A recreation precinct in Macarthur, which was redeveloped with extensive community consultation, is now complete thanks to the investment from all levels of government.
Officially opened today by Federal Labor Senator Raff Ciccone, alongside State Member for Western Victoria, Jacinta Ermacora, and Moyne Shire Mayor, Ian Smith, the Macarthur Precinct redevelopment will boost community engagement and revitalise the centre of town.
It was supported by $480,000 from the Australian Government, $500,000 from Emergency Recovery Victoria under the Federal-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and a further $300,000 from the Victorian Government through Sport and Recreation Victoria, as well as $192,000 from Moyne Shire Council and $50,000 from community contributions.
The precinct is home to the Macarthur Bowls Club and community outdoor pool, as well as open space, gardens and various other amenities.
Stage 1 works were fully funded by the Australian Government and included new footpaths, kerb and parking improvements, drainage improvements and refurbishment of existing shade structures.
Stage 2 works delivered a new play space, multi-sport court, barbeque and shade facilities, splash pad along with landscaping and road and access improvements to the precinct.
Moyne Shire was one of the 18 eligible LGAs that could access DRFA funding as part of ongoing recovery from the 2019-20 Victorian Bushfires.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:
"It's fantastic to see work on the Macarthur Precinct complete, the new facilities will revitalise the town centre and provide a space for locals to better connect.
"Seeing this complete is a great result for the community, as they were front and centre of the design process.
"This just one of many projects in which we're partnering with Moyne Shire Council as part of over $14.69 million in LRCI funding from the Australian Government."
Quotes attributable to Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone:
"The Macarthur Precinct upgrade is another great project for our state thanks to funding from the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
"Whether it's upgrading a sport, recreation or other community infrastructure project, increased funding from the Federal Government enables councils to progress projects that have a lasting impact in their communities.
"The Albanese Government is pleased to work with our Victorian counterparts and local government colleagues to achieve such an important project for the community."
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes:
"These facilities will be invaluable to the local community, allowing Macarthur residents to gather and spend time together, exercise and celebrate their resilient community."
Quotes attributable to State Member for Western Victoria, Jacinta Ermacora:
"The Victorian Government is committed to investing in projects that boost recreation and unlock economic opportunities.
"That's why we were proud to inject $800,000 to reimagine this Precinct, which will increase community engagement and encourage more people to make the most of everything this beautiful part of Macarthur has to offer."
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Moyne Shire, Cr Ian Smith:
"This project has revitalised the centre of Macarthur and created an amazing precinct for the community and visitors to enjoy.
"We are proud to have worked with the Federal Government to deliver these improvements."
