Inverleigh wants MP to jump on youth plan

THE Inverleigh community has grand designs about its youth precinct, and is seeking a large influx of Federal funding to help make it happen.

To be located in Yerram Yaluk Bun next to the existing plays pace, the Inverleigh Youth Precinct would stretch across most of the park and include an asphalt bike pump track, an upgraded and larger skatepark, and a full-court basketball court.

The proposal, by the Inverleigh Progress Association, also includes more car parking, connecting concrete paths with full disability access, a solid shelter with picnic tables, more seating options, and suitable landscaping that links to the existing Inverleigh playground.

The association gave their proposal directly to Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker at last week’s meeting at Yerram Yaluk Bun, which drew a crowd of about 40 young people, parents and supporters.

Deborah Morrison from the association said the Inverleigh plays pace was built thanks to a State Government Pick My Project grant, but this also highlighted the lack of facilities for the town’s older children.

A survey in February about what facilities were needed specifically for the town’s youth aged between 12 and 20 drew just under 200 responses, with a BMX track, bike pump track and improved skate park among the top four responses.

“It’s been a community-led project from the get-go – we thank Golden Plains Shire council for their support, but they have been well and truly in the background,” Ms Morrison said.

Ms Coker said she had already received several emails in support of the youth precinct proposal.

“The fact you’ve come out, after school, on a freezing cold afternoon just to be here, just shows how important this project is to you.”