are valuable not only to residents of the local area but provide an important conduit to the community for services. Connected communities are more resilient communities. Having a more welcoming, accessible and inclusive place for people to gather and connect will foster greater social cohesion and support the community.
Since 2017, the Stronger Country Communities Fund has invested over $5.2 million for 32 projects across Temora Shire as part of the NSW Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund.
Steph Cooke | 19 Jan 2023 | Community Environment and Heritage Grants News Temora Shire Tourism
Installation of a pedestrian bridge at Lake Centenary in Temora is among 11 projects on the way for communities across the state, thanks to newly announced NSW Government funding.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said Temora Shire Council have been selected to receive $118,449 in funding from the Places to Swim grant program, which supports councils and eligible agencies to improve public access to natural waterways.
“We know our communities value the wonderful rivers, lakes and pools across NSW and, thanks to this latest round of funding, we are able to help ensure these natural wonders are safe and accessible for people of all ages,” Ms Cooke said.
“This project will install a pedestrian bridge in two parts, along the western edge of Lake Centenary to enable walkers, runners and cyclists to safely cross over Lake Centenary.”
Mayor Rick Firman said this project will support walkers, runners and cyclists to safely travel a complete loop around Lake Centenary supporting community and visitor enjoyment of this waterbody.
“The new bridge will encourage more visitors to enjoy this natural area beside the water,” Mayor Firman said.
“The bridge will be of high-quality, locally constructed and located in a pleasant setting among native trees which will become a highlight of the path around Lake Centenary.”
“This will provide a quieter more tranquil and enjoyable space for the community and enhance the existing 2.7km long lake loop which is highly valued and well used by our citizens and those visiting our Shire.”
Work on this latest pool of projects, will begin early next year with the aim of having all works completed and facilities open by mid-2024.
Steph Cooke | 18 Jan 2023 | Community Grants Local projects Temora Shire
Six local projects spearheaded by Temora Shire Council have received over $890,000 under the fifth round of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said these projects will benefit communities around the Temora Shire, with a focus on providing upgrades to parks and recreational areas.
“The planned upgrades are not only practical but will also beautify community assets, making them even more attractive places for local residents and visitors to the area to enjoy,” Ms Cooke said.
The successful projects are:
Harper Park in Ariah Park – toilets and accessibility upgrades
$100,000
Upgrade of athletics area – Nixon Park
$128,621
Nixon Park amenities building upgrades
$120,000
Temora Parks upgrades
$350,000
Bundawarrah Centre Upgrades
$100,000
Temora Recreation Centre barbecue area upgrade
$100,000
Temora Shire Mayor Cr Rick Firman said he was delighted to see this funding being put to use on projects which will enhance local spaces.
“We have so many wonderful parks, sporting areas and community facilities in the area, and the funding to improve these assets for all to enjoy is greatly appreciated,” Cr Firman said.
Since 2017, the Stronger Country Communities Fund has invested over $5.2 million for 32 projects across Temora Shire as part of the NSW Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund.
Steph Cooke | 16 Jan 2023 | Community Grants News Temora Shire
Temora Golf Club has successfully received funding of $308,271 to undertake upgrades to the club facilities through the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund Round Five.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was delighted to join members of Temora Golf Club on Friday 13 January to make this announcement.
“The upgrades will modernise the club and allow for inclusive facilities that meet the needs of patrons and visitors to the Club,” Ms Cooke said.
“The Temora Golf Club is a valued community asset with over 450 members with the course maintained predominately by volunteers.”
“These improvements will increase community participation in golf and other recreational activities.”
The upgrades to club facilities will include accessible toilets, improvements to the women’s change rooms which will include a complete refurbishment making the area slightly larger, ramp access and improvements to the lighting and ventilation.
The outdoor function area which is over 30yrs old will undergo a complete replacement with overhead heating and cooling to make a comfortable experience for patrons and visitors to the club.
