Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville today announced a $1.4 million grant from the Andrews Labor Government to fund priority projects in the Lancefield area to help the community to continue its recovery following the Lancefield-Cobaw fire.
An initial grant of $450,000 will go towards upgrades of the netball facilities at Lancefield Park and $150,000 will fund works at the Mechanics Institute.
A further $800,000 will be provided in the 2016/2017 financial year for further works at Lancefield Park.
Lancefield Park is a multi-use area that includes a number of sporting facilities with 17 key user groups.
The Mechanics Institute Hall is a central meeting place for the community and was used during the Lancefield – Cobaw fires as a coordination point, a public meeting area and a refuge for people who had been evacuated from their homes.
The Macedon Ranges Council submitted a list of priority projects to DELWP Loddon Mallee for funding consideration.
The Lancefield Mechanics Institute Committee of Management requested $150,000 to build a new toilet facility in the hall.
The final priorities for the $800,000 allocated for 2016/17 will be determined in conjunction with council and the 17 user groups of Lancefield Park.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville
“The Lancefield-Cobaw fire had a significant impact on the local economy and resilience of local residents. Investing in new and upgraded facilities at Lancefield will provide an economic stimulus for the area by providing work for local tradespeople.”
“Our focus is putting communities first and we hope these grants go some way to ensuring the sense of community and resilience that is evident here in Lancefield is supported into the future.”
Quote attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
“We know the Lancefield community recently endured difficult times which also affected the local economy and the investment of $1.4 million in new and upgraded facilities at Lancefield will provide a boost for the community and stimulus for the local economy.”
Reviewed 10 February 2021