$251,698 FOR CLARENCE AND RICHMOND VALLEY CROWN RESERVES

More than $251,000 in NSW Government funding will help protect and improve Crown reserves across the Clarence and Richmond valleys, with nine local projects sharing $251,698 through the 2025-26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.

Clarence Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson welcomed the announcement, saying the funding would support the dedicated volunteers, community organisations and councils who work tirelessly to care for some of the region's most valued public spaces.

Mr Williamson recently visited some of the volunteers from the Dirawong Reserve Trust at Evans Head to congratulate them on securing funding for two important environmental projects.

"Our Crown reserves are among our region's greatest assets, providing places for recreation, protecting our natural environment and bringing communities together," Mr Williamson said.

"This funding recognises the incredible work of the many volunteers and organisations who give their time to care for these special places, often behind the scenes and without recognition.

"It was a pleasure to recently meet with the dedicated volunteers from the Dirawong Reserve Trust and congratulate them on their two successful projects. Their passion for protecting this unique reserve is inspiring, and they are just one example of the many volunteers making a real difference across our region."

"I thank every volunteer, reserve trust, Landcare group, Aboriginal organisation and council staff member who helps care for our Crown reserves. Your efforts ensure these important community spaces can be enjoyed by future generations."

Successful projects in the Clarence and Richmond valleys include:

• Susan and Elizabeth Islands Reserve - Weed management - $25,000

• Alumy Creek Reserve - Weed eradication and control - $1,012

• Diggers Camp Dune Care Group - Diggers Headland Reserve weed control - $8,448

• Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation - Restoring and protecting Yaegl assets and natural resources on Hickey Island, Yamba - $68,855

• Clarence Valley Council – Iluka Beach Foreshore Reserve weed control - $87,890

• Richmond Valley Council - Jabiru Geneebeinga Wetlands bush regeneration project at Richmond Park, Casino - $5,940

• Dirawong Reserve Evans Head - European Red Fox baiting program - $20,130

• Dirawong Reserve Evans Head - Bush regeneration targeting noxious weeds - $26,195

• Border Ranges Richmond Valley Landcare Network - Weed control at Airforce Beach, Evans Head - $8,228