Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton was in Warialda last week and presented Gwydir Shire Council with a cheque in the amount of $5170 representing half of the estimated cost for this upgrade project.

Mr Coulton said that the Warialda Sporting Complex is used by a range of local sporting groups and that they are entitled to access appropriate facilities, including hot water, at the complex.

“I am very pleased that the upgrade of the hot water system at the complex will mean that members of local sporting groups, whether from Warialda or visiting the area, will benefit from a safe and reliable hot water system,” Mr Coulton said. The funding announcement is a result of round one of the coalition government’s Stronger Communities Program. 

With sporting clubs playing an integral role in our local communities, Mr Coulton said it makes perfect sense for grants to assist with the maintenance of local sporting facilities.

“Attending local sporting events over the weekend in country towns is very commonplace and communities deserve to have well maintained sporting facilities for both children and adult sporting competitions,” Mr Coulton said.

“The fact that my office received over 90 expressions of interests for projects under Round 1 of this program certainly confirms my belief that there is a need, and I am extremely pleased to be able to help do something about it.

“In western NSW, quality infrastructure can really make or break a community. 

“Our local sporting clubs and volunteer organisations are pivotal to our communities’ identities and this programme certainly goes some way to preserving and growing our local areas.”