Inverell Pioneer Village Set For Upgrade

6 November 2024

A massive $107,162.61 has been awarded to 10 organisations under Round 2 2024 of the Sapphire Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund.

Twice a year, Squadron Energy’s Sapphire Wind Farm invites local community organisations to submit applications for a share of funding that can be used on equipment and infrastructure purchases, repairs and renovations, and programs and events.

The Inverell Pioneer Village is one of the successful organisations, being awarded $29,890.66 for the preservation of the George Devine Collection.

Mr Les Moulds, Secretary of the Inverell Pioneer Village Committee expressed his heartfelt thanks to Squadron Energy for the funding.

“The George Devine Collection is an irreplaceable treasure trove of historical photographs, memorabilia and equipment dating back to the 1800s. High quality display cabinets will ensure the Collection is not only visible but also protects it from potential damage, making it more accessible and engaging for visitors.”

The Inverell Pioneer Village is a major tourist attraction for Inverell with over 15,000 people visiting each year. The enhanced presentation of the Collection will enrich their experience, providing a more immersive and informative view of the region’s history. The George Devine Collection is housed in the Rob Roy Hall. Custom made cabinetry standing at 120mm will feature glass front doors and LED lighting.

“This improved presentation will enhance the village’s reputation as a cultural destination, increasing visitor numbers, which will in turn deliver increased revenue for the village and an increase in the visitor economy in the community.”

The following organisations received funding under Round 2 of 2024:

• Inverell Golf Club – All Weather Golf Range Shelter – $10,000.00
• Inverell Poultry Club Inc – Poultry Display Bantam cage fronts replacement – $5,885.00
• Inverell Pioneer Village – Preservation of the George Devine Collection – $29,890.66
• Inverell Rugby Club – Installation of single point metering and new sub mains – $13,715.00
• BCI Gymnastics – Coaches and Judges – Qualifications and Uniform Project – $9,580.00
• Friendly faces Helping Hands Foundation – Redevelopment of Friendly Faces Helping Hands Foundation Website – $8,250.00
• Tingha Recreation Reserve Land Manager – Tingha Evacuation Centre Connectivity and Brush Cutter – $5,684.00
• Best Community Services – Education and School Engagement Program – $4,998.00
• North West Mower Racing Association Incorporated – Replacement of Grand Stands – $16,500.00
• The Inverell Singers Inc – Facilitate and Support Inverell Residents to Engage in Music- related Activities – $2,659.95

Round 1 of the Squadron Energy Sapphire Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund opens on 13 January, 2025. To find out more information visit https://inverell.nsw.gov.au/building-and- development/wind-farms/sapphire-wind-farm-community-fund/ or call Council on (02) 67288 288.

Mr Les Moulds (Left) and Mr Stewart Berryman, Secretary and Chairperson of the Inverell Pioneer Village Committee in the Rob Roy Hall where the George Devine Collection is housed.

For further information contact:
Kristy Paton – Inverell Shire Council | PO Box 138 | Inverell NSW 2360 02 67288221 | kristy.paton@inverell.nsw.gov.au