Cann River and Club Terrace community members will this week mark the completion of two important projects in their districts.
East Gippsland Shire Council is looking forward to joining residents this Sunday, June 30 to celebrate two fantastic new assets: the Cann River Skate Park and the Club Terrace Community Facility.
The skate park's official opening will be held at 11.00am at the corner of Princes Highway and Ward Street, Cann River. It will coincide with a free competition for skateboarders, scooter riders and BMX riders, hosted by Skate Park Leagues.
The community facility's official opening will be held at 1.15pm at 25 School Road, Club Terrace.
All members of the community are invited to attend both events.
The Cann River Skate Park redevelopment saw the old park replaced with a new and challenging skate park designed with input from local young people. As the only formal recreational and sporting facility within a 100 km radius of Cann River, the skate park is particularly important for the wellbeing of the district's young people.
The Club Terrace Community Facility replaced the community hall which was severely damaged in the 2019-20 bushfires. The state-of-the-art hall will serve as a community hub for events, gatherings, and emergency support services. It will enhance community connectivity, provide essential services, and strengthen resilience against future disasters.
"The support we received from the Australian Government combined with the dedication of locals has made these new facilities possible," Mayor Cr Tom Crook said.
"Council is committed to creating conditions for our communities to thrive. This facility is an example of our dedication to providing infrastructure that meets the needs and aspirations of our community," Cr Crook stated.
The old Cann River Skate Park infrastructure had reached its end of life and was no longer safe. In addition to benefits for local young people, the new skate park will also attract visitors to stop in the town.
Providing facilities that encourage motorists to visit is an important part of the Cann River economy as they pass through on the Princes and Monaro Highways.
"There is anecdotal evidence of visitors choosing to make day trips, short stays, and even plan travel routes based on the availability of quality and enjoyable facilities for children," Cr Crook said.
The $546,916 skate park was funded by a grant from the Australia Government's Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.
The Club Terrace Community Facility was also funded by the Australian Government's Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program ($678,741), with a Council contribution of $18,047.
"This new community hall is more than just a building; it is a symbol of our community's resilience and strength," Mayor Cr Tom Crook said.
The 2019-20 bushfires devastated Club Terrace, destroying 17 homes and irreparably damaging the previous community hall.
Shortly after the fires, Governor-General David Hurley, alongside Major General Andrew Hocking from the National Bushfire Recovery Agency, visited to show their support for the community and the proposed community hall rebuild project. A letter from the Governor-General will be shared at the opening event.
"In times of emergency, it will offer a safe space and essential services. Together, the Project Reference Group, Council and the Australian Government have built not just a hall, but a more resilient future for Club Terrace," Cr Crook said.
