Inspecting the new spectator grandstand at the recently completed White Park equine arena in Scone.

The Scone community is a step closer to drawing more tourists to the Upper Hunter following the completion of two community infrastructure projects.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said detailed design plans have been finalised for the proposed Aviation Visitor Attraction at Scone Airport after the backing of a $171,400 grant from the Federal Government.

“With these plans, Scone can look forward to welcoming more visitors and more wealth into the Upper Hunter New England region,” Mr Joyce said.

“The proposed new airport facilities will include amenities such as a cafe, gift shop, function centre and interactive aircraft display.

“This is real delivery for Scone and real delivery for local tourism in regional and rural areas such our own.”  

Funding for the $342,800 project was awarded under the 2017/18 round of the Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure (TDDI) program, a Commonwealth-funded initiative administered by the State Government to support tourism projects that drive demand and increase local tourism expenditure.

Scone’s White Park equestrian facility was funded under the same program and received a $124,360 grant for new grandstand seating at the arena.

The $248,720 project for increased grandstand capacity will cater for up to 3,000 spectators and help promote Scone’s unique standing in the equine industry.

“Scone is The Horse Capital of Australia, so it’s only fitting that we fund important community-building infrastructure projects like this which will help contribute to the long-term viability of our communities,” Mr Joyce said.

“It’s particularly important to help boost the economies of towns during this time of drought as local projects can call on local suppliers, local labour and help drive the town’s dollar further.”

(ENDS)