Parkes Sports Groups, Rising Stars Win Funding Boost

Parkes Shire

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Parkes Shire Council and Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations are proud to announce the successful recipients of the latest round of the Evolution Mining Sporting Grants and Rising Star Awards, supporting grassroots sport, participation and facility development across the Parkes Shire.

The partnership between Council and Northparkes Operations reflects a shared commitment to recognising the important role sport plays in sustaining a healthy, active and connected community.

Under a new three-year agreement, Northparkes Operations and Parkes Shire Council will provide a combined total of $210,000 to support sporting projects and individual athletes throughout the Shire.

Administered by the Parkes Sports Council, the grants aim to increase participation opportunities in sport and recreation while improving sporting infrastructure across the region.

Parkes Shire Councillor Cr Louise O'Leary said the program continues to deliver meaningful outcomes for local sporting organisations and athletes.

"Parkes Shire has a proud sporting culture and these grants help ensure our clubs, organisations and young athletes have the support they need to grow, develop and thrive," Cr O'Leary said.

"We are fortunate to have a strong partnership with Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations, whose ongoing investment in community sport is helping create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities."

Northparkes Operations Manager Mining, Technical Services and Discovery, Cameron Moore said supporting community sport remains an important part of the company's commitment to the region.

"Having moved to the area just over 12 months ago, I am blown away at the wide offering of sports available in the Parkes Shire, many of which my children are now involved in," Cameron said.

"It's a real testament to this community, and Northparkes are proud to support this initiative, which improves the liveability of the region."

This round of funding has supported a diverse range of projects, including facility upgrades, equipment purchases and inclusive participation initiatives.

Successful recipients of the latest Sports Grants:

Organisation

Project

Amount Received

Parkes Golf Club

Purchasea new greens roller tomaintainthe course at competition standard.

$6940

Parkes School of Dance

Install a high-quality sprung dance floor to provide a safer and more suitable training surface.

$6940

Parkes Dragon Boat Club

Purchaseadditionalpaddles to support growth and community "come and try" days.

$4100

Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association

Install new soccer goal posts at Harrison Park that meet FIFA and Australian Standards.

$3820

Parkes Bowling and Sports Club

Establishand run a Junior and School Lawn Bowls Program.

$3000

Currajong Disability Services

Deliver aSuperTagGala Day promoting inclusive participation in mainstream sport.

$3000

Holy Family School Parents and Friends Association

Purchasehigh jump equipment that meets current safety standards.

$2200

The latest Rising Star Award recipients were also recognised for their sporting achievements and commitment to their chosen disciplines:

Recipient

Sport

Amount Received

Marcus Skinner

Swimming

$1000

Daisy Rice

Hockey

$1000

Henry Kross

Squash

$1000

Mason Wild

Dirt Track Racing

$500

Reed Wild

Dirt Track Racing

$500

Emrys Cassidy

Athletics

$500

Arlo Cassidy

Athletics

$500

The Rising Star Grant Program provides financial assistance to individual sportspeople from the Parkes Shire, particularly juniors, who demonstrate potential and require support to further develop their sporting careers.

At the end of the year, all Rising Star recipients will automatically be entered into the Parkes Shire Australia Day Sports Awards, where one recipient will be awarded the perpetual Ron Harrison OAM Rising Star Award.

Funding presentations for the successful applicants took place at the Council Chambers on Thursday 30 April 2026.

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