The Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program will see 3300 council projects get underway around Australia, including important projects such as the construction of a skate park and upgrades to the Visitor Information Centre in Lightning Ridge.

The President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), Cr Geoff Lake welcomed the move, and is hopeful for what it will bring to communities around the country.

“Construction has started on many of these projects and we are already seeing real outcomes on the ground in local communities in terms of job creation, stimulating local demand and delivering valuable infrastructure,” Cr Lake said.

Lightning Ridge is receiving a total of $127,000 – just over a quarter of the funding allocated to the Walgett Shire Council. This money will be put towards the skate park construction, VIC upgrade, extensions to Gem Gardens, improvements to parks and the cemetery, and the installation of bike racks across town.

The skate park has been allocated $72,000, which will pay for the construction, as well as extras such as landscaping, shade areas and seating.

The Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is receiving $21,000 to put towards an extension of the facility, allowing expanding opportunities in the future. Another $10,000 will aid the refurbishment of the centre, and the installation of a disabled toilet facility, something which the centre currently does not have.

Rick Tasker, Executive Officer at the Information Centre said that the allocated money would help improve facilities not only for tourists, but for the general public and town people as well.

“Any funding the Visitor Information Centre can get is great. It helps to enhance our product, and helps us to be more professional,” Mr Tasker said.

“The more visitors we get, the more funding we get, and that helps everyone. And in a small town, that’s vital.”

Walgett Shire Mayor Ian Woodcock

was very surprised at the amount the Shire received, and said that the funds

were shared around the Shire as equally

as possible, going on population and needs.

“The construction of the skate park should start very shortly as it has to be finished by September,” Mr Woodcock said.

“As to the location, it has been suggested that it may be located between the Caravan Park and the business centre.”

Lightning Ridge received the second highest amount in the Walgett Shire Council, only $500 behind the town of Walgett.