Minister for Racing Paul Toole and Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke today announced $203,700 for a major upgrade to Cowra Golf Club’s clubhouse.
Minister Toole said the project is one of 26 successful projects across NSW funded under the latest round of the Clubgrants category three infrastructure program.
“Over $50 million in Clubgrants infrastructure funding is being provided in the current term of government for projects across sport and recreation, emergency preparedness, and arts and culture,” the Minister said.
The grants, funded through a rebate on the state’s registered clubs’ gaming machines, reinvest profits back into community projects.
“Our Government is pleased to provide this funding to help more people experience the many benefits of taking part in sport and leisure activities including improved fitness and well-being and greater social interaction,” Minister Toole said.
The NSW Government improved the program in 2017 to give community organisations more opportunities to apply for a wider range of projects.
“New funding options are encouraging more diverse projects, and a streamlined application process is cutting red tape and allowing for faster assessment,” the Minister added.
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, said the refurbishments would include a new kitchen and dining facilities, upgraded bathrooms, new floor coverings and paint, and improved health, safety and accessibility features.
“This project will modernise the clubhouse for members and visitors as well as many local community groups that use the venue for activities such as dinners, fundraising and meetings,” Ms Cooke said.
“Cowra Golf Club was built on its current site in 1963 and provides a safe, family environment for the local community to learn and play golf.
“The new clubhouse including dining facilities will help boost patronage and make the club more viable,” Ms Cooke said.
President of Cowra Golf Club, Mr Robert Oliver, was thrilled to accept the grant on behalf of the club.
"This grant is a massive help to us,” Mr Oliver said.
“In 2017 we had a rough year, there were a few things that went wrong that were out of our control,” he added.
Mr Oliver said the club was an essential part of the town and the refurbishment would benefit not only golfers but the community as a whole.
“We are a recreation venue and social hub not only for golfers but the community here in Cowra,
“It’s a place that everybody in the town comes to enjoy; not just to play golf but have a meal and socialise,
“This is a huge morale boost for both the members and the town,” Mr Oliver smiled.