On Wednesday, the Coalition Government revealed the first projects to be approved for funding in the Lyne electorate under the new $342 million Community Development Grants Program.

Lyne MP David Gillespie announced that subject to full compliance with the program guidelines, the Coalition would provide $1.05 million for the Surf Life Saving NSW operations and training centre in Port Macquarie, up to $10 million for the northern gateway project in Taree, and $3.84 million towards the upgrade of Thunderbolts Way linking the Gloucester valley with the New England.

"I have held discussions and written formally to both the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister in support of these projects and I am delighted they have been able to find savings elsewhere in the budget to be able to deliver fund towards regional projects like this that provide a significant benefit to the region's economy," Dr Gillespie said.

The surf life saving hub will provide training and education for surf life saving members, first aid and community surf education and administrative support.