More than $1.29 million will be invested into Cobar Shire through the latest round of the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Fund. Over $1 million will go to upgrades of Ward Oval.

“As part of the Ward Oval Masterplan, this funding will see six lighting towers constructed to illuminate the fields with new energy-efficient lighting which will enhance the night life of the facilities and cut down energy costs," NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway said.

“Sports play a crucial role in the growth and development of our youth, and I am proud to see funding from the Stronger Country Communities Fund also going to the Cobar Little Athletics which will see new discus nets and shotput circles as well as synthetic grass around the long jump pit installed."

President of the Cobar Little Athletics Club, Troy Knight, said they hope to encourage more participants to the club, thanks to the updated equipment.

"Our committee has done fund-raising to renew some things but this is our first big government grant," he said. "We are slowly building up our member numbers."

"Originally our Little Aths season was from October to December and then a break before restarting in February until March.

"Unfortunately, we found we lost a lot of members with this timing, mainly due to the heat. Our season now runs from September until the end of December and we have around 100 kids signed up, which is great. I certainly encourage anyone interested to come along and have a look."

Also earmarked for funding is the Euabalong Hall which will be revitalised to the tune of $100,000.

"Euabalong is a vital part of the community and I am also proud to announce that it will receive funding to revitalise and expand the Euabalong Hall," Mr Farraway said.

“As one of the area’s only event space, this funding will be used to address safety issues and to make the hall a safe, appealing and functional space for local residents, the broader district and tourists."