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Sat. Jan 25th, 2025

The Albanese government has announced a boom of Federal funding for New England towns in the run-up to the election, with Tamworth, Glen Innes, Tenterfield, and Inverell to receive cash for major infrastructure projects.

Tamworth will receive $9 million for the long-anticipated Northern Inland Aquatic, Education, and Health Centre of Excellence, Tenterfield will receive $8.2 million for the Angry Bulls Adventure Trail Tourism destination, Glen Innes will get $600,000 towards is ANZAC park upgrade, and Inverell will receive $550,226 towards its Lake Inverell revamp.

“Quality infrastructure in regional areas is invaluable and this funding will build and upgrade key facilities that can be enjoyed by communities for years to come.” said Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King.

“As social interactions change, community infrastructure is more important than ever, which is why the Albanese Labor Government is investing in projects that provide spaces for communities to gather and rebuild social connection.”

Tamworth celebrates a step closer to swimming excellence

The funding has been welcomed by Tamworth Mayor Russell Webb, who stated that a year-round swim centre has been something needed by the town.

“This is a win for our community who will benefit from this much-needed year-round aquatics and health facility,” Cr Webb said.

“Successive Councils stretching back some 20 years have been talking about securing funding for a facility like this to benefit our growing community into the future – and it’s such a thrill to now have it.”

The facility has been a long-term project for Tamworth Regional Council, with talks of an all-weather swimming facility stretching back two decades and has been spruiked by Council as needed to provide residents with modern swimming facilities and accommodate a growing population.

Tenterfield trails to soar

Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce was grateful for the funding at a doorstop press event this week, where he had just returned from Tenterfield – a growing town that, he said, newly arrived residents from the coast are calling “West Bangalow”.

“It’s very prescient,” Joyce said.

“From people from Byron Bay having a place in Tenterfield – some of the are calling it ‘West Bangalow’ as they come up the hill.”

Tenterfield, Joyce says, is becoming “an area where people of, quite frankly, substantial wealth, who have a place that might be a little bit hot, a little bit humid – but then they have a place in Tenterfield where they have a different lifestyle, different garden, and that’s part of the tourism trade.”

Despite the funding coming from the Labor government, Joyce said he was willing to take funding wherever he can get it.

“I’m not being sulky,” he said, “These are some great wins, and I thank the Minister for them.”

Joyce said he had been talking about continued funding should the Coalition win this year.

“I’ve been in discussions about that in Brisbane to try and put flesh on the bone.

“I’m certain that in a Coalition which relies on regional seats we’ll have to get things like that.”

Kids and families win in Glen Innes

Glen Innes Severn Council was delighted to announce the progression of the ANZAC Park Playground Upgrade, now backed by an additional $600,000 in funding.

This new funding builds on the $500,000 secured in 2022 through the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 5.

Council has also committed $100,000 to this transformative project, bringing the total investment to $1.2 million.

The existing playground in ANZAC Park is in need of an upgrade, with increased demand for modern, accessible, inclusive and family-friendly recreational spaces. In September 2022, a letter representing parents in the local government area was sent to Council, advocating for a new playground to better serve the community’s needs.

The new playground will replace the existing facility, delivering a large-scale, inclusive space designed for families and all members of the community.

“I am thrilled to see this important upgrade to ANZAC Park Playground moving forward. With the additional funding, we are committed to creating a modern, inclusive and family-friendly space that will benefit the entire community and visitors.” Said Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor Margot Davis.

“The feedback we’ve received, particularly from local parents, has highlighted the need for an upgraded facility, and this project will deliver exactly that. We look forward to working with the community to ensure this new playground meets the needs of all ages and abilities and provides a safe, enjoyable space for everyone,” she added.

Community consultation will take place in early February 2025, where residents will have 28 days to provide feedback on the proposed design options for the new playground.

Construction will follow after the consultation period.

Lake Inverell to look better than ever

The $1.1M Lake Inverell Enhancement Project aims to improve accessibility, functionality, and visitor experiences while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Key initiatives include:

• Expanding the current shelter at the Lake Inverell Off-Road Circuit to include a BBQ area and seating, to support events and social activities.

• Constructing a finishing line structure to attract events and boost the visitor economy.

• Installing an 800m kangaroo proof fence to enhance safety for off-road circuit users.

• Adding solar bollard lights along pathways to improve safety and visual appeal.

• Extending the existing concrete footpath at Lake Inverell for all-weather, all-abilities access, encouraging recreation and exploration of the lake’s natural beauty. The extension will create a loop that will join to the off-road circuit.

• Building three all-access fishing platforms for recreational use and educational opportunities.

• Creating an elevated viewing platform and picnic area for families to enjoy serene lake views and the abundant birdlife.

“Extensive planning and stakeholder consultation has ensured the project aligns with community needs while safeguarding the precinct for future generations. These enhancements reflect Council’s commitment to fostering accessibility, sustainability, and community wellbeing.” said Mayor of Inverell Shire, Cr Kate Dight.

Council will be calling for tenders for various components, with commencement of the project scheduled for July 2025.


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