Member for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon said the small capital grants support projects that will contribute to the vibrancy and viability of our region.

Weston Bears Football Club is among the successful applicants, and will receive $20,000 for an accessible raised viewing area at its home ground.

This viewing pad, opposite the main stand, will have ramped access and staggered seating for wheelchairs, prams and mobility scooters.

Cessnock Multipurpose Children’s Centre will receive $17,805 under the Stronger Communities Program for its Get Active Outdoors playground upgrade project.

The centre will match this funding to bring the total amount of the project to $35,612.

The project runs for two years commencing 2015-16 with grants between $5000 and $20,000 available – all applicants need to confirm matched funding in cash and/or in-kind on at least a dollar for dollar basis. 

Mr Fitzgibbon said that the community grants would be a big help to these local community groups. 

“I know how hard it is for local groups to fundraise to upgrade facilities and replace items.  It can take months and years for volunteers in small organisations to raise this type of money for capital works projects,” Mr Fitzgibbon said. 

“I congratulate and thank all of the organisations for their quality submissions,” he said.

STRONGER COMMUNITIES PROGRAM ROUND 1 RECIPIENTS (HUNTER) 

Bucketty and District Fire Brigade – $6000

Bellbird Community Hall upgrade – $10,000

Cessnock Multipurpose Centre – $17,805

Kurri Kurri Tennis Club – $20,000

Laguna Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade – $6363

Lake Liddell Recreation Area – $5000

Maitland Hockey Turf Association – $15,000

Muswellbrook Squash Courts – $15,000

Singleton Neighbourhood Centre – $20,000

Weston Bears Football Club – $20,000