Blue Mountains News

Liberal Candidate for Macquarie, Sarah Richards said the upgrades would include an off-grid solar PV system with battery backup, ducted reverse cycle air condition, an external roof sprinkler system, a water harvesting and water storage system, energy efficient lighting and high-quality theatre-style drapes for energy efficiency.

“These vital upgrades will deliver a more resilient community refuge for Australians in need, including during future bushfires and flood events,” Ms Richards said.

“BANC is also a registered charity that provides support to Australians on the NDIS, as well as childcare services.

“These upgrades will also enable them to provide more support to the local community, making the facility safer and fit-for-purpose.”

General Manger for the Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre, Leah Godfrey, said that the funds would transform the centre.

“This is exciting because it will improve and modernise the facilities for both current residents and the next generation,” Godfrey said.

“And the upgrades will transform the Centre into an energy secure, carbon neutral facility, with a bank of solar panels and battery storage.

She said that the switch from un-flued LPG gas heating to air conditioning and new energy efficient lighting would also reduce the centre’s power usage and costs.

Blue Mountains City Councillor, Kevin Schreiber, said that since the bushfires and the pandemic, the Morrison Government’s funding to council and residents had been extraordinary.

“And I’m delighted that the BANC is the latest recipient of a funding grant,” Cr Schreiber said.

“The Morrison Government has recognised the special challenges residents and business owners here have had to face, and whether it’s been money to support festivals for our artists, road upgrades or bushfire resilience projects, it’s been a big help.

“On behalf of the Blue Mountains Council I am deeply grateful for the ongoing support that will see our residents provided with an even safer space to gather in the face of a natural disaster.”  

Only the Liberals can be trusted to keep the economy strong and secure a stronger future for the residents across the Blue Mountains