Miners Memorial gets Federal funds

Cobar Shire Council will now be able to go ahead and build a new Miners Memorial structure in the Heritage Park, thanks to $349,777 in Federal Government funding.

The funding was announced this week by Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, and is part of the Coalition Government’s Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects stream.

Mr Coulton said the Cobar Miners Memorial will promote educational opportunities and safeguard cultural history.

“This is a fantastic outcome for Cobar, which has a rich and extensive history in mining,” Mr Coulton said.

“Open to the public 24/7, it will be an appropriate place for services and community gatherings.

“This project will have a positive flow-on effect across town, ensuring our wider region continues to thrive and prosper into the future.

“I’m pleased to see this significant investment in building a stronger economy.”

Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the project will deliver significant economic and social benefits to the community.

“Under round two of the Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects stream, the Coalition Government is investing well over $200 million in 136 projects,” Dr McVeigh said.

“This means local projects are receiving the funds needed to take a big idea and make it a reality.”

Mr Coulton will be in Cobar today to formally hand over the funding for the Miners Memorial along with grant funding for an Armistices Day local project and also $37,500 for Council’s Grey Mardi Gras Festival which is planned for April or May next year, which was announced last week.