The NSW Government has allocated $66,000 towards the upgrading of Scouts NSW facilities at Brunswick Heads, Lennox Head and Ballina.
Local Nationals Member of the Legislative Council Ben Franklin said the funding was part of $7.75 million being provided, under the Government’s COVID-19 stimulus program, for projects at Scouts facilities on Crown land.
“Scouts NSW is one of our State’s largest and most popular youth organisations that helps communities build leadership skills, resilience and friendship through healthy activities for young people, so it’s great to support them,” Mr Franklin said.
“Scouting has been operating in Australia since 1908 and this funding will help ensure a range of Scout NSW facilities are in good shape for future generations.”
The $66,000 in local upgrades to be funded by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Crown Lands includes:
- Repainting Brunswick Heads Scout Hall and safely removing old building materials that contain asbestos;
- Replacing and painting the front verandah at Lennox Head Scout Hall and safely removing asbestos; and
- Repainting and sound-proofing the inside of the Ballina Scout Hall, and installing traffic bollards to improve safety.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said communities had done it tough during COVID-19, including organisations like Scouts NSW whose activities have been disrupted.
“This funding will help Scouts NSW bounce back with improvements to facilities throughout the State, many of which are also used by other community organisations,” Mrs Pavey said.
“Upgrade work will also support local economies with work for tradies and material suppliers.”
Scouts NSW Chief Commissioner Neville Tomkins OAM welcomed the announcement.
“We are delighted with the NSW Government support that will assist an enormous number of communities,” Mr Tomkins said.
“There are many Scout roofs that need repair, kitchen and toilet blocks that require upgrading, and facilities and campsites that we want to make more accessible including for those in wheelchairs, so this funding is vital.”
Strengthening and supporting community connections is one of the key priorities of the newly launched Crown Land State Strategic Plan.
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