As I look back on this current council term and the many fantastic community projects and facilities that have been delivered, it really is quite remarkable.
Among the extensive list are the new Chiltern Community Hub, Kiewa Multipurpose Pavilion, Wahgunyah hardcourts, new tennis courts at Beechworth, Wooragee and Chiltern, lighting upgrades at numerous recreation reserves, pump tracks at Wahgunyah and Tangambalanga and the Beechworth to Yackandandah rail trail and the EPIC trail.
One project that I want to highlight, that’s only just been completed, is the Kergunyah Memorial Hall upgrade. This historic hall plays such an important role in bringing the community together and as you can see by the images below, it’s looking like new.
As with most community facility upgrades, our success in securing grant funding is what makes these projects possible. In this instance, Council received just under $300,000 from Federal and State government grants and we contributed $160,000, while the Kergunyah Hall Committee tipped in $50,000.
I want to congratulate the committee for its tenacity in not only raising the necessary funds, but in ensuring that the upgrade, which includes a new modern kitchen, capable of catering for large community events became a reality. This is a terrific example of Council and community working in partnership to achieve an outcome that will have long-lasting benefits.
As I’ve mentioned many times before, Indigo Shire has an excellent track record for securing grant funding and you only have to look through our projects and works pages on our website, both current and completed works, to see the extent of projects made possible by grants.
I also want to provide an update on our advocacy efforts for having postal services reinstated at Barnawartha. We’ve received confirmation that our local Federal Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines has passed on our letter to Communications Minister, Michelle Rowland, requesting assistance for the re-establishment of a full postal service in the town as soon as possible.
We are extremely grateful to Dr Haines for her assistance and I will update you on any progress as soon as it comes to hand.
Have a safe weekend.
Cr Sophie Price.