NRMA Hits the Road: Helping Hands in Outback NSW
A Colourful Start in Wagga Wagga
The adventure kicked off in Wagga Wagga, where we proudly launched a brand-new EV charger — not just any charger, but one wrapped in artwork created by local kids form the PCYC.
It was a vibrant, creative display of community connection and a great start to our week.
Though our work was based in Lockhart, the team stayed in Wagga for the week, making the daily commute through rolling countryside and golden paddocks.
Boots on the Ground
We met with the inspiring team from Frontier Services and a Brayden - a professional painter from Percy's Painting and Decorating - who’d be our guide for the week. The tasks ahead were big:
- Revitalising the local community church with heavy-duty gardening, brick wall repairs, and repainting hand rails, entry doors, and some weather damaged windows.
- Helping the Lockhart Museum prepare for an upcoming exhibition — including the rather unusual task of spray-painting mannequins.
- Giving the showgrounds a fresh coat of paint, including the announcer’s box, grandstand, and racetrack finishing post.
With our marching orders in hand, we split into three groups and got stuck in.
Rising High and Digging Deep
Paint flew, weeds were tamed, and walls were mended. The showground team worked tirelessly prepping and painting the announcer’s box and grandstand. Even the racetrack finishing post got a new lease on life. These little corners of Lockhart were starting to gleam.
To tackle the tallest parts of the racetrack grandstand, we brought in a scissor lift — ensuring safety and precision under the guidance of our expert painter. It was all hands on deck as we transformed tired old buildings into fresh, welcoming spaces.
Throughout the week, we were fueled by delicious lunches thanks to The Lockhart Cafe and Restaurant and hearty breakfasts and dinners at our Wagga motel. Unbeatable country hospitality.
Wrapping Up and Winding Down
By Thursday, some team members had completed their tasks and took the chance to explore the charming streets and riverbanks of Wagga.
Meanwhile, a dedicated crew stayed behind in Lockhart to put the final touches on the church — ensuring every last detail was just right.
Once all the jobs were complete, we hit the road home. Tired? Absolutely. But filled with pride, stories, and a deeper connection to the communities we serve.
This trip wasn’t just about paint or repairs. It was about people — rolling up sleeves, lending a hand, and reminding ourselves of the power of showing up.
