Campaspe Shire Council is delighted to announce its successful funding application under the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program. Council will receive $11.3 million in funding to redevelop the Victoria Park complex into a new multipurpose community and emergency relief centre.
The Growing Regions Program provides funding of between $500,000 and $15 million to local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations, for capital works projects that deliver community and economic infrastructure projects across regional and rural Australia.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Rob Amos said this was a tremendous outcome for the Echuca community that would bring to life a long-held community vision.
"We want to particularly acknowledge the involvement of the community reference group who have advocated for this project and provided significant input to inform the design.
"This will be a multigenerational, game-changing project to ensure this meets the needs of the community now and into the future.
"This project forms part of the broader Victoria Park and Scenic Trail masterplan and will connect to future projects including proposed cultural trails, nature walks, boat ramp and car park upgrades.
"We have identified that Victoria Park urgently requires redevelopment to cater to a growing community and visitor economy as well as establishing an adequate relief centre during emergencies, especially after the devastating October 2022 flood disaster which impacted Echuca and surrounds," Mayor Amos said.
The redevelopment project will include the demolition of existing infrastructure, including a playground, pavilion, function bar, grandstand, and facilities, to construct a new multipurpose sports, events, and emergency relief centre. The total estimated project cost is $13.3 million with Council contributing $2.0 million.
"The redevelopment will include a fit for purpose emergency relief centre that can support our community during future emergencies in a culturally safe, inclusive and accessible environment that allows delivery of key health and ancillary services during an emergency.
Other highlights within the scope of the project include:
- A new accessible, terraced grandstand housing around 400 seats which will provide an elevated view of the playing field and include an accessible timekeepers' box with a lift.
- A multipurpose universal community facility including accessible, culturally safe change rooms.
- A new function space catering for small and large events up to 250 seated and approximately 400 standing.
- Provision of accessible, inclusive and family friendly environments where young people, families and spectators can view and participate in community and sporting activities.
With detailed designs and permits already complete, Council anticipates the project to start during the 2024/25 financial year.
Mayor Amos commended the work of Council officers for their work undertaken to secure this funding.
"On behalf of Council I would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to all of the organisations who provided Letters of Support to boost our application and contributed to this achievement," Cr Amos said.
