Ashton Coal is investing $88,000 into community groups across the Hunter Valley region through its Community Support Program in 2026.
This funding will be shared across 14 local community organisations that work in the areas of health, social and community, environment and education and training.
Projects funded this year include a stage band project at Australian Christian College – Singleton, a food and toy appeal at Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation, new equipment for Piranhas Cricket Club, the Singleton Art Prize, new gear for Singleton Golf Club (Ladies), an outdoor space upgrade at Singleton Heights Pre-School, new trauma equipment for Singleton Hospital Auxiliary, improved storage for Singleton Neighbourhood Centre, education and training at Singleton PCYC, new technology for Singleton Public School, assistance for a stage production by Singleton Theatrical Society and new display cabinets for Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council.
In addition, as part of Ashton and Mount Thorley Warkworth’s joint partnership with the University of Newcastle, the program will continue supporting the Science and Engineering Challenge and SMART Science Shows for budding scientists across the Upper Hunter region.
Representatives from Ashton Coal and the successful community organisations attended a presentation on February 10 to confirm their donation and celebrate the recipients.
Ashton Coal Operations Manager, Michael Bartlett, was proud to fund more amazing projects in the community this year.
“Congratulations to all the community groups receiving funding as part of our 2026 Community Support Program.
“We are always thrilled to get everyone together to celebrate their success in receiving funding and to discuss how they are going to invest it into their program for the benefit of the people in our community.
“This year we are thrilled to hear that our financial assistance will help purchase new equipment, fund education and training programs, ensure building and technology upgrades can happen, run local events and exhibitions, buy new vital healthcare equipment and enhance our local schools.
“All of these projects and initiatives will make an important contribution to our community, and we are proud to be able to support them.
“As a key employer in the area, we believe in the value of supporting grass roots groups and organisations to grow and expand, thereby strengthening the Upper Hunter Valley region,” said Michael.
Neisha Dean, Director of Singleton Heights Pre-School, said the centre was grateful for the continued support.
“Over the years Ashton Coal has been a strong supporter of our pre-school and we are grateful for their ongoing assistance. We are always looking at ways to improve our play area and plan to use the funding to create an outdoor sensory space that can be enjoyed by all our children.”
Susan Paull, President of the United Hospital Auxiliary in Singleton, also welcomed the funding.
“We want to thank Ashton Coal for their kind and generous donation. This will help us achieve our goal of providing new trauma beds at the emergency department at Singleton Hospital.”
