The community of Golden Plains Shire will soon have a new Youth Hub, which is set to improve health, education and employment for young people.
Representing Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane, Labor Member for Western Victoria, the Hon Gayle Tierney MP, today attended the project’s official sod-turning at Bannockburn.
The project is supported with $271,000 through the Andrews Labor Government’s 2020-2021 round of the Growing Suburbs Fund, which supports the creation of community connections, enhanced services, and provides greater opportunities for the local community.
The project’s youth-specific Hub will give young people the chance to form social connections, learn and develop skills, build resilience, confidence and competence through access to local services, support and events. The existing building will be repurposed and rotated to face north to improve natural heating and utilise the outdoor decking area.
This $561,000 project will be delivered by Golden Plains Shire Council, that is also making a $90,000 in-kind contribution. The Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and Bannockburn and District Grants Inc. are both contributing $100,000 to the project.
The Growing Suburbs Fund has invested more than $721,000 in support to the Golden Plains Shire Council, including $450,000 towards the recent Ross Creek Play and Active Recreation Upgrade.
Since its establishment in 2015, the Growing Suburbs fund has supported 253 projects in Victoria, representing a total infrastructure investment of $913.2 million. Golden Plains Shire Council has been eligible to apply for the Growing Suburbs Fund since 2020.
More information on the Growing Suburbs Fund is available at: https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants/growing-suburbs-fund
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“It’s great to see the Growing Suburbs Fund delivering projects like the Golden Plains Shire Youth Hub, providing vital services to growing communities.”
“This hub will be a place where all young people can come to relax, connect with peers and get advice and support if needed.”
“I’m really pleased the government has continued its support for our thriving community though projects like this. It will not only be a facility for Bannockburn residents, but for youth right across Golden Plains Shire.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government, Shaun Leane
“The Andrews Labor Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund provides crucial community infrastructure and is delivering results for local communities.”
“The Growing Suburbs Fund is helping fast growing communities like Golden Plains Shire get the vital community facilities they need, so they can continue to thrive as the population increases.”