Construction on two of Bass Coast Shire Council's major projects has now officially begun, after sod-turning events were held for the Cowes Cultural and Community Centre and Wonthaggi Guide Park developments on Thursday.
The Guide Park project is being completed by Planned Construction Group, who will employ largely local workers in the project.
Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Michael Whelan that Planned Construction Group directors Josh and Dean were excited to take on the project, having grown up in Wonthaggi with fond childhood memories of Guide Park.
"This is a really exciting project for not only Wonthaggi, but the whole of Bass Coast," Cr Whelan said.
"Guide Park will become an inclusive, regional scale playspace catering for all ages and abilities.
"The design draws upon extensive community consultation with elements reflecting the Shire's coal mining history and amazing natural environment."
Some of the highlights of the redevelopment include a unique mining themed tower, an accessible carousel, double flying fox, creek bed, nature based play and a trampoline.
The Project will see the removal of the existing playground, with the new playspace located under the established trees for shade. Other amenities include an accessible public barbecue, new pathways, roadways and parking.
"This wonderful community project would not have been possible without the support from the Victorian Government, with grants of $700,000 through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund and $350,000 from the Growing Suburbs Fund," Cr Whelan said.
Cr Whelan said Thursday's sod-turn was a momentous step for the Cowes Cultural and Community Centre.
"This exciting project was first identified as a major project over seven years ago and once complete, will become a wonderful asset for the Bass Coast community, located in the heart of Cowes," Cr Whelan said.
"During the 14-month construction program, the building will generate 69 jobs and once built, 30 ongoing jobs and it will provide $51.8 million in economic benefit over the life of the project.
"In line with Council's Climate Change Action Plan, this Centre will be built, designed and certified to Passivhaus Standards, making it the most environmentally significant building in the region," Cr Whelan concluded.
This $27.2 million project has received funding support from the State Government, including $2.5 million from the Growing Suburbs Fund, $800,000 from the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and a $10 million loan from the Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme, as well as $5 million in funding from the Federal Government's Building Better Regions Program.