Temora Golf Club run competition golf on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. In addition during daylight savings, there is a Summer Competition that brings extra participation.
Temora Gold Club welcomes visitors with social golf as an option every day with an easy walking course and meals available at the club on Friday nights, with catering available for other functions.
Temora Golf Club President Barry Flakelar said these upgrades were identified areas of improvement needed for the club as part of their strategic plan.
“The Board of Temora Golf Club greatly appreciate the significant contribution to this project. We pride ourselves in our volunteer effort. The improved facilities will benefit the whole community, bolster morale and promote participation,” Mr Flakelar said. For further information about Temora Golf Club visit: www.temoragolfclub.com.au
Steph Cooke | 23 Dec 2022 | Community Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Hilltops Council Narrandera Shire Temora Shire Weddin Shire
Young people in the region will be able to enjoy a vast range of activities during the upcoming summer school holidays, thanks to the NSW Government’s $10 million Holiday Break Program.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke welcomed the latest suite of activities and said they offer great opportunities for young people to stay connected, have fun and maybe even discover a new interest.
“Across the electorate, events and workshops will be delivered to help the youth in our region access social and recreational activities within their local communities while on their summer holiday break,” Ms Cooke said.
“These activities are a wonderful way to ensure we break down barriers for our regional youth, making it easier for them to socialise and have some fun during the summer break.”
“The NSW Government invests in this program because we know it is important to provide opportunities for young people to connect, socialise and have fun during the school holidays,” Mr Franklin said.
“We also know that keeping the kids entertained over the holidays can be costly for families, so these free activities will help to relieve the financial pressure on family budgets these Summer holidays.
“The programs on offer will provide social and recreational outlets to help regional youth become more involved in their local communities, and to show that living in a regional location is not a barrier for young people to try new things.
“Our continued program partnerships mean we’re able to deliver an assortment of activities that allow youth to hone their artistic skills, explore a completely new area of interest or get moving with a fun physical activity over the school holidays.”
A list of events across the electorate includes:
Cootamundra Youth Council
31/12/2022 7:30pm – 12:30am
New Years Eve Movie night for ages 12-17 – The Arts Centre Cootamundra.
16/01/2023 9am – 3pm
Family Fun Sports Day – Cootamundra Sports Stadium.
Teen boot camp-fun and fitness in the sun – Carberry Park (opposite Council Chambers Gundagai).
20/02/2023 2pm – 3:30pm
Skateboard and scooter lessons and grip tap art workshop – Gundagai Skate Park.
13/01/2023 6pm – 9pm
Open Night at the Gundagai Pool – Swimming, games and giveaways – Gundagai. Memorial Pool.
Hilltops Youth Action Group
29/01/2023
Back 2 Skool Pool Party featuring the World’s oldest Rocking DJ’s & Nursing home escapee’s the Rockafellas.
Temora Shire Council
05/01/2023 9am -10:30am
Cooking Class with Local Caterer – Platform Y.
06/01/2023 9:45am – 3pm
Trip to Wagga with lasertag and Shopping time – Platform Y.
09/01/2023 9:30am – 10:15am
Yoga Class for ages 12-24 – Platform Y.
09/01/2023 11am – 2:30pm
Mixed Media Art Workshop – Platform Y.
12/01/2023 10am – 11:30am
Gaming Day – including VR headsets – Platform Y.
Narrandera Shire Council
04/01/2023 – 03/02/2023 10am -9pm
The Summer Sessions will include two Paint with mates sessions, a cultural tour and an afternoon of music followed by a movie night – Lake Talbot Water Park.
Weddin Shire Council
21/01/2023 10am – 7pm
Beach themed pool party. Laser Tag, Water inflatables, Craft activities and beach themed catering. To find out more about activities near you and for program guidelines, visit nsw.gov.au/ holidaybreak
Steph Cooke | 21 Dec 2022 | Community Grants Local projects Sport and Recreation Temora Shire
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke was excited to attend the opening of the upgrades to the Temora Swimming pool recently. These upgrades were completed thanks in part to a $990,000 contribution from the NSW Government’s Greater Cities and Regional Sport Facility Fund, with funding of $1.21 million co-contributed by Temora Shire Council.
