The refurbishment of the Canowindra Cabonne Home Support (CHS) and Central West Libraries (CWL) branch has been completed, delivering a modern, accessible and welcoming space that strengthens community connections while supporting Council operations.
The multimillion-dollar project has transformed the building at 70 Gaskill Street, Canowindra, addressing longstanding structural issues and significantly improving the functionality, accessibility and comfort of the facility for staff, volunteers, clients and library users. The upgrade also included a dedicated Meals on Wheels freezer to support day-to-day operations and the ongoing delivery of community services.
Mayor of Cabonne, Cr Kevin Beatty, said the project represents a significant investment in the future of community infrastructure in Canowindra and the wider Cabonne region.
"This refurbishment ensures the Canowindra CHS and CWL branch can continue meeting the needs of residents while supporting Council operations for many years to come," Cr Beatty said.
"The project delivers benefits not only for local library users and Cabonne Home Support clients, but also for the staff and volunteers who work from the facility to support communities across Cabonne."
The upgraded library now features a larger, brighter and more functional layout, complete with new furniture and improved natural light, creating an inviting environment for reading, learning and community connection.
Senator Deborah O'Neill said, "The Federal Government is committed to investing in essential facilities at the heart of regional communities. These important upgrades will ensure Canowindra residents can continue to connect and access quality services they need close to home."
A State Library of NSW representative said the State Library of NSW was pleased to support the significant library upgrade through its grants program.
"The community will benefit from the improved spaces and enhanced collection displays. Congratulations on the project," the representative said.
Beyond its community-facing function, the building also provides fit-for-purpose workstations that enable employees from other Council locations to work from Canowindra when required, supporting greater collaboration and strengthening Council's presence in the local community.
The redevelopment has been years in the making, with planning commencing in 2023, followed by design development and Development Application approval in 2024. Construction began in May 2025 and has now been completed.
Both CHS and CWL have been operating from the refurbished facility for several months and will continue providing valued programs, resources and support to the Canowindra community.
The project was made possible through funding from the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, the NSW State Library Public Library Infrastructure Grant and Cabonne Council.
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Senator Deborah O'Neill, Senator for NSW reading to the Canowindra Preschool children for Book Week
