The fund is designed to deliver local infrastructure projects, that improve the lives of local residents, to regional communities .

Walcha Mayor Eric Noakes said Council met recently to identify, discuss and prioritise projects that fit very specific criteria.  

“All projects must be ready to commence within 12 months and be completed within two years,” Mr Noakes said.

Council prioritised four projects at the meeting.

The construction of a community gym behind the squash courts.

“This will form an integral part of a sporting precinct,” said Mr Noakes.

The refurbishment of the local swimming pool.

“The Walcha Baths facility was opened in 1970 and has reached the stage where a major upgrade is required,” Mr Noakes said.

A community service clubs storage facility.

“Clubs continue to improve and support our town and community and obviously own a vast array of equipment to provide this service,” Mr Noakes said.  “Storage of this equipment at a reasonable cost has been a longstanding issue.”

An upgrade of the kiosk,toilets and change rooms at the Walcha Oval  in Captain Cook Park.

“These facilities serve both sporting bodies and visitors and are in urgent need of renovating and updating,” said Mr Noakes.

“In prioritising these projects, Walcha Council concentrated on infrastructure that the majority of residents would benefit from.  Modern and functional infrastructure and facilities are also factors in attracting people that will continue to make Walcha prosper.” 

Council say one of the essential criteria for the Stronger Country Communities Funding application is the support of the local community for the proposed projects. 

“With this in mind, we are inviting all members of the community to submit a ‘Letter of Support’ for the listed projects stating how the projects will improve the facilities and services on offer to the Walcha community,” Mr Noakes said.  “The letters need to be received by Monday, April 30.  If you need help writing these letters, please come and see our customer service staff.”

“Over the coming weeks Council will engage with you via our website and petitions around town and an information booth outside the newsagents.

“If you have the time to take a look at the proposals and add your support it would be greatly appreciated. 

“These projects only get the thumbs up if community support is given,” said Mayor Noakes.