The communities of Hawkesdale and Wangoom in the state’s southwest are set to benefit from refurbishments to their memorial halls thanks to a $307,500 grant from the Andrews Labor Government.
In south west Victoria today, Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford made the announcement while meeting with representatives from Moyne Shire Council, which will deliver the $615,000.00 project.
Both halls were built in the late 1950s but are still in constant use today for training workshops, community meetings, and private functions - making them true hubs of their local community.
The Wangoom Hall upgrade will install new accessible toilets, improve access to the building for people of all abilities, upgrade the kitchen, and reconfigure the internal space to create a multi-use space with views to the tennis courts and playground.
The Hawkesdale Hall project will upgrade the existing toilets, install a new accessible toilet, and develop a utility space to better cater for Hall’s varied uses.
The funding for Hawkesdale comes after the recent fires in south west Victoria and will help contribute to the community’s recovery efforts.
Both halls play an important role in the community as a communal meeting place and as a revenue source when rented for events and private functions.
The townships identified the refurbishment of their community halls as their top priority in consultation with Moyne Shire and are fundraising to contribute to the overall project cost.
Right across the state, the Labor Government is investing in initiatives that make regional Victoria a better place to live, work and do business.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Community Halls are so often the lifeblood of regional Victoria and we’re so proud to deliver these important upgrades together with Moyne Shire.”
“This will make all the difference to locals who use community halls day in and day out.”
“We’re proud to support these important upgrades, which will build resilience and pride in these communities.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“We’re getting it done, listening and delivering for communities in the southwest region.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020