The event raised more than $25,000 for locals groups including bumping up the funding for Muswellbrook Relay for Life.

There was a range of activities on offer for those who attended.

The barbecue also aimed to show support for the new Drayton South project.

“Having the community support us as we present the new Environmental Impact Statement and project benefits to the NSW Government is absolutely crucial to demonstrate how important this project is to the local industry, families and community,” Drayton South Project director Rick Fairhurst said.

Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon attended to show his support to the project and to talk with project directors and Drayton employees.

Activities available included the dunking stand where people dunked their friends to support local community groups and charities.

Singleton Family Support manager Natalie Cowper said the donation to the service would help support Singleton families in need.

“We really appreciate this very generous donation from Anglo American and the funds raised will be used to provide direct services to support families in our community,” she said.

The barbecue was considered a success for organisers.

The next community barbecue will be at Simpson Park, Muswellbrook, on Saturday, April 18, in partnership with Upper Hunter Community Services.