The Victorian Government is contributing $18,901 towards the redevelopment of the Aireys Inlet Hall, the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney announced today.
Ms Tierney said the project would encourage greater use and improve the long-term sustainability of the facility through the installation of a commercial kitchen and provision of a portable stage.
“Aireys Inlet is part of a rapidly growing coastal community that includes Aireys Inlet and the surrounding areas of Fairhaven, Moggs Creek and Eastern View,” Ms Tierney said.
“Sea changers are seeking the comfort of semi-rural communities with ready access to bushland and beaches while weekend residents are retiring to their weekend residences in increasing numbers.
“The Aireys Inlet Hall is the only community function space in Aireys Inlet. The facility is managed by the Anderson Roadknight Reserve Committee of Management which consists of community members representing a range of community groups and interests.”
Ms Tierney said the Victorian Government was supporting the project because it would improve the amenity and functionality of the facility and provide much needed community infrastructure for a growing population.
“The project has been developed in response to community needs, allowing for both local and large scale community events as well as providing appropriate facilities for use during emergencies,” Ms Tierney said.
“Increased use will encourage greater community social interaction by creating an attractive and more usable meeting space and strengthen the centre’s position as the primary community hub for the Aireys Inlet coastal community.”
Ms Tierney said the grant for the $37,802 Aireys Inlet Hall Upgrade project would be provided to the Surf Coast Shire through the Brumby Government’s Small Towns Development Fund. Matching funding will be provided by the Anderson Roadknight Reserve Committee of Management and the Aireys Inlet Farmers Market.
“The Small Towns Development Fund is helping Victoria’s smaller towns create jobs, drive economic growth and improve community infrastructure,” Ms Tierney said.
“So far, the fund has provided $38.5 million toward 418 community and social infrastructure projects worth $82.8 million right across provincial Victoria.
“The Brumby Government has allocated $61 million to the Small Towns Development Fund since it was established in 2003, including an extra $5 million and an improved funding ratio for small municipalities as part of Moving Forward: Update – The Next Two Years.
