28 August 2019
Students from Peninsula Specialist College in Dromana can now access and enjoy more of the Peninsula thanks to a purpose-built trailer for their bike riding excursions.
Main Ridge Men’s Shed, with funding assistance from Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Community Placemaking Grants and the Red Hill Lions Club, constructed the trailers after receiving a request from the College.
Members of the Shed were only too happy to take on the community project to construct a covered trailer capable of carrying up to 12 bikes and equipment.
A Community Placemaking Grant from the Shire provided $5,000 towards the project in addition to financial support from the Red Hill Lions Club and funds from the College.
A basic trailer was purchased locally at low cost from the Mornington Chamber of Commerce and remodelled to include a waterproof storage area for equipment and luggage and accommodate 12 bike racks.
Shed member Paddy Byrne took up the skills challenge and fellow member Rob Barfus sought funding and completed administration work.
Among other modifications, front and rear props were attached so that the trailers would be stable when stationary.
Once complete, the trailer was wrapped by Signforce in Somerville at a discounted rate. It is now ready to be towed by the school’s minibus.
Shire Mayor David Gill said the Shire’s Placemaking Grants program supports projects, programs and services that identify a community need and contribute to the building of stronger and more liveable communities.
“It was fantastic to visit the College and see the huge impact this new trailer will have for students.
“It’s community partnership projects like this that strengthen our communities”, concluded Cr Gill.
Seawinds Ward Councillor Frank Martin said “it’s wonderful to have our local community groups and businesses working together with the Shire to provide better facilities for our students”.
Seawinds Ward Councillor Simon Brooks said “this project is a great story of community joining forces for the greater good. I can’t wait to see the trailer out and about on the Peninsula”.
Seawinds Ward Councillor Antonella Celi said “everyone coming together to help remodel the trailer for the students shows how our community can support each other through social interaction, bonding together and encouraging recreational activity across the Peninsula”.
