The NSW Government will provide over $312,000 in grants to maintain and upgrade Crown land reserves and community facilities across the Northern Rivers region.

Crown reserves play a vital role by providing land for recreation, community organisations and the environment.

Northern Rivers electorates' projects being funded include:

• $220,950 towards carpark and footpath improvements, signage, bollards and landscaping at Torakina Reserve at Brunswick Heads. Accessible footpaths will make it easier for people with limited mobility and families with prams. Defined pedestrian, recreational and vehicle areas will make it safer and protect vegetation.
• $16,958 for noxious weed control at Black Head Reserve along the Ballina to Lennox Head coast.
• $23,687 for noxious weed control at Skennars Head Reserve.
• $44,194 for noxious weed control at Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Facility at Lennox Head.
• $6,292 for noxious weed control in the Byron Bay Clay Heath Endangered Ecological Community at Patterson Street Hilltop Reserve, Byron Bay.
• $120,175 to Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) for improvements to the Fingal Head Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Reserve.
• $42,900 to Tweed Shire Council to manage noxious weeds at Tweed Coast Reserve.

Improvements to Torakina Reserve will support better and safer community access and improve the amenity of this popular area.

Noxious weed control will help keep reserves healthy and functional for community use, protect the environment for native animals and plants, and reduce the risk of weeds spreading to surrounding lands.

The grants are being provided by Crown Lands in the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF).

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said, “The grants to maintain and improve reserves in Ballina are part of $11.18 million that is being offered by the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund statewide to support community-focused projects.

“The NSW Government is focused on building better communities and these projects will keep our public reserves safe and healthy and support the cultural, sporting and recreational life of local communities to benefit many thousands of people.” 

Duty MLC for Tweed and Ballina Emily Suvaal said, “These grants will make a real difference for our community by improving access and safety at local reserves like Torakina, ensuring everyone can enjoy our beautiful public spaces.”

“Protecting our environment is just as important as supporting recreation. This funding for weed control helps preserve native plants and wildlife across the Northern Rivers.”

“Investing in Crown reserves means investing in the heart of our communities, where people gather, play, and connect.”

“I’m proud to see funds going to local Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, recognising and respecting the history and ongoing connection of First Nations people to this land.”

“These upgrades will support families, seniors, and people with limited mobility by making our reserves more accessible and welcoming for everyone.”