The Anna Bay All Abilities Playground was one of the big winners to share in $300,000 in grants secured by State MP, Kate Washington.
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A total of 17 schools, youth groups and sporting clubs were awarded grants covering the entire Port Stephens electorate.
Ms Washington said that three schools, five youth groups, six sporting facilities and three community facilities would receive funding from the 2020 NSW Community Building Partnership program.
"The Anna Bay All Abilities park proposed for Fishermans Bay Road (behind the Anna Bay Scout Hall) will receive $30,000 in seed-funding to kick-start that important community project," she said.
Project president Dave Sams said that the money would be used to plan stage one of the disability-friendly park.
"We plan to remove the old power poles and clubhouse located near the old tennis courts in preparation for a multi-purpose facility and designated carparking," he said.
The proposed playground, expected to cost in the millions of dollars, is already on the Port Stephens Council strategic plan for construction within 10 years. Central Ward councillor Chris Doohan said he hoped the $30,000 would go some way to kick start a big dream for the people of Anna Bay.
"This is the first of many stages," he said.
The park also has the support of Cr Sarah Smith.
Ms Washington said that Iona Public School in Woodville would also receive $30,000 to upgrade their playground area, while the Tilligerry Scouts would use their $22,000 grant to install rooftop solar to improve the functionality of their community hall.
"It was great to see much-needed funding going towards worthwhile projects supporting our local schools, youth groups and sporting clubs," she said. "Every application for this grant was deserving, especially given fundraising has been difficult in 2020. Thank you to all of the hardworking community organisations that applied and congratulations to those that were successful this year."
More than $1.5 million worth of applications were received this year, with $300,000 available to Port Stephens project.
Other winners included Soldiers Point Public School $19,935; Anna Bay Public School $16,052; Nelson Bay Girl Guides $12,995; PCYC Raymond Terrace $12,000; Raymond Terrace Scouts $6,127; Novacare Community Services at Salamander Bay $16,049; Port Stephens Council's Seaham Park $15,000; Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club, Soldiers Point $12,210; Hunter Valley Motorcycle Club, Eagleton $7,500; Nelson Bay Croquet Club $5,000; Port Stephens Church of Christ at Salt Ash $15,000; and Tilligerry Community Association in Tanilba Bay $12,000.