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Council endorses advocacy priorities

December 26, 2019 BY

Securing the future of the bike park is among council's advocacy priorities.

THE Surf Coast Shire has updated their advocacy priorities.

Advocacy often relates to funding given by the state and federal governments but can also come through community and non-government organisations.

Having advocacy projects marked out strengthens the council’s position when approaching these groups for funding.

At the December 10 meeting, Cr Brian McKiterick said the council was striving to ensure they give the shire the best chance of having these projects funded.

“There are a myriad of projects that council is engaging with both state and federal governments that are needed for our community to ensure we get better infrastructure for the Surf Coast Shire.”

Projects include securing the future of the Anglesea Bike Park, which has been in doubt for some time now. The council is also looking for funds to help develop a mountain biking trail network, also in Anglesea.

There are plans for the Barwon River walk and an adventure playground to be constructed in Winchelsea. Concept and feasibility planning has also been done on a walk around Painkalac Creek.

The council also listed two partner-led projects in the Anglesea Eden Project and the Cape Otway Road Australia development (CORA).

Projects regarding “environmental leadership” include opposing oil drilling in the Great Australian Bight and strengthening town boundaries.

The shire is also looking at the use of recycled water in the Thompson Valley.

In planning for future growth, the council is looking for $6 million to revitalise Torquay’s town centre and fund a new library about four times the size of the existing Torquay building.

They are also seeking a second oval in Winchelsea, improved mobile and internet coverage, a pavilion and amenities upgrade for Moriac Netball Club and an extension to the Bellbrae Hall.

Policy campaigns include improvements to healthcare, public transport and emergency services.

The council also named two priorities developed by community and partners: establishing fire protection systems for Barwon Park and upgrading Anglesea Motor Yacht Club.

At the meeting, Cr Margot Smith noted the absence of a pool for Torquay on the priorities list.

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