Work to replace the rundown hall at the Flynn Recreation Reserve is now underway.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester today met with representatives from the Flynn community, Latrobe City Council and the construction company to officially mark the start of the project.
Mr Chester paid tribute to local community members who campaigned for the new hall.
“It’s an exciting day for the people of Flynn who’ve worked hard to get a new, accessible and user-friendly hall for their community,” Mr Chester said.
“It will be a modern building that will bring together people from the surrounding area for local events and functions.
“Along with the improvements that will be undertaken at the reserve, the new hall promises to further unite the community.”
The Federal Government is providing $1.2 million through its Drought Communities Program. More than $800,000 for the rebuild of the hall and $450,000 for auxiliary works to Flynn Recreation Reserve facilities.
Latrobe City Council Chief Executive Officer Steven Piasente said the project had been identified as a priority.
“This project is one that has needed to be done for quite some time, so it’s great to see work is underway,” Mr Piasente said.
“The main elements of the projects are rebuilding the hall, upgrading the tennis courts and refurbishing the public toilet facilities.
“Latrobe City is pleased to work with the Federal Government to support community groups and upgrade infrastructure within our region, and I would like to thank Mr Chester and the Federal Government for their investment in Latrobe City.
“This project is also another example of the strong relationship between Latrobe City and the Federal Government.”
Mr Chester said the benefits of the project extended beyond Flynn.
“Langden Constructions from Traralgon will build the hall, supporting a range of local tradies and suppliers,” Mr Chester said.
“Gippslanders have had a challenging few years and this funding is one way the Federal Government is improving community infrastructure while keeping locals in jobs and helping to stimulate the economy.
“Supporting local jobs is essential during challenging times and projects such as this provide benefits both now and into the future.”
