GRANT: Alex Abbey and John Sarkissian from the Central West Astronomical Society with the cheque for a Northparkes Mines grant.

In July 2020, CMOC’s Australian operating site - Northparkes mine (NPM) has announced the successful recipients of round one of its Community Investment Program. The program has two rounds annually, with $40,000 donated each round. Since its inception, over $760,000 has been invested in the Parkes and Forbes shires.

"To achieve our vision of 'A century of mining together', we invest in the future of our community through meaningful partnerships," Northparkes Managing Director Hubert Lehman said, "The Community Investment Program has been one of the successful programs we have used to support the sustainability of the Parkes and Forbes shires.Despite the COVID-19 health pandemic, we want to ensure we are still able to support our local community through this investment program."

The successful applicants for round one included: Aruma, Bogan Gate Golf Club, Central West Astronomical Society, Forbes Rugby Union Club,Parkes Aero Club.

The Community Investment Program has an independent committee, made up of local community members of Parkes and Forbes to review the applications and allocate the available funding. This involves ensuring the applications meet the economic, social, environmental, cultural, recreational and educational needs of the local communities.

GRANT: Bill Barber and Warwick Tom from the Parkes Aero Club with their grant.

In addition to the Community Investment Program, Northparkes have committed to a number of long-term community partnerships, including Parkes Grants Officer and Aboriginal Project Officer, Parkes Sports Grants, Parkes Life Education, Elvis Festival, Parkes Agricultural Show, etc.