“These upgrades create an accessible and friendly sporting facility, for locals and visitors alike to utilise for generations to come,” Ms Cooke said.
“I congratulate ELM Aquatics, based in Griffith for their fantastic workmanship. Mark McLean and his team have delivered an outstanding project in record time, despite the most challenging of weather during the building process.”
The project has achieved the key objectives of the fund to improve the standard of an existing sporting facility and enables increased participation in the sport of swimming, through the provision of a widened, relined and accessible 50m swimming pool.
Part of the upgrades include in pool steps, pool widening to 15 metres, an increase of lanes, relining the pool and relocating the diving board.
Temora Shire Council Mayor Mr Rick Firman said the project is the major achievement of the long-term vision of Council and the community, driven by a community working group, which has supported other significant projects along the journey, including the indoor heated pool, amenities upgrade, kiosk upgrade, front building entrance upgrade, waterslide, splash park and disability change room, water wheelchair and hoist.
“The 50m pool is a modern, accessible swimming complex for the community to enjoy participating in swimming for recreation, fitness and sport, which has both physical and mental health benefits,” Mr Firman said.
“The increased usage will enable a greater level of community connectivity and social inclusion, as the swimming pool provides a destination for residents to enjoy time with family and friends during the warmer months.
Steph Cooke | 21 Dec 2022 | Coolamon Shire Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Cowra Shire Narrandera Shire Temora Shire
Funding of over $867,000 has been secured to improve and upgrade Crown Land reserves and facilities across the Cootamundra electorate under the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has welcomed the funding, which will provide benefits to the community, boost the local economy and contribute to the cultural, sporting and recreational life of the region.
“Crown reserves provide land for sport and recreation, homes for community organisations, open space for healthy lifestyles, and protect our environment including sensitive habitat for native plants and animals,” Ms Cooke said.
“It’s fantastic that funding has been allocated to support local reserves and community facilities right across the Cootamundra electorate.”
Projects being funded include:
$625,068 for Cowra Showground, Racecourse and Paceway to upgrade its ageing electrical system and build a large all-weather undercover area for horse riders which includes Riding for the Disabled.
$16,731 for Bellevue Hill reserve in Cowra to restore habitat by removing weeds, shrubs and trees and replace them with native trees and grasses.
$173,985 for Lake Talbot Reserve in Narrandera to upgrade the barbecue shelter, seats, stairs and walking trails, and make it more accessible.
$18,105 for Coolac Public Hall to build an amenities block with separate men’s and women’s toilets and a toilet accessible for people with wheelchairs.
$18,097 for Ganmain Showground to replace benchtops in the main pavilion and lay concrete under the awning of the new Lifestyle Pavilion.
$8,847 for Sebastapol Travelling Stock Reserve for a new fence and signs to stop the public entering due to danger from old mine shafts.
$6,750 for Bectric Hall and Recreation Reserve to paint and provide maintenance upgrades to the amenities and exterior roof of the hall .
Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said Crown land covers about 34 million hectares or 42 per cent of NSW, with over 34,000 reserves across the state.
“Crown reserves provide communities with land for everything from showgrounds, racecourses, surf lifesaving clubs and community halls to parks, ovals, green space and walking trails,” Mr Anderson said.
“The Cootamundra grants are part of $16.48 million being offered statewide to support 264 projects that will benefit many thousands of people and the cultural, sporting and recreational life of hundreds of local communities.” For further information on Crown Reserves Improvement Fund please visit: https://reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au/funding/crif
Steph Cooke | 21 Dec 2022 | Community Roads and Transport Temora Shire
Walking and cycling is set to get safer and simpler in Temora after securing funding through the $117 million Get NSW Active program.
