FEDERAL FUNDING FLOWS TO DROUGHT-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES IN BARKER
The Australian Government continues to back communities impacted by, and recovering from, drought, with two new projects in Barker to receive a share of more than $1.3 million in federal funding announced today under Round 22 of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together initiative.
Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the Tackling Tough Times Together program has a range of benefits, including keeping money flowing through shops and suppliers, boosting local tourism and creating jobs for drought-hit communities.
“I’m pleased to announce two new projects, worth a total of $69,067, will receive a federal funding boost to make them a reality for our communities,” Mr Pasin said.
In the electorate of Barker, projects to be funded under this latest round of grants include:
| Name | Project Title | Project Summary | Fed Gvt Grant Amount |
| District Council of Loxton Waikerie | Shine: Riverland Community Lights Project | The project will create a community arts event featuring a unique animated. | $55,859.00 |
| Moorook Hall Incorporated | Safety and Secure Storage at Moorook Community Hall | The provision of a safe contained facility with a secure boundary fence and a 20’ shipping container for secure storage of valuable towns history enabling future renovations incl museum to the rear of the hall. | $13,208.00 |
District Council of Loxton Waikerie David Beaton said “SHINE: Riverland Community Light Project funding of $55,859 is the perfect grant at this time of year when poor rainfall and hail damage have affected parts of the community, to be able to come together for this production will be much appreciated. Following on from the Kick off Your Boots production which also focussed on supporting mental health and building resilience will assist the wider community.”
“The support of the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal will ensure the event and associated infrastructure are available now and into the future.” Said Mr Beaton.
Moorook Hall Inc Chairman Stephen Munn said the committee are very grateful for the Federal Government grant and Tony’s support.
“The Moorook Hall fell into disrepair and in November 2015 a group of us locals formed a committee to save the hall and bring it back to life. Our have a drive to create a community space that is accessible and relevant. A space where the Moorook community can gather and also be used by the school and local organisations.” Mr Munn said.
“This grant will enable us to build a secure boundary fence to keep the kids safe and a shipping container to secure our valuable town.“ Mr Munn said.
The Australian Government is proud to be continuing to back regional and farming communities still feeling the impacts of drought.
Mr Pasin said this is a shot in the arm for these communities to drive their recovery from the impacts of not only drought, but now also COVID-19.
“I know only too well how long the impacts of drought are felt, and with the additional economic pinch of COVID-19 it’s important now more than ever that our Government continues to stand side by side with those hardest-hit communities.” Mr Pasin said.
More information on the Tackling Tough Times Together program and the latest round of recipients can be found on the Foundation’s website at https://frrr.org.au/TTTTor by visiting the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website at regional.gov.au/regional/programs.
ENDS.
