A boost to tiny towns

FOUR projects in the region are to receive funding in the first round of the State Government’s new Tiny Towns Fund, which aims to boost projects in regional and rural areas.

Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan, and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, jointly announced the funding package last week.

The City of Greater Bendigo will receive $15,000 for its Electrify Marong Feasibility Study and $49,799 will go to a new basketball and netball halfcourt at the Town Park in Axedale.

A sum of $50,000 has been allocated for a kitchen upgrade at the Raywood Recreation Reserve, while a refurbishment of the Neilborough Public Hall at the Bill Cole Recreation Reserve – including a new roof – will benefit from $23,221.

“The Labor government’s Tiny Towns Fund is just one of the ways we’re creating stronger communities, more tourism opportunities and backing more local jobs, with our $25 million Council Support Package also helping to get shovel-ready projects off the ground in our regional cities and surrounding towns,” Ms Allan said.

“Our investments mean more locals have jobs close to home, more communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive, and more visitors can experience everything our regions have to offer.

“The Tiny Towns Fund empowers small communities to thrive, ensuring projects that locals are passionate about can become a reality.”

The $20 million Tiny Towns fund is part of what the government says is a $45 billion investment since 2014 in projects and programs that support regional and remote Victoria.

The first round of grants involves contributions to more than 200 projects across Victoria’s smallest regional and outer metropolitan towns, each with fewer than 5000 residents.

Community groups, non-profit groups and councils are eligible for grants of up to $50,000.

“Our tiny towns are at the heart of Central Victoria – and we’re helping make them even better with this latest round of funds,” Ms Edwards said.

More information is at rdv.vic.gov.au/tinytownsfund.