Federal Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack was in Forbes on Thursday to deliver the $10,300 Stronger Communities Program grant to Forbes Swimming Club for the refurbishment of their old clubhouse.

Forbes Swimming Club’s Kay Playforth said the clubhouse is in desperate need of a makeover.

“We haven’t had a decent clubhouse in forever,” she said.

“We can’t lift up the windows … it’s been a nightmare in there.”

The swimming club already has plans in place for a complete refurbishment of the clubhouse which is expected to cost a total of $21,000.

Ms Playforth said this grant is very much appreciated.

“This really does mean so much to us as a club,” she said.

“It’ll make it easier for people to volunteer. It’ll be good for the community and school carnivals.”

Ms Playforth thanked Forbes Shire Council’s grants officer Andrew Rawsthorne for his help in securing the grant for the club, as well as the club’s treasurer Janelle McManus.

Mr McCormack said the Stronger Communities Program is all about funding small capital projects in local communities.

“The federal government is providing money directly to these little organisations that do so much for the community and build so much capacity,” he said.

“It’s the support of organisations that benefit youth and provide meaningful opportunities for young people.

“Previously it was left up to the state government and council to do these sort of things but in government, we’ve been able to deliver some good grants.”

Mr McCormack said Forbes Swimming Club were well-deserving of the money.

“It means the world for these little groups,” he said.

“We saw the facilities that they’ve been enduring. These sorts of things need to be upgraded.

“Without these grants, they wouldn’t be able to do these things.

“It’s money well spent.”

The Stronger Communities Program funding must be matched dollar-for-dollar.