FUNDING SUPPORT FOR SMITHS LAKE RECREATION RESERVE UPGRADE - 15 August, 2025
Federal Member for Lyne, Alison Penfold MP, has announced a Stronger Communities Programme grant to Pacific Palms Community Association Inc. for Smiths Lake Recreation Reserve upgrades.
The $5,000 grant will go towards essential earthworks – relocating fill to ensure effective water runoff, protect existing infrastructure, and prepare the site for future construction and landscaping.
“This is a fantastic example of a community-led project that’s not only enhancing the area’s natural beauty but also improving access and infrastructure for locals and visitors alike,” Ms Penfold said.
The Stronger Communities Programme supports small capital projects that deliver lasting social benefits. Round 9 provided $150,000 to each federal electorate to fund eligible, community-driven initiatives.
Ms Penfold commended the Pacific Palms Community Association for its commitment and long-standing advocacy.
“I want to acknowledge the hardworking and determined members of the Pacific Palms Community Association – some of whom have been pushing for infrastructure at this reserve for 36 years. They’ve done the heavy lifting to get this project off the ground for their community, and I take my hat off to them.”
The Smiths Lake Recreation Reserve – Precinct Upgrade is a multi-stage project transforming underutilised open space into a vibrant, connected community hub.
The site currently features a basketball court, skate park, picnic areas, amenities, and a modest bike track for young children. Future works will include a public arts space, BBQs and further picnic facilities, and potentially a separate pump track for older kids and adults.
“When you live in a village like Smiths Lake, it’s important to have well-designed spaces where people can meet, socialise and enjoy the outdoors. This project is about building community and supporting healthy lifestyles,” Ms Penfold said.
The current works make up Stage 2 of the broader upgrade, following the successful completion of Stage 1 in February 2023. This stage includes further groundworks, planting, and the installation of community infrastructure – laying the groundwork for a long-lasting, accessible precinct.
Ms Penfold also acknowledged the project’s origins, “Support for this project to receive Programme funding began under the former Member for Lyne, The Hon. Dr David Gillespie, and I want to recognise his support and advocacy for this Round 9 application.”
Association member and coordinator for Smith’s Lake Village, Robert Bain, also highlighted the practical value of this latest round of funding.
“The most sensible thing to do is to spend the money getting that spoil or fill into the areas it needs to be – to get the surface levels right and the water running off where it should, so the foundations are solid,” Mr Bain said.
Ms Penfold praised the group’s sustained advocacy and tireless work to improve the reserve.
“At the end of the day, being part of a village is about being part of a community – and I’m always encouraged to see such a determined and community-minded group working hard to deliver the infrastructure their community needs.”
Ms Penfold will continue visiting successful grant recipients across the Lyne electorate in the coming weeks, with more announcements to follow.
ENDS
For media inquiries, please contact:
The Office of Alison Penfold MP
Wauchope Office: (02) 6586 4462
Taree Office: (02) 6557 8910