The Hon Catherine King MP

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

The Hon Kristy McBain MP

Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories

Member for Eden-Monaro

The Albanese Labor Government continues to invest in the liveability, sustainability and resilience of regional, rural and remote communities – with over $811,000 in grants flowing to 52 local-led projects across the country, including at the bushfire-affected Murrah Hall.

The Murrah Hall was heroicly saved by local firefighters during the Coolagolite Road Bushfire in October last year, however the site sustained significant damage.

Murrah Metamorphosis will receive $49,372 towards an outdoor mini amphitheatre at the Murrah Hall– which is a hub for local events and forms a rich part of the Bega Valley’s history.

This funding will be delivered through the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities program, and grants of up to $50,000 will support local organisations to uplift their communities, following significant disruption following disasters and Covid-19.

From improving equipment and facilities at community hubs, to workshops and education programs that will increase community engagement – these small-scale projects will be high impact.

The funding is part of the Albanese Government’s $5 million investment from 2022 to 2024 in the Rebuilding Regional Communities stream of the FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities program.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“These projects, supported by the Australian Government, encourage people to get out in their community, engage with different local businesses and try new experiences – which will drive employment and economic opportunities.

“The funding assists locally-led projects to stimulate jobs, wellbeing and the economy in regional, rural and remote communities.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain:

“The Murrah Hall is a local icon – it’s a place where people come together in happy times and in sad times.

“Our community came very close to losing this incredible local asset last year, which has a history dating back to 1903.

“I’m so pleased this funding will help revitalise the outdoor area, much of which was fire-affected.

“Thank you to the stream of volunteers at the Murrah Hall Preservation Association Inc. who have rallied around this cherished hall and worked so hard to secure this funding.”

Quotes attributable to FRRR Place Portfolio Lead, Jill Karena:

“This round, projects ranged from domestic violence support and mentoring programs, to food security and tourism initiatives to help rebuild the local economy.

“There was really strong demand for support to enhance community infrastructure, particularly maintaining meeting places so people can come together and strengthen local connections.

“We also saw a focus on infrastructure in the COVID recovery grants, with groups aiming to enhance community resilience in the face of disruptions, whether they be environmental or health related.”