Glen Innes Severn Council had received $401,000 from the Federal Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program in December 2008. A combined $166,000 was spent on upgrading the electricity at the showgrounds, an upgrade to the Standing Stones amenities and restorations at the Wellingrove Presbyterian Church, the oldest church in the district.

In officially opening the works Federal Member for the New England Tony Windsor said everyone had different views on the global economic crisis and government spending. He said the infrastructure program was like the previous governments Roads to Recovery program.

“In my view it was fair. Local councils received their fair share of funds and local determination prioritised the work,” he said.

Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay said the number of grants coming to Glen Innes was at an all time high.

“What it does show is the spirit of the community is strong and getting stronger. Volunteers have tripled and quadrupled the governments grants,” he said.

“I remember when times weren’t so good but members (of the Showground Trust and the Show Society which is the main user of the facility) have given so much and are finally seeing the fruits of their labour for their belief in the showgrounds being the best in country NSW.”

On behalf of the Showground Trust Bill Walmsley paid individual tribute to the many local contractors, Country Energy and other volunteers who invested labour, time and funds into upgrading the electricity.

Peter Smith on behalf of the Wellingrove Church said the grants were a marvellous way to get funding to important community infrastructure that could not otherwise afford repairs.

Glen Innes Severn Council’s Director of Development and Environmental Services Graham Price on behalf of the Standing Stones said it would have been a rocky 12months for local tradespeople without the stimulus grants.

“Little projects really wouldn’t happen without these funds,” he said.

“The upgrade of the amenities allows some savings for the Celtic Festival which has flow on effects for the community.”

The three were the last of the 10 approved projects to be completed.