Council nominates projects for infrastructure program

A BMX track and redevelopment of a playground are among the region’s infrastructure projects to share in more than $1 million funding.

The Surf Coast Shire council nominated infrastructure projects to receive funding from the federal government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program, which the government launched on May 22 to help support jobs and local economies through the coronavirus pandemic.

The program’s $500 million funding was divided between councils across the country, with the Surf Coast Shire receiving $1,051,060.

Councils nominated projects to invest a portion of the funds on, with nominations then assessed by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.

The Surf Coast Shire council nominated eight projects to share in initial funding, and nominated another five for if more funds become available.

Councillors approved nominations at the council meeting on July 28.

At the meeting, Cr Brian McKiterick said the program would enable the shire to complete projects they had not been able to fit in their budget.

“There’s a lot of community projects and road projects that slip through the cracks because there’s a significant amount of funds needed, and the shire alone cannot sustain those costs.”

Winchelsea Ward is among the main benefactors. The council allocated $350,000 of their LRCI funds in addition to $100,000 from the shire towards roadworks at the Winchelsea Industrial Estate, including the construction and sealing of Mousley Street from Princes Highway to Alsop Drive.

Winchelsea Ward councillor Heather Wellington said at the meeting this project would greatly benefit the community.

“That’s going to make a huge difference to Winchelsea, to the trading and commercial people there in relation to the conduct of their business, and that’s going to be important to the post-COVID recovery.”

If the nominations are approved, Winchelsea Ward will also see $50,000 from the program to help fund the replacement of an old picnic shelter, and a further $50,000 to stage 2 of works on Wurdale Reserve.

After many years of lobbying, the Torquay Scouts building at McCartney Reserve will receive an extension. LRCI funds will cover $347,000 of the costs, with 1st Torquay Scouts to provide the other $20,000.

The other projects include a BMX track at Ocean Acres Reserve, a seating area and pathway connecting the north and south courts at Surf Coast Tennis Club, fitness equipment for Deans Marsh Reserve, and the redevelopment of Coogoorah Park Playground.

All LRCI projects are required to be completed by June 30, 2021.