Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP this week recommended State Government funding for the Golden Plains Shire’s priority sport and recreation project, the Woady Yaloak Equestrian Centre Upgrade.
Speaking in Parliament, Ms Tierney urged the Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty to support the Shire’s application to fund this important project.
“The centre currently has 15,000 visitors competing in activities per year,” Ms Tierney said
“The time has now come to further upgrade the Centre and the Golden Plains Shire is seeking just under $300,000 to develop a high quality multi-purpose amenities facility at the Centre in Smythesdale.
“The project involves the development of a new 300 square metre amenities facility which would increase the range of programs offered at the facility providing the capacity to attract more events, both at regional and state level,” Ms Tierney said.
In 2004, the former Bracks Government, together with the Shire and local community, funded the $460,000 upgrade of the Woady Yaloak Equestrian Centre, formally known as the Smythesdale Equestrian Reserve.
This funding created a regional venue for equine recreation including dressage, show jumping, cross country and polo-crosse.
The application currently before the State Government involves further upgrading the facility including the construction of a judge’s area, meeting space and function area, female and male changerooms, toilets, first-aid room, kitchen, water tanks and a sheltered viewing area.
“An upgraded facility will enable the Equestrian Centre to hold major events and functions in the region and further encourage Golden Plains Shire communities, and communities in Western Victoria, to participate in equine sport and recreation activities,” Ms Tierney said.
The full transcript of Ms Tierney speech in the Legislative Council can be viewed at http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/hansard
