With NSW Deputy Premier and Nationals leader John Barilaro also on hand for the announcement on Thursday, Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen said he was thrilled to make such a large contribution to the organisation.

“It’s wonderful news, congratulations to you [MRGC] and all the work that you do as golfers and a golfing club community,” he said.

“I hope it’s only going to go now from strength-to-strength.”

The money, which has come from the NSW Government’s Regional Communities Development Fund, will contribute to a new irrigation system at the course, fencing and, quite excitingly, new squash courts will be built, which will bring another sport back to Muswellbrook.

The club’s also received a $300,000 grant from Muswellbrook Shire Council, which means its total pool of funds for the projects sits at just more than $1.6 million.

Mr Barilaro said it was one of the largest contributions the government had made in a regional area, and praised the owner’s commitment and forward thinking to make it happen.

“To the club congratulations,” he added.

“To get the money, you’ve got to have a vision, you’ve got to have a plan, and you’ve got to be ahead of the curve.

“We’re looking for projects that are ready to go and you guys were exactly at that space, so well done to the club.”

Muswellbrook RSL Golf Club CEO Daryl Egan said it was an amazing feeling to receive so much funding, especially after it was initially shut down.

He thanked the council and Mr Johnsen for helping them resubmit the application in a more streamlined fashion, which eventually led to the grant being approved.

It’s been a whirlwind 12 months for the golf club, which has seen a change in ownership to the Muswellbrook RSL, an internal and external facelift and a number of charity events taking place.

But, Mr Egan said he’s confident the takeover will be worth it and the $1 million received on Thursday will go a long way to securing their future.