Get NSW Active provides funding for local projects that encourage vibrant centres and liveable neighbourhoods through the creation of street environments that prioritise walking and cycling.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the funding would go towards strengthening active transport in the community, making it easier for people to get from A to B in a way that doesn’t always involve getting in the car.
“Not only does active transport give people options on how they want to get around, but it really lifts community spirit to see families, groups and individuals walking and cycling around,” Ms Cooke said.
Projects that have been funded include:
Construct a footpath on the eastern side of Aurora Street, from Anzac Street to Polaris Street – $55,000
Construct new footpath on the eastern side of Crowley Street, between Polaris Street and Grey Street – $55,000
“Members of our community will soon see these projects come to life and reap the very real benefits of an area that has a strong active transport infrastructure pipeline.”
These projects will now be progressed and delivered by Temora Shire Council.
Minister for Active Transport Rob Stokes said the third and final tranche of the 2022 program would see $77 million in funding for 161 projects across 45 councils.
“For children, older people, parents pushing prams or people with disabilities – a street without a footpath isn’t an inconvenience – it’s a barrier to moving freely in public space,” Mr Stokes said. A full list of successful applicants please visit: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/walking-and-cycling-program
Steph Cooke | 20 Dec 2022 | Community Crown Lands News Temora Shire
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke congratulated local volunteer Jone Pavelic for winning the NSW Government’s Individual Excellence in Crown Land Management Award.
Ms Cooke said Jone won the prestigious statewide award for her outstanding work at Temora Showground, a multi-use facility on Crown land that is central to the life of the community and the wider region.
“Jone has done a fantastic job as Chair of the Temora Showground Land Managers, even serving as the front-line point of contact for all bookings for the showground and its caravan park,” Ms Cooke said.
“I also congratulate Debbie Coddington who was shortlisted as Secretary of the Bectric Hall Committee after sourcing grants to build a camp kitchen and restore the roof so the historic 1904 hall could be opened up to campers.”
The 2022 Community Achievement Awards for Regional NSW and the ACT recognise Crown land managers who make outstanding contributions managing Crown reserves.
The Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands sponsored three awards which were announced on 25 November:
Individual Excellence in Crown Land Management Award for volunteers
Crown Land Management Excellence Award for organisations; and
Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award for local councils.
Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said Crown reserves include everything from showgrounds and racecourses to parks, recreational trails, caravan parks, public halls, Scouts halls and Girl Guides halls.
“Crown land managers include volunteers and organisations who do great work improving and maintaining reserves for their communities,” Mr Anderson said.
“There are over 34,000 Crown reserves in NSW with many at the centre of community life supporting recreation, culture and local economies.”
Steph Cooke | 20 Dec 2022 | Community Grants Temora Shire
Temora Shire Council have been successful in receiving funding of $15,000 to host their ‘Embrace Festival’ thanks to more than $1 million in grant funding awarded by the NSW Government through the Stronger Together Festival and Events Grants program.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said Temora Shire Council were among 122 to successfully receive a share of the funding to host local events and festivals.
“Our local streets are set to become so much brighter thanks to these events,” Ms Cookesaid.
“It is important to celebrate our cultural diversity, bringing people together and breaking down barriers.”
Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said the grants program had been boosted from $500,000 to $1 million thanks to the 2022-23 NSW Budget.
“Through the Stronger Together Festivals Grants program, the NSW Liberals and Nationals have funded 283 community organisations with $2,098,329 to host events and festivals in their local areas,” Mr Coure said.
“Each of these events is a reflection of the rich diversity of our communities right across the state.”
“This is one of the great things about our diversity here in NSW; you don’t need to travel overseas to experience the colour and vibrancy of other cultures, you can do it right here at home.”
The Stronger Together Festival and Events Grants program provides funding from $5,000 to $15,000 for celebrations to be held between 1 February and 30 June 2023. For more information about the Stronger Together Festival and Events Grants program, visit www.multicultural.nsw.gov.au
