Funding sought for three major projects

Expansion of the Longwarry early learning centre, a synthetic soccer pitch in Warragul and a multi-purpose pavilion in Trafalgar will head an application by Baw Baw Shire in a share of $25 million.

Council was notified earlier this month that it was one of six peri-urban municipalities to now have access to the Growing Suburbs Fund.

The announcement came after two letters to Premier Dan Andrews, years of lobbying and pleas for financial assistance to deal with the shire’s growing population and demand for infrastructure.

Council last week signed off on its funding application for three projects including the Longwarry early learning centre expansion, a synthetic soccer pitch at Baxter Park, Warragul and a multi-purpose pavilion at the Trafalgar recreation precinct.

The Baxter Park project and Trafalgar pavilion also have been the focus of Sport and Recreation Victoria grant applications.

Officers shortlisted six “shovel ready” projects for submission to the Growing Suburbs Fund.

The three not selected included a multi-purpose pavilion at Bellbird Park, Drouin; Brandy Creek to Buln Buln trail; and Queen St streetscape works.

The $1 million Longwarry early learning centre expansion was selected due to its need in the community and readiness for delivery. Detailed concept designs have been prepared.

The Baxter Park synthetic soccer pitch, expected to cost $2.9 million has been identified as a priority strategic project by council and a key sporting and recreation project for community use.

The Trafalgar Recreation Reserve multi-use pavilion also has been identified as a key sporting and recreation project for community use. The total project value is estimated at $3.2 million. Council will apply for $1.6 million through the GSF and contribute the balance if successful.

Cr Mikaela Power said the State Government recently added six peri-urban councils to the Growing Suburbs Fund, including Baw Baw.

She said council hadn’t had a lot of time to develop grant applications but there was a good selection of projects to submit.

Cr Power said she was particularly pleased the three projects covered all three wards.

“This is much needed infrastructure for our community. Applications close on July 13 so let’s get this done,” she said.

Cr Tricia Jones said the Growing Suburbs Fund was established to fund critical infrastructure in growth municipalities.

She said $250 million had been spent over the past five years.

“We have seen unprecedented growth in Warragul and Drouin and a demand for infrastructure.

“These towns were designed to cater for small populations. We well and truly qualify as a growing community doing our best but lagging behind,” she said.

Cr Darren Wallace said there was an evergrowing strain on council’s existing assets.

He said the Growing Suburbs Fund offered dollar for dollar funding which was good value for money.

“This is our biggest win in our council term. It is an exciting opportunity for Baw Baw to build some much-needed community facilities,” he said.

Cr Peter Kostos said council’s comments to the premier calling for growth funding were very direct and noted – “but it worked.”

“If we can get funding for these projects then that money can come out of the long-term infrastructure plan and money redirected to other projects,” he said.