DAN REPACHOLI MP

MEMBER FOR HUNTER

THE HON TARA MORIARTY MLC

MINISTER FOR REGIONAL NSW

THE HON YASMIN CATLEY MP

MINISTER FOR THE HUNTER

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES IMPROVE DISASTER RESILIENCE OF UPPER HUNTER COMMUNITIES

The Albanese and Minns Governments are ensuring communities in the Upper Hunter are better prepared to withstand the impacts of future natural disasters with a range of resilience projects being delivered across the region.

Over the past four years bushfires, storms and floods have significantly impacted private and public property in the Upper Hunter.

Through three jointly funded programs under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, Upper Hunter councils are repairing or rebuilding essential public and community assets to a more resilient standard.

The Infrastructure Betterment Fund is assisting Muswellbrook Shire Council to improve water supply infrastructure at Muswellbrook and Denman, so that it can continue to operate effectively during significant rain events.

Through the Community Assets Program Dungog’s Frank Robinson Park will be upgraded with new covered seating, barbeque, solar lighting and accessible walkways. Improved pathways will also be delivered at Muswellbrook’s Karoola Park along with an accessible playground.

Singleton’s Howe Park Tennis Court complex will be refurbished with the replacement of six synthetic tennis courts, improved drainage, electrical upgrades and replacement fencing and net posts.                            

Under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, projects include the recently opened upgrade of the Singleton Showground Northern Agricultural Association Tearooms. In the event of future natural disasters, the new commercial kitchen and amenities will provide affected locals a safe central space during an evacuation.

Tourism offerings are also being enhanced with new pathways connecting Dungog township, showground camp sites and Common Reserve. In addition, at Merriwa four kilometres of cycle paths and walkways will connect local experiences and improve access for visitors.

Quotes attributable to Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi:

“The Albanese Government is pleased to work alongside the Minns Government, local Councils and communities to support disaster recovery.

“Upper Hunter communities have copped a number of disasters over the past few years, so we’re committed to supporting projects that will get people back on their feet, while making a long-term difference to the region.

“The upgrades under these three programs are enabling Upper Hunter councils to repair or rebuild essential public and community assets to a more resilient standard so we’re better prepared for future severe weather.

“As these projects are delivered they’re supporting local recovery by injecting money into local businesses, generating jobs, and in the long term they’re making regional communities safer, more comfortable places to live.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:

“It has been a difficult couple of years for communities in the Upper Hunter whose livelihoods and property have been impacted by bushfires, storms, floods and most recently drought.”

“That is why the Australian and NSW Governments are committed to supporting these initiatives that will boost preparedness for future disasters, encourage economic recovery and bring people together.”

“As these projects are delivered they are supporting local recovery by injecting money into local businesses, generating jobs and, in the long term, making regional communities safer and more comfortable places to live.

Quotes attributable to Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley:

“The Upper Hunter is a beautiful part of the country and I’m proud to see Labor governments showing leadership to make sure the locals are looked after.

“When there’s a bushfire or a flood we roll up our sleeves in the Hunter and these projects make sure we’ll protect these communities and help them get back on their feet when they need it.”