Leader of The Nationals in the Senate, Ron Boswell, today officially opened a refurbished oval at the St Francis School in Hughenden, which was possible thanks to $19,506 in funding from the Australian Government. Senator Boswell was in Hughenden as part of a visit to north west Queensland communities of Julia Creek, Richmond, Hughenden and Homestead in the company of Cloncurry Mayor and Nationals candidate for Kennedy, Ed Morrison. Senator Boswell said the St Francis School project provided a grassed area for sporting activities and a general play area for students. “This oval is terrific news for students at the St Francis School in Hughenden who no longer have to travel to other sports grounds to participate in sporting and recreation activities,” Senator Boswell said. “The refurbished oval also adds to the school’s health initiatives by encouraging students towards a healthier lifestyle, encouraging greater physical activity by students.” “I am sure students and teachers alike will derive a great deal of pleasure from a new and improved oval at the school.” The Australian Government funds helped St Francis School Parents & Families Association with the top dressing and levelling of the oval as well as the installation of a tank and irrigation system for maintenance. Senator Boswell congratulated the local community for working together to access Regional Partnerships program funding, and the work done by the North Queensland Area Consultative Committee in helping bring the project to fruition. Senator Boswell acknowledged the financial support provided by Perpetual Trustees Australia, Catholic Education. St Francis Parents & Friends Association, the Flinders Shire Council and other community contributions.  While in Hughenden, Senator Boswell will officially open the shearing interactive display at the information centre that received more than $48,000 in federal funds, and inspect the Hann Highway north of Hughenden with the Flinders Shire Mayor. This section of road recently received $3.85m in Australian Government funding. Media enquiries:  Leah Nicoll in Senator Boswell’s office – 0429 450 942