This grant initiative forms part of the $10 million Stronger Communities funding that has been made available to Western Plains Regional Council by the NSW Government to initiate projects that improve community infrastructure and services. 

Through the Community Grants program Council will allocate $1 million over the next three financial years to incorporated not-for- profit community groups, for projects that build more vibrant, sustainable and inclusive local communities. Any community projects with social, cultural, economic or environmental benefits to local communities that address an identified community priority will be considered. 

This is a fantastic opportunity for community groups of all types to consider what they need to deliver better services and improve facilities right across the new Council area and many great projects could be achieved through this funding which will have lasting benefits for the local community. Application guidelines and forms available at: www.westernplains.nsw.gov.au.

Last week I attended a function at the Wellington Correctional Centre to witness the Deputy Premier and Minister for Justice the Hon Troy Grant, Minister for Corrections David Elliot and Corrective Services Commissioner Peter Severin turned the sod to mark the start of work on the new facility at Wellington Correctional Centre.

The announcement made by the NSW Government to invest in Wellington with the potential for an extra 220 jobs to be created at the Wellington Correctional Centre is a welcome one. Already the largest employer in Wellington, this would more than double the number of staff roles at the prison.

Securing jobs based in Wellington is one of the keys to successful economic development and such an influx of positions will offer new direct employment opportunities for people in Wellington as well as the potential for new and expanded businesses to service the larger facility. There is also the opportunity to attract new residents to Wellington to take up new positions which open at the facility.

After all that rain we have had, while promising a good Spring ahead, it has also had an impact on infrastructure around the region. Road repairs are under way across the LGA and some major projects like the Dubbo Weir upgrade have been delayed.

The use of machinery to dig and fill grave sites at Wellington Cemetery is unfortunately causing damage to the lawn and in some areas creating muddy patches. I have been informed that the use of the machinery was essential with some damage being unavoidable due the level of water saturation, however all due care is being taken. Cemeteries in Dubbo also have a number of wet patches due to ongoing rain and any ground repair work will be carried out as required. 

With a bit of luck all the rain is behind us for the immediate future as there are lots of events coming up around the region. Wellington Showground will play host to one of Australia’s greatest ever Jazz musicians, James Morrison, on Saturday September 3 as part of the Arts and Sculpture Festival and tickets are selling fast. Don’t miss your chance to see this incredibly talented musician in concert and grab your tickets at the Wellington Visitor Information Centre.

The Dubbo Stampede is fast approaching and even though Early bird registrations are closed, you can still be a part of this iconic local event. With a 5.5km, 10km, 21.1km and 42.2 km to choose from there is something for all abilities and ages. You can find out all you need to know by going to dubbostampede.com.au.

And finally, the Dubbo Sustainable City Expo & Science Festival will be held at the Western Plains Cultural Centre on Saturday August 27 from 10am until 2pm.

Michael Kneipp