The NSW Government has committed $385,000 to upgrade St Ives Showground and control pest and weed infestations within the Davidson electorate.
Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea said the funds had been allocated in the latest round of the NSW Government’s Public Reserves Management Fund Program.
“Public reserves are wonderful assets that are highly valued by local communities and can be vital to the success of local sports, social clubs, business and tourism,” Mr O’Dea said.
Warringah Council will receive $15,000 to help control weeds, including Canopy vines and scramblers along Oxford and Middle Creeks.
Ku-ring-gai Council has also been allocated $20,000 to assist with the control of weeds, particularly Asparagus Fern, Blackberry and Boneseed following a planned fuel hazard reduction burn.
Mr O’Dea said, “The NSW Government’s commitment to provide funding for pest and weed management on Crown Reserves across the Davidson electorate will result in better outcomes for the community and help to protect high conservation value areas throughout the electorate.
“This funding will allow new work to be undertaken to minimise the risk of spreading high-risk noxious weeds to new areas around the region. This is a win for our local communities and a win for the environment.”
Additionally, Ku-ring-gai Council will receive a grant of $67,500 and a loan of $282,500 for important works at St Ives Showground. These include an upgrade to the electricity supply, the replacement and resurfacing of internal roads, repair and refurbishment of heritage buildings and the construction of disabled access toilets.
“Showgrounds are a social and economic focal point for many communities. This funding will provide improvements that will increase their potential to host more events and generate more income into local economies”.
Minister for Natural Resources, Lands and Water, Kevin Humphries said the NSW Government had allocated over $5 million in the latest round of funding.
He said, “It is just one example of the Government’s commitment to the cultural, sporting, environmental, economic and recreational life of local communities.”
