More than $10 million from the Australian and NSW Governments Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund (BLERF) has ensured major infrastructure projects could be completed in the Shoalhaven.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said the combined funding has helped Shoalhaven City Council respond to the impact of the Black Summer Bushfires that hit the region five years ago, and will also help prepare the city for future natural disasters.

“These important community projects will improve the safety of local communities in the event of future natural disasters, while also supporting local jobs, and unlocking new social and economic opportunities,” Mrs Phillips said.

“I know many of our towns and villages are still in recovery mode, so it great to have been able to deliver projects that enhance their communities.”

Among the projects was the design and construction of a new 0.5 megalitre concrete reservoir at Bendeela to assist in the supply of water to the Kangaroo Valley region, particularly during peak holiday periods.

Two water storage tanks were constructed at Kangaroo Valley for use by the Rural Fire Service (RFS) and NSW Fire and Rescue during emergencies.

The 30,000 litre and 105,000 litre tanks are located on Kangaroo Valley Road near the Holiday Haven and on Moss Vale Road, adjacent to the Kangaroo Valley Showground.

“This is fantastic for Kangaroo Valley which can be cut off during disasters, including fire and floods,” Mrs Phillips said.

“I know how difficult and frightening it can be for residents, businesses and landowners when they are isolated, so having this extra water resource on hand will be very welcomed and provide some reassurance in the future.”

Council has completed the upgrade of 10 telecommunications sites across the Shoalhaven which included the installation of remote power generation, expanded battery storage, deluge protection systems and remote monitoring of key telecommunication tower sites.

Twenty-six digital information screens have been installed across the Shoalhaven to provide authoritative, accurate and timely information to communities, particularly during emergencies.

Throughout the year, the screens display real-time information including fire danger ratings, weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology, as well as promotional material for council and community events.

“During the Black Summer Bushfires, I saw first-hand just how hard it was for communities when communications went down,” Mrs Phillips said.

“Improving communication infrastructure and providing message boards in communities will help them stay connected to family and friends, and also receive important information when and where they need it.”

In a huge boost for tourism, the Huskisson Mangrove Boardwalk, adjacent to the Lady Denman Museum was rebuilt, providing a wider pathway, improved accessibility features, intermittent seating, and signage containing educational information about the environmental and cultural importance of the mangrove ecosystem.

“This is a wonderful walk meandering over Currumbene Creek and showing off the jewel in Shoalhaven’s crown,” Mrs Phillips said.

“I’m pleased to have provided funds to complete this project. It’s is so good for tourism and great for local families as well.”

Construction of the Artie Smith Oval upgrade in Bomaderry was completed in August, 2023 thanks to an $8 million BLER grant.

The upgrade included the construction of a new AFL/Cricket field, pavilion, clubhouse and amenities, cricket practice facilities, four croquette courts, on-site car parking and new security fencing. The grant also helped pay for the installation of open space embellishments including play and excise equipment, landscaping, pathways and seating.

 “Another awesome community project funded by BLER funding that is enriching the lives of so many people in our community,” Mrs Phillips said.

“Whether it’s improving our boat ramps and bridges, or delivering much-needed community facilities, such as fire stations, I will continue to advocate for locally-led projects in the Shoalhaven.

“I’ll continue to work with council and community groups to advocate for projects that will support local jobs, boost liveability, and stimulate the local economy.”

Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips on the new BLER-funded mangrove boardwalk at Huskisson.

Media contact: Katrina Condie 0437 662 967