Cowper MP Pat Conaghan says Kempsey PCYC will use a $12,500 grant to revitalise a dilapidated area at the rear of their premises in South Kempsey.

The grant was made available under round 6 of the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

Mr Conaghan said the program is used to upgrade sporting facilities, purchase equipment and improvements to public spaces.

“The projects aim to encourage and support participation in local projects, improve local community participation and contribute to vibrant and viable communities,” Mr Conaghan said.

“This project will convert an unused area to a cultural garden which will include a large covered area with an outside kitchen surrounded by raised garden beds for traditional food growing.

“PCYC proposes the space will be well used with numerous programs/groups access the new space, including holiday programs, school-based programs, sports classes and afternoon activities to create an alternative space available at the club.”

Kempsey PCYC manager Anika Vidler said the area would be covered making it more usable in all weather conditions while increasing space at the club.

“The area will have raised garden beds featuring traditional food along with an outdoor kitchen for preparing traditional food as well as food for other regular programs including our Friday night program,” she said.

“A range of cultural learning tools and materials will be purchased and used in the space during the delivery of programs.

“We want the area to be a safe place used by Elders and youth to reconnect and to also share cultural stories and history.”

Mr Conaghan said the expanded usable space will meet the increasing community engagement currently being experienced at the PCYC.

“The ongoing importance of this project is the therapeutic, cultural and educational value it has for PCYC members and community groups. For PCYC, this will be a key activity component providing ‘hands on’ opportunities for young people,” he said.

Twenty local projects are featured in Round 6 of the Stronger Communities Program utilising up to $150,000 in funds.  Projects will be completed by December 31, 2021.

For more information on Round 6 Stronger Communities Program go to – https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/stronger-communities-programme