A PLAN to revitalise the Rosedale township and boost the local economy will receive $1 million in Australian Government funding. Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the Willow Park Campground would be upgraded to attract more visitors to the town. In addition, the Rosedale central business district will undergo beautification works with streetscape improvements. “Rosedale is on the edge of the Latrobe Valley and has been identified by Wellington Shire Council as a town that will experience flow-on effects of the Hazelwood Power Station closure,” Mr Chester said.“Local businesses rely on the pass-through traffic for their incomes, so it’s important we give travellers even more reason to stop and spend in Rosedale. “The Willow Park Campground is well utilised, but there is no infrastructure to support visitors. These upgrades will enhance Rosedale’s reputation as a “RV-friendly town” and encourage more people to pass through the Latrobe Valley on their way to destinations further east.” The investment will complement a $2 million upgrade of the Princes Highway roundabout in Rosedale, removing a freight bottleneck. The Australian Government is providing $1.045 million, under round five of its Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Programme to reconfigure the existing roundabout, which presents a hazard to motorists and pedestrians. Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash said the Coalition Government was investing in regional communities as part of its strategy to encourage decentralisation. “I’m really pleased that the local community, through Wellington Shire Council, has identified a priority project and the Australian Government has been able to help,” Minister Nash said. “I aim to help build the kinds of communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to and projects like this help to do that.” Wellington Shire Council Mayor Carolyn Crossley said: “The funding announcement by the Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is welcome news and on behalf of Council and the Rosedale community, we thank the Federal Government for its ongoing and continued support of Wellington’s community infrastructure. “The transformation of Willow Park is a high priority for Council and the Rosedale community, and is included in Rosedale’s Community Plan. This work forms part of the overall revitalisation of Rosedale which also includes Council’s streetscape works and the roundabout upgrade by VicRoads, and we are ready to get to work as soon as we can. “This project will reinvigorate Rosedale, and create an environment to attract businesses and visitors, and bring economic benefits. “Rosedale is the western entry to Wellington Shire and it’s important that we present the best possible impression to visitors travelling though our region.” CAPTION: Members of the Rosedale community celebrate the announcement with Member for Gippsland Darren Chester and Wellington Shire Mayor Carolyn Crossley.