Projects in Merredin, Goomalling, Beverley, Wundowie and Northam have received significant funding through the Wheatbelt Development Commission’s Regional Grants Scheme, made possible by the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program.
Member for Central Wheatbelt Mia Davies MLA said she was thrilled six community projects would share in almost $1.4 million.
“The scheme provides one-off grants of up to $300,000 to community, public and not-for-profit organisations to support projects driven by local communities,” Ms Davies said.
“These projects improve infrastructure, services and contribute towards the long-term sustainability of the Wheatbelt, making it a more vibrant place to live.”
Successful Regional Grants Scheme applicants in the Central Wheatbelt electorate include:
- Shire of Merredin – $150,000 to assist upgrading the CBD area including parking, footpaths, universal access and renewed landscaping.
- St John Ambulance Merredin – $230,000 to assist the Sub Centre rebuild.
- Shire of Goomalling – $269,400 for the construction of a Youth Drop-in Centre including crisis accommodation as part of the Goomalling Youth, Culture & Unity Precinct.
- Shire of Beverley – $195,000 towards Beverley Cornerstone, a multipurpose facility to provide year-round engagement of local and regional communities in education, training, employment, business incubation, tourism and community activities.
- Fluffy Ducklings Day Care Inc (Wundowie) – $236,075 to assist with Stage 1 of the extension and refurbishment of the Day Care Centre.
- Shire of Northam – $300,000 to assist with the construction of an Aboriginal Environment and Interpretive Centre.
Member for the Agricultural Region Martin Aldridge MLC said the projects would attract investment, increase job opportunities and improve the quality of life in the regions.
“Royalties for Regions continues to invest in a diverse range of projects that will enhance the Central Wheatbelt and support its residents,” he said.
In 2016-17 $10million of Royalties for Regions will be invested into the Regional Grants Scheme.
The State Government’s Royalties for Regions program has allocated $6.9 billion into more than 3,700 projects across regional WA since 2009.
