Community grants to create a lasting legacy across regional NSW

Seventy community groups have received grants for a wide range of initiatives across regional NSW including: Coleambally, Lockhart, Urangeline, Wentworth, Tumbarumba, Wagga Wagga, Murrumbidgee, Batlow, Yass, Moulamein, Wanganella, Lithgow, Orange, Goulburn and Marulan.

Executive General Manager of Stakeholder, Regulatory and Corporate Affairs Maryanne Graham said: “Transgrid is committed to maximising social and economic benefits in local communities across our network and in areas where new clean energy transmission projects are being delivered.

“These not-for-profit groups are the lifeblood of their local communities, and we are proud to support initiatives that make a positive difference to the lives of local residents.

“This round of grants will fund facilities, equipment, services, events, programs and activities, helping to empower not-for-profit groups and volunteers and enrich the local communities they serve.

“Transgrid is pleased to be contributing to the long-term sustainability of regional NSW and leaving a lasting and meaningful legacy in local communities.”

Grant recipients and initiatives include:

• Country Education Foundation of Coleambally-Darlington Point Inc – providing education grants to support young people as they pursue studies at university, TAFE, and through traineeships
• Urangeline Peace Hall – a fence to enhance safety and security for visitors
• Coleambally Pre-School – an outdoor baby play area to create a safe and fun space
• Tumbarumba High School – a greenhouse to expand its nursery and offer hands-on learning opportunities
• Wagga Wagga Boys to the Bush – a BBQ trailer to support community engagement and outdoor activities
• Riverina Community College (Wagga Wagga) – a beauty and wellness empowerment program for Indigenous women
• Kurrajong Waratah – a sensory drama program to support people with disabilities through creative expression
• Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council – a community and school-based education planting event to promote environmental awareness
• Deniliquin Outback Theatre for Young People – a program for young people to develop new skills and broaden their understanding of creative practices
• Creeks Cricket Club (Singleton) – a defibrillator to enhance safety during games and community events.

Nannas Touch Community Connections will buy wicking beds for the Lithgow Community Garden to increase growing capacity, reduce water usage, allow all year round growing, and make the garden fully accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

Nannas Touch Community Connections Secretary Leanne Walding said: “We are super excited and grateful for receiving this grant and are ready to make changes to our community and provide a platform for sustainability and growth.

“Our organisation will be the first to pilot this type of gardening in our local area and encourage people to explore the power of sustainable gardens to support healthy eating.”

Edward River Arts Society at Deniliquin are using funding to build a workshop space to provide a safe and accessible place for community members to connect.

“The funding received from Transgrid means we can confidently provide a calendar of events and workshops, while improving the connection between artists, volunteers, visitors, and community groups for which we are extremely grateful,” Edward River Arts Society Vice-President Ginny Reid said.

Creeks Cricket Club at Singleton intend to purchase a defibrillator for emergencies.

Club Secretary Blake Cook said: “We are one of five remaining cricket clubs in the Singleton region with a family-friendly approach to club life.

“Cricket, being a sport played in summer, has its risk with heat exposure and sun stroke. We have had instances where an ambulance has had to be called for players suffering from heart-related issues.

“We are grateful for the funding and aim to provide a safer environment for junior and senior cricket to be played.”

A full list of grant recipients is available here: https://www.transgrid.com.au/community/community-partnerships-program/community-partnerships-program-recipients/

For more information about the next round of Transgrid’s Community Partnerships Program, visit https://www.transgrid.com.au/community/community-partnerships-program/

Media enquiries: Jaryd Ramsey 0407 102 396