A mechanical cow is on the top of the list for Delungra Sports Association, after securing funding under the latest round of the Stronger Communities Program.

“Delungra Sports Association will receive $7,368 to buy a Wazz-a-cow – a portable mechanical cow used in cutting horse instruction - as well as improvements to the sports ground’s water storage capabilities,” Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said.

“The dry conditions forced the association to scale back its usual busy campdraft schedule but there is hope on the horizon with a stockman challenge planned for New Year’s Eve in Delungra. So I’m sure this new equipment and water infrastructure will prove invaluable for local competitors and the association moving forward.”

He congratulated the association for the grant, along with Tamworth and Merriwa, which have received funds for a bike park and men’s shed upgrade respectively.

“This is real delivery for the New England, investing in local projects for local people to strengthen and secure our rural and regional communities for generations to come,” Mr Joyce said.

The grants are among the first to be awarded under the $22.5 million Round Four of the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Program.