At Tuesday’s meeting of Campaspe Shire Council, an Expression of Interest application to the Australian Government’s ‘Growing Regions Program’ was endorsed to seek funding for the multi-purpose facility which was included in the 2023 Victoria Park Masterplan.
The application is a two-stage process, beginning with an Expression of Interest. Council has endorsed the Expression of Interest and will submit an application for Growing Regions Program funding by the 1 August deadline, with the full application presented for council approval before the due date of 12 December.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Rob Amos said the endorsement of the Expression of Interest application is an exciting and welcomed step forward to progressing the Victoria Park Masterplan in Echuca.
“I am thrilled to see the Victoria Park Masterplan moving in the right direction. It’s an important project for and will become a great investment for our region. We are excited to proceed with the Expression of Interest, after endorsing the Masterplan in March of this year.
“Many of the key recreational groups that use Victoria Park have been consulted and engaged to develop the Masterplan and multi-purpose facility project.
“In March 2023, Council adopted the Victoria Park Masterplan. The Masterplan proposed a new multi-purpose facility that complies with AFL and Cricket Victoria standards, as well as the option to be used as a relief centre when required. The facility would be designed and developed to accommodate current and future users.
“The Growing Regions Program is a federal government funding program that drives regional economic development and longevity by providing access to funds for community-focused infrastructure projects.
“The Growing Regions Program requires a co-contribution from Council but the percentage is yet to be determined as projects located in areas which have been directly impacted by natural disaster may be eligible for 90% funding, meaning that this project could potentially be co-funded with just 10% of the costs being required from Council.
“However, that is yet to be determined through the eligibility criteria required through the Expression of Interest process. If Council is deemed ineligible, a co-contribution of up to 50% of eligible project costs would be required,” Cr Amos added.
The Victoria Park Masterplan is available to view on Council’s website.
