Wait is over for Woodbine
A$1.2-million Federal Government grant means Warracknabeal disability-care agency Woodbine is finally on track to have state-of-the-art accommodation facilities.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster announced the money as part of a Building Better Regions Fund round that also included a financial commitment to Buloke Shire roads and Birchip streetscape projects.
The Woodbine announcement means the organisation, which provides services for people with disabilities well beyond Warracknabeal, can push ahead with its $2.1-million project, earmarked as a replacement for ageing Harrop Lodge.
Woodbine chief executive Bernie O’connor said the news was ‘like a dream come true’.
“When I first came here and saw what was called the ‘hostel’ I couldn’t believe it. It was 66 years old, been through mouse plagues and white ants had come and gone,” he said.
“The truth is, it’s done a great job and we want to keep it for historical value, but it is totally obsolete.”
Harrop Lodge, the oldest building at Woodbine, was built in 1954.
The new centre, which will also include a $1.1-million commitment from Woodbine, will be behind Harrop Lodge in Craig Avenue.
Mr O’connor said the new centre would dramatically increase accommodation facilities, helping meet the pressing needs of clients, staff and visitors.
He said Dr Webster had been an enthusiastic project supporter and Yarriambiack Shire Council chief executive Jessie Holmes ‘absolutely fantastic’.
“Without Jessie here we would have been really struggling. She prioritised the project in the shire and has provided a breath of fresh air,” he said.
He added that Victorian Member for Lowan Emma Kealy had also provided strong support.
Dr Webster said she was delighted to announce $4.2-million overall for six projects across her electorate.
“I was overjoyed to learn that Woodbine in Warracknabeal has been successful in their application for $1.2-million to renovate their facilities and construct a new platinum-level disability accommodation centre for their residents,” she said.
“Woodbine is one of the largest employers in Yarriambiack Shire, with more than 180 staff, and this project will create new jobs and provide ongoing, superior care of Woodbine’s clients. Another six jobs will be created for the duration of the construction and refurbishment of the facilities.
“Communities in Mallee are continuing to show amazing spirit and strength as they support each other through these tough times and I am glad to see this latest round will provide much-needed support at such a crucial time.”
Other projects
Other projects included in the funding round are Ouyen Livestock Exchange, Swan Hill Rural City Council sporting facilities in Swan Hill and Lake Boga, and Charlton 2020 multi-purpose centre.
Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development minister Michael Mccormack
said the funding injection to support 163 new infrastructure and community projects across regional Australia came at a critical time.
“Regional Australia has withstood one of the most devastating bushfire seasons, floods and now a global pandemic – to say they’ve been hit hard in recent times, is an understatement,” he said.
“Their resilience will lead Australia’s recovery through grass-roots projects – creating jobs, boosting local economies and growing confidence in regional communities as a great place to live, work and invest.”
Woodbine leaders had been expecting a response to a November, 2019 application for funding in February, just before the arrival of COVID-19.
“It was a long wait but well worth it,” Mr O’connor said.