BARNABY Joyce will continue to lobby the state government to produce the cash for major projects in the region, pending their share of funding.
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As major upgrades and projects across the New England electorate wait in limbo for state funding go-ahead, Mr Joyce said he had been making representations to MP’s on when work might get underway.
During July’s election campaign, the Deputy Prime Minister promised $8.5 million for further developments at the Tamworth regional sporting precinct, along with $10 million in federal funding for an augmentation of Quipolly dam and to virtually drought proof the three surrounding towns of Werris Creek, Quirindi and Willow Tree.
Both projects require a share of state government funding to bring them to completion.
Mr Joyce said conversations with state MPs were ongoing.
“I’m putting the discussions through all the time,” he said.
“We want to get these things built, I go into bat for this area to get money on the table because I want to see these things get done.
“I’ve spoken to not only Kevin (Anderson), but also to Michael Johnsen (Upper Hunter) and I know what sort of arguments they’re going to have because I have had the same arguments.
“I’ll be working closely with them and continuing my conversations with them and others to try and get these projects moved forward, it is very important for this city.”
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson said representations for funding were continuing from his end.
“Obviously we are working closely with Michael Johnsen on Quipolly Dam, I will fight for Werris Creek and will continue to push for it,” he said.
“As for the Sporting Centre of Excellence, we are writing to Stuart Ayre, the Sports Minister, to see if he would like to come and have a look.
“We are also waiting on a further update from Council. We are continuing to fight hard for those funds, but they don’t come easy.”