Funding secured for splash park facilities in Narrabri Shire

A summer splash in Narrabri Shire is about to get better, with council successful in securing $1.17 million for splash park facilities in Narrabri, Wee Waa and Boggabri.

The facilities have been an ambition of council to expand its current aquatic offerings across the three towns.

The funds have come from the NSW government’s Resources for Regions Fund. The announcement was one of three by visiting government ministers in Narrabri on Thursday.

Deputy Premier Paul Toole announced the funding for additional aquatic recreational areas alongside mayor Ron Campbell and state Member for Barwon Roy Butler.

Cr Campbell said the splash parks would further enhance existing facilities across the shire.

“This grant is a great result for our region – adding more texture to the lifestyle of the communities in our shire. With long hot summers, these splash parks will be a wonderful way for families to come together and cool off,” Cr Campbell said.

“They’ll provide unlimited opportunities for fun and quality play, and it’s another feather in our cap in terms of facilities in our region – a wonderful outcome following community engagement,” Cr Campbell said.

Mr Toole said recreational facilities are important for regional areas and provide places for families and visitors to come together and cool down for free.

“Our mining communities contribute so much to our state, and the NSW Liberal and Nationals government is committed to supporting them with the family-friendly amenities they deserve,” he said.

“Since 2012, we’ve delivered 355 projects totalling $560 million, stimulating local economies and delivering critical infrastructure to mining towns across NSW.”

State Member for Barwon Roy Butler welcomed the announcement, describing the three facilities as good things for the respective communities.

“It provides a place for locals and visitors to go and cool down during the hot summers,” he said.

“It is great to see funding for these sort of facilities, which really improve the liveability of towns in Barwon.”

The water playgrounds are among 20 projects underway in Narrabri worth $47 million as part of the Resources to Regions Fund, including major upgrades to Yarrie Lake Circuit and the Bullawa Creek bridge replacement.

The Resources for Regions Program aims to ensure a strong future for NSW mining communities by upgrading local infrastructure and amenities, revitalising townships and building essential community facilities.

The locations of the three splash parks will be a decision of Narrabri Shire Council.