That is the sentiment after many other regional centres surrounding Leeton shire were gifted funds for several projects. 

However, nothing was specifically listed in Tuesday’s NSW Budget for Leeton shire. 

Mayor Paul Maytom wasn’t too pleased. 

“On face value it seems disappointing that Leeton has not received a specific mention in the state budget,” he said. “However, I am optimistic there will be opportunity going forward.”

The government has allocated $7 million to upgrade the Newell Highway a Grong Grong, $6.1 million to continue the work at the Wagga Rural Referral Hospital, Coleambally will receive $13 million in 2017-18 for the Nimmie Caira System enhanced environmental water delivery project and Deniliquin will receive $6.2 million for a new police station. 

Money has also been allocated to Griffith and Ardlethan for infrastructure projects, including an upgrade to the latter’s ambulance station. 

Councillor Maytom said while it was disappointing Leeton wasn’t getting specific funding, there was some positives to come from the budget. 

“Leeton will, for example, chase a share of the new $1 billion Regional Growth Economic Activation Fund and the $6 billion Rebuilding NSW Fund to grow investment in enabling infrastructure for initiatives such as the Western Riverina Intermodal Freight Terminal at Wumbulgal,” he said.   

“We are also looking forward to applying for a share of the new Strong Country Communities Fund for our pool upgrade and for other community facilities identified in the town improvement plans that will be developed over the next year with the communities of Yanco and Whitton.”

Further afield in the Riverina-Murray area, towns such as Tumut, Batlow and Albury are all receiving a cash boost for projects. Primary producers in the region could be winners under the budget, with $75 million set aside to prepare for times of drought. 

A further $15 million was also allocated for the AgSkills strategy to help the cotton and grains industries attract new workers and up-skill current employees. For roads, $200 million was announced to fix country roads, which could benefit Leeton motorists.