By Casey Neill
AFTER months of uncertainty, Burrinja Cultural Centre and Montrose Recreation Reserve upgrades are a step closer following a Federal Government funding win.
Federal funds for the $9.6 million Upwey performing arts centre and a $1.85 million recreation reserve redevelopment were finally confirmed last week.
The Howard Government had pledged $2 million for Burrinja and $600,000 for the recreation reserve under its Regional Partnerships program.
However, the incoming Labor Government scrapped the program in May and cancelled funding to all projects which did not have signed contracts.
These included the Burrinja and Montrose Recreation Reserve upgrades.
But following a community outcry, Regional Devel opment Minister Anthony Albanese announced a U-turn and agreed to review several unconfirmed projects, including the two hills redevelopments.
The funding was finally given the go ahead last week.
Burrinja president Paul O’Halloran said this decision was made possible by the hundreds of community members who fought to have the funding reinstated.
Mr O’Halloran said the successful restoration of the promised Federal cash proves that strong community support can create positive change.
“The community’s on-going support has been greatly appreciated and we know it makes a difference,” he said.
Streeton Ward councillor Noel Cliff said the shire and the community had fought hard for the cash.
“This really is a great outcome for the people of the Dandenong Ranges and will ultimately deliver to the region a first class performance space that will benefit the entire community,” he said.
The Burrinja redevelopment will include a 400-seat auditorium, indigenous cultural education garden, and improvements to the studios and galleries.
The shire allocated $4.6 million to the project while the State Government committed $3 million.
Walling Ward councillor Len Cox thanked local MPs for their strong support in securing the funds.
The Montrose Recreation Reserve upgrade will include a sporting pavilion upgrade and tennis court resurfacing at a cost to the shire of $710,000.
The State Government pledged $380,000 for the project while local sporting clubs chipped in $160,000.
The shire will consider a planning application for the Burrinja redevelopment at its 12 August meeting.
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