Funding boost for Far West NSW communities

Thirty-four not-for-profit groups across Broken Hill, Menindee, White Cliffs and Wilcannia have received grants of up to $10,000 to boost community facilities, services, events and initiatives.

Transgrid General Manager of Community and Social Licence Michael Johnson said: “We are proud to partner with these not-for-profit groups to make a meaningful difference to communities across Far West NSW.

“The initiatives funded under our Far West NSW Community Partnerships Program reflect the creativity, resilience and passion of people across the region.

“The program has now provided a total of $500,000 in funding to 77 community groups, and we’re excited to see these projects deliver positive outcomes for years to come.”

Menindee Charities Incorporated will use its grant to upgrade the Menindee Op Shop with much-needed electrical works and sustainability improvements to enable further benefits to the Menindee Health Service and local community.

“The Menindee Op Shop is housed in what was a butcher shop built in the 1960s, whereby only necessary band-aid electrical works had been undertaken since the build,” Menindee Charities Incorporated Treasurer Margot Muscat said.

“The initiative of electrical upgrades in the shop will provide for a sustainable future with energy efficient lighting, power, cooling and heating, easing the pressure on power costs for the association.

“Without this funding it would take us years to upgrade our shop. With Transgrid’s help we are grateful to be able to deliver a safer and more comfortable environment for our volunteers and the community.”

Wilcannia Safehouse will use its funding to purchase a large chiller refrigerator, ensuring fresh and nutritious food can be stored safely for women and children seeking refuge.

“This funding is incredibly valuable to Domestic Violence Service Management and the Wilcannia community,” Wilcannia Safehouse CEO Stephanie Smith said.

“It will allow us to safely store fresh food and offer refrigeration support to families, helping reduce food waste and ensuring continued access to healthy meals in challenging times.”

The $500,000 program is in addition to the $1.5 million contribution to the NSW Government’s community support package for residents and businesses affected by the power outages in Far West NSW following the extreme weather event last year.

Details of all recipients and their projects are available at: https://www.transgrid.com.au/community/broken-hill-and-far-west-nsw-community-partnerships-program/

Media enquiries: Jaryd Ramsey – 0407 132 406