Money is continuing to flow into the Clarence from the NSW Government’s Regional Growth Fund, with the latest beneficiary the much-loved Lawrence Museum.
Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis last Thursday announced a funding injection of $186,150 to upgrade accessibility and building infrastructure at the historic museum precinct situated in the former ABC Transmission Station.
The funding comes from the Regional Cultural Fund, which is one of five ‘economic activation’ funds under the $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, which the Nationals secured in Government, specifically reserved for infrastructure projects that improve the amenity of people living in the country.
Mr Gulaptis said the project will see the construction of an accessible pathway and toilets, repairs to the damaged concrete driveway, a new coat of paint to the exterior of the heritage building, the installation of a lift to accommodate wheelchairs/walking frames to the second storey of the new shed and sealing of the asbestos roof.
“I am absolutely ecstatic for the hardworking volunteers of the Lawrence Historical Society who have put their heart and soul into making the Museum a top-notch historical precinct that attracts busloads of visitors.
“The museum has grown in leaps in bounds over the past few years so much so volunteers started a concerted fundraising campaign to build a new shed, much of which has been built using recycled materials and constructed by some of the skilful volunteers.
“A lot of blood, sweat and tears have literally gone into making the Museum what it is today by a group of dedicated and passionate locals, so this funding is the icing on the cake for them.
“I am passionate about building better social infrastructure and am proud to be a part of the Nationals in Government who are investing record funds into regional communities to improve the lives of local residents,” Mr Gulaptis said.
Vice President Roz Jones of the Lawrence Historical Society said volunteers are over the moon with the news.
“They have worked so hard fundraising and helping build the new shed, so it’s fantastic to know we can complete the Museum precinct and make it accessible for all to visit,” she said.
“We are especially pleased to be able to install a lift in the new shed and provide accessible walkways for wheelchairs and walkers.
“Our collection is growing fast with the Museum attracting visitors from interstate, so the upgrade will increase visitation and contribute to the tourism attractions in the Clarence Valley.
“I would like to thank everyone who supported our application including Clarence Valley Council, Grafton Regional Gallery, the local School, community organisations and individuals and of course our local State MP, Chris Gulaptis,” she said.