Backflips welcomed

By Tania Martin and Casey Neill
TWO vital hills projects have been thrown a lifeline following a federal government back flip.
More than $2.6 million in funding was cut last month from Burrinja’s performing art centre upgrade and the Montrose Recreation Reserve.
Both projects were dumped following the axing of the Regional Partnership Program.
The Mail reported in its story Budget Drama last month that the funding had been announced by the previous Liberal government.
The Burrinja project stood to lose $2 million while a further $600,000 was in doubt for the upgrade of the Montrose Recreation Reserve.
Regional Development Minister Anthony Albanese told the Mail that the program was axed due to the maladministration of the previous government.
He said the program was cut following a recommendation from independent body, the National Audit Office. Mr Albanese said that any of the projects that had not been contracted would not receive funding.
But following intense community pressure Mr Albanese was forced to reassess the government’s decision.
He last week announced that a review of up to 86 not-for-profits and local government projects which were granted approval under the axed program.
“It is clear from our discussions with community groups and local councils that many were led to believe that funding agreements had been finalised with the previous government,” he said.
Mr Albanese said that project organisers would have until 31 July to complete contract negotiations with the government.
“In addition, they will be required to meet strict timetables and requirements to begin construction,” he said.
“This is to ensure they are sustainable and genuine projects.” Burrinja executive officer Ross Farnell said he was relieved they did not have to complete the entire application process again.
Shire of Yarra Ranges councillor Len Cox said that Montrose residents were now keeping their fingers crossed that the funding would be reinstated.
Cr Cox said reinstating the funding would be the only right thing to do.
“The government got it wrong but at least they were brave enough to admit it,” he said.
“These promises were legitimate and should have gone ahead.”
Casey MP Tony Smith said it was great to see the Rudd government finally opening its eye and waking up to how important these community projects were.
But he said that the battle for the reserve’s funding was far from over.
“I will be fighting every step of the way in Canberra for the government to honour this contract,” Mr Smith said.