The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has secured $300,000 to finally complete the central pavilion at the Traralgon West Sporting Complex.
Mr Chester has been working closely with his Federal Government colleagues over the past six months to secure the funding needed to fit-out the first floor of the pavilion.
“I am pleased the Federal Government is able to provide the money to finish off this important project for Traralgon West Cricket Club and West End Football Club,” Mr Chester said.
“The fit-out includes connecting electricity and water, lining the walls, laying floor coverings and installing kitchen and bathroom facilities to create a multi-purpose space.
“When the work is done, the clubs will be able to hold functions and events in an indoor space that will serve the clubs and the wider community for years to come.”
Mr Chester was shown the unfinished state of the pavilion during a visit to the Traralgon West Sporting Complex late last year and promised to investigate Federal Government funding avenues on behalf of the cricket and football clubs.
“These two clubs had no where to go to conduct presentations if the weather turned bad, to run indoor training events, or to hold fundraisers and sponsors days,” Mr Chester said.
“The bottom level of the pavilion has been well-used over the past seven years since the pavilion was opened, but the top level has remained an empty shell,” Mr Chester said.
“It was a shame to see the building was so close to completion – all that was needed to get the job done was money.
“I’m pleased to be able to play a role in getting this project finished and I’m looking forward to seeing the first floor in use.
“It is a much-needed venue for the clubs as well as the broader community. ”
The Federal Government previously provided $438,000 towards the construction of the pavilion. More recently, Latrobe City Council funded the installation of a life and fire stairs.
The funding is being provided under the $20 million Latrobe Valley Local Jobs and Infrastructure Package being delivered through the Federal Government’s Community Development Grants programme (CDG).
