A word from the Chairman – October 26, 2017

Last Friday, I attended the third and final scheduled meeting of the Point Grey – Lorne Redevelopment, Project Steering Group representing the Committee for Lorne. I was accompanied by Cr Clive Goldsworthy, Lorne Business and Tourism president Chris Tutungi, Friends of Queens Park president John Wilson and commodore of the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club Chairman Graeme Norton. The community of Lorne has continued to be well represented in planning for the long awaited outcome for development at Point Grey.

Along the journey, there has been a huge amount of publicity, both good and bad, the coming and going of various community representatives and a “changing of the guard” at the head of the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC). Having personally been actively involved since 2012, I have been well positioned to observe these changes, work with those that have come and gone and be committed to the final stages.

Following the early years of very robust discussion, disagreement and concerns about outcomes that at one point resulted in my sitting in a minister’s office in Melbourne to lobby for change, it appears that all these efforts by key Lorne people is beginning to shape this final outcome. While there has been criticisms in the past, publicly aired through various sources, it is important to reinforce that the current working relationship with the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee on the Point Grey – Lorne project has never been stronger.

In the words of GORCC chair Ken Northwood: “There is a great deal excitement around the spectacular Point Grey and what we can do there, which complements other projects on the Great Ocean Road by encouraging people to stop, spend and stay longer. We will now commence detailed design for the project capturing all required creative elements.”

“The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee and the local community, through the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club, have already committed one third of the total funding ($2.3 million),” Mr Northwood said. “We are seeking a further $4.6 million through various state and federal funding channels.”

Subject to funding approval, the Point Grey – Lorne Redevelopment will be ready to begin construction in 2018, and prior to the next state election. Yes, funding is always a difficult task but how often are key community projects, benefitting national and international visitors at such an iconic location, ready to go with one third of the project cost in the bank?

Make a note in your diary for the Lorne Community Hospital AGM scheduled for November 13 at the Cumberland Resort. Light refreshments and finger food will be provided from 5pm with the meeting scheduled for 5.45pm to 7pm. Alzheimer’s Australia Victorian Facilitator, Wendy Henderson, will be talking about the Montessori philosophy to engage and enable people with dementia to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. Please RSVP by November 6 to the hospital reception on 5289 4300.

Ian Stewart
Chairman – Committee for Lorne