A $2.1 million expansion of Gippsland Rotary Centenary House is now underway.
Foundation works have started on site at Valley Drive, Traralgon, behind Latrobe Regional Hospital for the stage three expansion.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, who secured $900,000 for the project, said construction of 13 new independent units would be undertaken by local company Kingbuilt.
“Centenary House is a credit to Rotarians across Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley and it’s important our Federal Government backs local community-driven projects,” Mr Chester said.
“I’m pleased the project has been awarded to a local business, creating local jobs and a boost to the local economy.”
Mr Chester said the project would see Gippsland Rotary Centenary House almost double its capacity to meet current and future demands for accommodation.
“When the project is finished, there will be a total of 30 twin occupancy rooms with kitchenettes and ensuites. The expansion will also contain new communal areas including lounge room, laundry and external decked area.”
Mr Chester said Centenary House provided a vital accommodation service to patients from across Gippsland undergoing treatment at Latrobe Regional Hospital and their families.
“It is a home away from home for patients and provides an opportunity for residents to support each other through difficult times,” Mr Chester said
Gippsland Rotary Centenary House Operations Manager Carol Crewe said the stage three development would allow the house to meet the needs of the Gippsland community.
“This expansion would not have been possible without the funding from the Federal Government,” Ms Crewe said.
“We are very grateful to Darren for his ongoing and substantial support of Gippsland Rotary Centenary House.”
The project will create 25 jobs during construction and two ongoing positions at Centenary House.
The Federal Government is providing $900,000 towards the project through its $20 million Regional Jobs and Investment Package as part of the Federal Government’s response to the closure of Hazelwood Power Station.
