Stage one of Winchelsea beautification opens

THE Winchelsea community has a new point of pride with the completion of stage one beautification work in and around its riverside memorial park.

New paving, kerbing, street furniture, mass planting of Gallipoli roses and rosemary and restoration of an historic water trough are all part of the jointly-funded $454,180 project.

Garden surrounding an existing World War I memorial cairn has been rebuilt, in preparation for future addition of two more cairns acknowledging the district’s distinguished service history.

Shire mayor David Bell formally opened the beautification on Tuesday.

Cr Bell paid tribute to the energy and vision of project partner organisations Growing Winchelsea, Winchelsea Returned and Services League subbranch, and a project reference committee.

He also lauded the passion and dedication shown by Winchelsea ward councillors Heather Wellington and Carol McGregor.

“Heather and Carol have both been strongly involved since its inception, attending project meetings and championing the seeking of extra funds.”

He said the beautification project was about enriching community pride and providing an inviting area for locals and visitors to linger and enjoy.

Future work is to include completion of the park with two new cairns, a river loop walk and main street enhancement.

Funding for the project comprises $155,000 from the federal government’s National Stronger Regions Fund, $299,810 from the shire and $50,000 from VicRoads.

The existing project budget includes $128,000 allocation for two town entrance sculptures, which are yet to be completed.

Cr Bell said more than eight million people visit the Great Ocean Road each year and more than three million of them are choosing to travel via inland routes and visiting places like Winchelsea.

Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson also spoke at the launch.