$1 million federal funding for Hilltops Council drought projects

Six projects submitted by Hilltops Council have been approved under the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP), receiving total funding of $1 million.

The Harden Pool project will involve the renewal and reconfiguration of the amenities building. The Boorowa Rotunda project will see a permanent, all-weather, tamper-proof public address system installed. The Burrangong Creek Precinct project will involve construction of a concrete pathway between Thornhill Street to Milo Street.

A new kerb and guttering will be constructed along Nea Street in Young. Local contractors will be engaged to undertake a weed control program including weed spraying on roadsides and reserves throughout the local government area. Four new public access bulk water standpipes will be installed at Young, Harden and Boorowa.

An adverse events plan will also be developed.

Hilltops Mayor, Councillor Brian Ingram welcomed approval of the DCP projects. “It is greatly appreciated because Local Government does not have the capacity to raise this type of funding to undertake infrastructure the scale of these projects,” Cr Ingram said.

“We will endeavour to use as many local tradespeople as we can on the DCP projects and get them under way as soon as possible.”

Member for Hume and Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said he knew how hard this drought had been and the impact it has had on so many people. “These six projects will not only provide much needed facilities to these communities but also support local jobs and business and put more money in local pockets.”

Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the projects would not only create jobs for locals but would also deliver lifestyle improvements for residents, put money into the cash registers of businesses and make Hilltops more attractive for visitors. “Thankfully, drought conditions have eased and we are looking forward to a great harvest, but rural and regional communities such as Hilltops still need support to get back on their feet after the long dry,” Mr McCormack said.

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