DELUNGRA, Emmaville, Gum Flat, Inverell, Tingha public schools and Macintyre High School are among a host of schools across the New England to benefit from $746,146 in funding through the Australian Government's Investing in our Schools Program, NSW Senator Sandy Macdonald announced yesterday.

"These grants will be of tremendous benefit to schools right across the electorate, many of which have been waiting for additional funding to undertake vital maintenance and upgrade projects," Senator Macdonald said.

"Local schools will use this funding for a wide range of projects, including purchasing gym equipment, refurbishing playgrounds and for improvements to classrooms," he said.

"These projects have been identified as priorities in the schools and will ensure that school-life is a little easier for students, staff and parents."

The Investing in our Schools program will provide an additional $700 million in capital funding to state schools over the next four years, as promised in the 2004 Federal election campaign.

The Australian Government has received more than 4500 applications for the first round of funding and is expected to spend more than $45.5 million in NSW schools.

"I am pleased schools across New England have taken the initiative to apply for this funding and I encourage more schools to apply in the next round," he said.

"The provision of adequate services is of utmost importance for the Australian Government and our local communities."

Under the funding boost:

* Delungra Public School will receive $8,450 for shade structures;

* Delungra Public School will also receive $4620 for outdoor area refurbishment;

* Delungra Public School will also get an additional $3300 for electrical upgrade;

* Emmaville Central School $10,680 for classroom improvements, screens;

* Gum Flat Public School $49,809 for outdoor area refurbishment;

* Inverell Public School $25,262 for classroom improvements;

* Inverell Public School $8,182 for playing fields

* Macintyre High School $28,930 for ICT upgrade; and,

* Tingha Public School $50,000 for covered walkways.

© 2005 Inverell Times

<< Back