Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad today opened Bonnie Doon’s community precinct following a major upgrade.
Ms Broad said one element of the project had created a walking path linking key community facilities.
“As part of the project, significant upgrade works have occurred at key locations around the town including the Community Centre, Recreation Reserve and the main street,” Ms Broad said.
“Other improvements have included upgraded fencing, picnic tables, feature lighting, signage, and the installation of water tanks for the harvest of storm water for use at community facilities.”
Ms Broad said the drought had greatly impacted on Bonnie Doon because of its high dependence on Lake Eildon-based tourism and the stresses faced by farming families.
“Significantly improving the appearance of Bonnie Doon will encourage passing traffic to stop in the town to shop at local businesses, providing a boost to the local economy at a time when traders are suffering from the drought and lack of water in the Bonnie Doon arm of Lake Eildon,” Ms Broad said
“Amenity, safety, cohesion and appropriate community facilities are also key determinants for attracting new residents to a town.
“Improving town facilities as well as safety within the town will enhance Bonnie Doon as a potential lifestyle destination.
“The project will also implement measures which will significantly reduce use of potable water through harvesting and capturing storm water for watering the oval and for use in local facilities like toilet blocks,” Ms Broad said.
Ms Broad said the Brumby Labor Government had provided funding of $166,000 to Mansfield Shire Council from Regional Development Victoria’s Small Towns Development Fund.
“The Mansfield Shire Council contributed $45,000 towards the cost of the $249,000 project and the community provided the rest through cash and in-kind contributions,” Ms Broad said.
“The Small Towns Development Fund is helping Victoria’s smaller towns create jobs, drive economic growth and improve community infrastructure.
“The Bonnie Doon Township Enhancement project is typical of all Small Towns Development Fund projects, which are making a big difference to small towns,” Ms Broad said.