Benalla Rural City Council has endorsed its 2023/24 Annual Report at its Council meeting on 23 October, highlighting its achievements and performance over the past 12 months, as measured against key objectives outlined in the Council Plan 2021-2025.
This year, Council invested more than $7.014 million into its Capital Works Program, bringing significant infrastructure improvements to local amenities and services, further benefitting the wider community.
Capital works included the kerb and channel replacement program, renewal of bicycle and walking paths, and the reconstruction of the Ackerly Avenue roundabout. The lakeside boardwalk near the Benalla Art Gallery was also replaced, and the Devenish Drainage project was completed to enhance water management.
Upgrades were also made to the Baddaginnie Jubilee Hall toilets, Denny Street carpark, rural bridges, and the Visitor Information Centre. The Benalla Town Hall received an update, and the community welcomed its first purpose-built dog park, adding a new, welcoming space for pet owners and their dogs.
The sale of council-owned industrial land at Enterprise Park will meet industry and job growth with the development of approximately 100 new industrial lots.
The Council continued to support the growth and vitality of rural communities, investing $432,000 in 15 rural township projects. This included delivering upgrades to community facilities, new playground installations, carpark improvements, and fence replacements.
Council's Community Grants and Funding Program continued to support and encourage inclusive, resilient and active communities by providing funding for 62 local projects and events to the value of $94,666.
The Council has also approved the Benalla Fawckner Drive Masterplan, marking a significant milestone in enhancing this centrally located community space. The Masterplan includes upgrades to existing facilities, new amenities and improvements to pedestrian pathways. The Victorian Government has contributed $1,000,000 towards the development of the pump track, identified as a priority project by the community.
Benalla Rural City Council CEO, Dom Testoni, expressed his pride in the community's achievements over the past year.
"The progress Council has made is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community and staff. These projects and initiatives not only improve our infrastructure but also enhance the quality of life for all residents. We are committed to continuing this positive momentum and ensuring Benalla remains a vibrant and thriving community."
"We extend our gratitude to the Victorian and Australian Governments for their continued support and financial contributions," Mr Testoni said.
Council's 2023/24 Annual Report is available to download at www.benalla.vic.gov.au or view a hard copy at the Benalla Customer Service Centre, 1 Bridge Street East, Benalla from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 4pm.
