September 8, 2016
Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fund upgrades at the Mallacoota Recreation Reserve during her visit to Gippsland.
Local Federal Member Darren Chester announced $250,000 during the election campaign to help build new clubrooms, toilets and other amenities.
That commitment was reaffirmed by Minister Nash at a meeting with Mallacoota community representatives this week.
Mr Chester said East Gippsland Shire Council was backing the project and would work with the local community to source matching funds from the State Government.
“It’s taken five years for the local community to get to this stage and they are keen to see works commence as soon as possible,” Mr Chester said.
“The redevelopment will cost around a million dollars and we are all hopeful the State Government will provide some funding to top up the commitments we have from the shire and Federal Government.
‘It’s a credit to the hardworking community volunteers, who must be commended for many hours spent getting the project to this stage and demonstrating whole community support.
“This is a project which benefits sporting and community clubs, local business and the tourism industry, and will also provide a community assembly point in times of natural disaster.
‘It’s an important development for the town and East Gippsland Shire Council is working hard to make sure they get the plans right and deliver the best possible outcomes.”
Paul Preston from the Mallacoota Recreation Reserve and Hall Committee said Minister Nash was well aware of the project’s benefits and she was supportive of the community’s plans for the site.
“We need funding from the State Government to be able to complete this project so we will keep working with the shire; and we will investigate whether there is an opportunity to separate the development into stages so that works can begin as soon as possible,” Mr Preston said.
“This project is much more than just a sporting complex.
“It will support the work of a range of community clubs, the kindergarten and summer youth programs.
“In addition, having better facilities will encourage people who come into our town for sports to stay and socialise and support our local businesses.”
Caption: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester arranged for community members to meet with Fiona Nash this week to discuss Federal Government’s funding commitment for the Mallacoota Recreation Reserve. Pictured (back row) are Vern Darby, East Gippsland Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Gary Gaffney, Darren Chester, Paul Preston, (front row) Jenny Lloyd, Mark Rogers and Minister Nash reviewing site plans for the Mallacoota Recreation Reserve.
