Boundary Road Reserve Landcare Group applied for the funding under the 2017-18 Public Reserves Management Fund (PRMF) program and was successful in obtaining $36,645.

The group, comprised of volunteers, will use the money to purchase a new tractor and grading equipment.

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole paid a visit to the reserve on August 21 to make the formal announcement of the funding. 

He said the funding would help with the ongoing maintenance of the community asset.

“The Boundary Road Reserve Landcare Group, they’re receiving just over $36,000 and that is going to be purchasing a new tractor and that is going to be helping them control some of the growth around the tracks,” he said.

“This is about supporting these volunteers because at the end of the day, these people are just passionate about looking after the environment, looking after the Boundary Road Reserve and if we can give them some support and some funding to undertake additional projects, then this is a good outcome for those volunteers here in the area.”

Boundary Road Reserve Landcare Group treasurer Steve Woodhall said this funding was the largest amount of money the group had ever received. 

“We’ve had small grants to help with weed control in the past, but nothing this big,” he said.  “This is the biggest grant we’ve ever gone for and we’ve been lucky enough to get it.”

Boundary Road Reserve has two walking tracks, each around two kilometres in length, that are used by more than 8000 people per year.

The new equipment will help in a variety of ways, ensurinf the track is kept clear of debris and generally maintained for all users. 

The PRMF saw $15 million allocated for projects across the state for 2017-18.

Mr Toole and Mr Woodhall both encouraged groups to apply for future funding. 

“It’s annual funding for Crown Lands management, so any of the trusts around the place, it’s open for them to apply,” Mr Woodhall said.

“We do a lot of volunteer hours out here, but getting something like this is a big help.”