A skatepark for Broadwater, an adventure playground for Woodburn and a study into a rail trail between Casino and Lismore are among promises made by Labor candidate for Page Janelle Saffin.
Ms Saffin said a Labor government would provide $2.9 million for a community infrastructure program to build and upgrade sport and recreational facilities for local families on the Nnorth Coast and northern Rivers.
The package includes:
- Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Club – $1.2 million
- Rushworth Park soccer complex upgrade – $1 million
- Broadwater Skate Park – $210,000
- Casino to Lismore Rail Trail feasibility study – $65,000
- Woodburn Riverside Adventure Playground – $250,00
- Casino Showgrounds Canteen Facility – $180,000
- Woodburn Riverside Pontoon – $110,000
- Colley Park Sports Centre – $150,000
Ms Saffin said the program was designed to allow more people to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles, and to build more connected communities.
‘Modern technology means that people are spending more time on computers and electronic devices – and less time being physically or socially active – than ever before.
‘This is having a pronounced impact on the way our communities function, with fewer people getting involved in local organisations such as sporting clubs or community groups.
‘It’s also having an impact on our health, with the alarming rise of chronic conditions such as diabetes.
‘That’s why it’s so important that we invest in facilities that encourage people to get out of their lounge rooms, being active and social, and participating in community life.
‘The Community Infrastructure Program will not only improve regional sporting facilities, it will ensure local families have access to playgrounds, parks and trails.’
Ms Saffin said she would also fight to deliver funding support for a range of other important local projects, including:
- Alstonville swimming pool upgrade – $4m
- Albert Park Baseball Complex upgrade – $4m
- Oakes Oval upgrade (1.4m)
- Replacing wooden bridges in Kyogle – $5m
- Woolgoolga Multi-Purpose Centre – $2.5m
- Sustainable Economy Jobs Officers – to be employed within local councils $3m
- Small Towns & Villages scheme to upgrade local community facilities and encourage use of solar energy – $3m
- Grafton Men’s shed – $350,000
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