Geoff Helisma |

Twenty of 30 projects in the Clarence electorate vying for My Community Project funds are in the Clarence Valley.

The NSW Government is asking citizens to vote for their favourite project, with those that receive the most support receiving the funding, and says that the “up to $260,000 available in each electorate” aims to “help improve the wellbeing of people and communities”.

One project, which is ‘sponsored’ by Clarence Valley Council (CVC), put forward by Clarence River U3A’s croquet club aims to improve playing conditions at the ground on which they play (at CVC-owned Raymond Laurie Sports Centre).

The club’s proposal includes the provision of an all-weather viewing and seating area, with “access to toilets and catering facilities for the large and growing number of senior croquet players who use this area twice a week all year round”.

The croquet club’s group leader, Roz Higgins, said the club formed in 2016 and now has 70 members who play “purely at a social level” on Tuesday and Friday mornings, weather permitting.

She said clubs have been established throughout the valley over recent years, including at Yamba Bowling Club, Iluka, Lawrence and Coutts Crossing.

“Croquet is growing, particularly among people over 50, and women and men play together,” Ms Higgins said.

“We’re hoping for as much support as we can get for our project.”

To find out more about projects nominated for My Community Projectfunding, go to mycommunityproject.service.nsw.gov.au

Voting closes on August 15 and winners will be announced in September – to vote, you must be a resident of NSW, be 16 years or older and have MyServiceNSW account.