The Gippsland Vehicle Collection in Maffra will receive a $1 million grant to future-proof facilities if the Coalition wins the federal election, which is expected to be held in May this year.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester made the funding guarantee this week after meeting with senior colleagues in Canberra.
“We are determined to help local community groups improve facilities which make a significant social and economic contribution to regional areas like Gippsland,” Mr Chester said.
“If we win the election, the Gippsland Vehicle Collection will receive $1 million to put toward its plan to replace the asbestos roof and undertake further exciting projects.
“The volunteers have done an outstanding job for the past 20 years and have been raising money through various initiatives to contribute to this project.
“The collection now attracts more than 20,000 people per year, but we need to make sure the vehicles are fully protected when they are on display, and the new roof is an important part of future plans.”
Gippsland Vehicle Collection President Vanessa Noble has welcomed the funding commitment and said it was a welcome boost to the fundraising efforts.
“We are working hard to raise as much money as possible to put towards the project, and a major grant would help us enormously,” Vanessa said.
“The current ‘Ford versus Holden’ display has been very popular, and we are encouraging as many people as possible to visit the collection and enjoy the exhibition.”
