Northern Grampians geared for growth
We've been flying the flag for the region and have had 18 one-on-one meetings in the Victorian Parliament with government ministers, shadow ministers and their advisers. We were able to chat to our MPs about a range of projects including the Western Highway Duplication, the Stawell housing development, road maintenance and the future development of Great Western. I'm so impressed with the way we were received and listened to. We've put in a lot of work with the local community to develop the key infrastructure projects and programs so it has been really rewarding to be able to present these priorities to the state government.
We're approaching the deadline for expressions of interest (EOI) for the residential development at Sloane Street in Stawell. The site is located close to the Western Highway with great access for road, rail and air transport. There is eight hectares available for development, room enough for between 60 and 110 dwellings. About a quarter of Stawell's residents are currently renting with low availability of land and house stock for purchase. There is certainly a market for new housing. EOIs are open until Friday 11 October.
We're really excited to be one of only six local government areas who will benefit from greater access to three-year old kindergarten services from 2020. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews visited Stawell to discuss the reforms which will give families access to partly subsidised or, in some cases, fully subsidised three-year-old kinder. This means our children will have a major head start in their learning and development with the extra year of kinder, not to mention a whole lot of fun as well.
We're looking for community input on a variety of projects including the Stawell Parks precinct master plan and the Future Story for St Arnaud. The community can keep up to date with projects and have their say by heading to the EngagING portal on the Northern Grampians Shire Council website.
Spring means show season and we're geared up for some fantastic activities and attractions at this year's agricultural shows. The St Arnaud Show is held the weekend of 5-6 th October and the Stawell show on Saturday 26 th October. So save the dates and make sure you go along and support your local agricultural show.
Big congratulations to the Great Western Lions on their premiership. First flag in 36 years is very exciting indeed!
Cr Kevin Erwin
MAYOR
