Children, young people and families across the Clarence Valley are set to benefit from major upgrades to the Mudyala Children & Youth Hub at Townsend after Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation secured $187,669 through the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants Program.
State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson said the funding would help strengthen a community space that plays an important role in supporting local Aboriginal children and youth.
The upgrades will include a new roof to address ongoing leaks, Crimsafe security installation, security cameras, solar panels, a water tank and new play equipment to improve safety, sustainability and accessibility for families using the hub.
Williamson recently met with Mudyala chief executive officer Aneika Kapeen to discuss the impact the improvements would have on the wider community.
“This funding is a significant investment in an organisation making a genuine difference in the lives of local families,” Williamson said.
“Mudyala provides incredibly important support to children, young people and families across the Clarence Valley and this funding will help ensure those services can continue to grow and thrive.
“Since its establishment in 2019, Mudyala has built a strong reputation for delivering culturally grounded programs that strengthen identity, wellbeing, education outcomes and community connection.
“The organisation’s work in supporting Aboriginal children and youth through programs focused on culture, learning, leadership and social and emotional wellbeing is having a lasting impact throughout our region.”
Kapeen said the funding would help Mudyala continue building a safe and welcoming environment for young people and their families.
“We are ecstatic to receive this funding and it will make a huge difference in helping us continue to provide important services and programs to children and youth across the Clarence Valley,” Kapeen said.
“These upgrades will improve the longevity, safety and sustainability of the space and allow us to continue growing what we already provide to the community.”
Williamson said the funding also highlighted the importance of partnerships that reinvest in regional communities.
He acknowledged the role registered clubs play through the ClubGRANTS Category 3 Fund, which directs a contribution from gaming machine profits into community infrastructure projects across NSW.
“This is a fantastic example of how ClubGRANTS funding can deliver real and lasting benefits to regional communities by supporting organisations that are changing lives at the local level,” he said.
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