Nationals' candidate for Lyne Alison Penfold is working to keep locals safe, committing $1 million in funding support for a major upgrade to Pacific Palms Recreation Club's emergency evacuation facilities.
Ms Penfold announced the milestone commitment under an incoming Coalition Government alongside Shadow Minister for Emergency Management Senator Perin Davey.
"Pacific Palms is a tight-knit community and the 'Recky' has been a central gathering point in good times and bad, including acting as the local emergency evacuation centre during times of natural disaster," Ms Penfold said.
"Together, Shadow Minister Perin Davey, Dr David Gillespie, and I worked with the proponents on this project to ensure the right support can be provided at the right time, culminating in today's announcement."
The upgrade will include increasing the building's footprint to create dedicated areas for emergency service operations, construction of an accessibility ramp, accessible entrance and disabled parking, and improving carpark drainage.
Senator Davey said she was pleased to see the project receive the support it deserved.
"Having visited the Recky with Alison last year to view this proposal, it was immediately apparent why we need to prioritise funding to ensure the site is fit-for-purpose as a designated evacuation centre, and I am glad we have been able to do that. The bonus is, while making the needed upgrades to meet the needs of an evacuation centre, it will also make the club more accessible and inclusive for families in the area," Senator Davey said.
The full upgrade of the Recreation Club has an estimated cost of $2 million, with the club seeking a 50 per cent contribution which Ms Penfold has secured if elected as part of a Coalition Government.
Ms Penfold said the upgrade was part of her big-picture plan to create stronger, safer and better communities throughout Lyne through investment in social infrastructure.
"David Gillespie has been a vocal and local champion for Lyne, and I am committed to building on his legacy of delivering for our region - whether it's help for grassroots community groups, funding for major infrastructure projects or standing up for our local way of life," she said.
"Right now, our country and local communities need strong, decisive and 'Australia-first' leadership at the national and local level, and that is what I am determined to deliver. The only way to turn this country around and ensure that our area gets the resources and services we need is to Vote 1 for Alison Penfold."
