A landmark community precinct for the people of Warragul is now a step closer to reality, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

On behalf of Local Government Minister Shaun Leane, Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced $3.5 million in funding for the Baw Baw Civic Precinct Stage 1 development. The funding comes from the 2021-22 round of the Growing Suburbs Fund (GSF), which helps interface and peri-urban councils deliver high-quality facilities for their communities.

This important and much-needed precinct will be delivered by Baw Baw Shire Council and will include an inspiring new community building at the edge of Civic Park in Warragul, the Shire’s largest town. With a library, gallery, co-working spaces, cafe, community rooms and a roof garden, it will become a hub offering much-needed services, activities and other opportunities for the community.

Ms Shing also officially broke ground on the Bellbird Park East Multi-Use Pavilion in Drouin, a $4 million project supported with $2 million from last year’s GSF. This pavilion will be home to local sporting and community groups and include a community meeting space, commercial kitchen, female-friendly facilities as well as a renewed playground and barbecue area.

This is the third round of GSF support for Baw Baw Shire, after the popular and successful fund was expanded to peri-urban councils two years ago. Since then, the council has received $6 million from the GSF for three projects, including the Bellbird Park East Multi-Use Pavilion and Longwarry Early Learning Centre.

Since it was established in 2015, the Growing Suburbs Fund has facilitated over $1.07 billion in local infrastructure, created more than 10,200 jobs and supported 299 projects across our fastest-growing areas.

For more information on the Growing Suburbs Fund and other local government grants programs, visit www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au. To find out more about the projects helping communities and businesses thrive in your local area, visit www.delivering.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government, Shaun Leane

“Every Growing Suburbs Fund project we support helps deliver vital facilities, creates jobs and makes a real difference for our fastest-growing communities.”

“I’m thrilled that we can work with Baw Baw Shire Council as they create vibrant community facilities that can be enjoyed by people for years to come.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“I’m delighted that the Andrews Labor Government has continued its support for the thriving communities across Baw Baw through projects like the Bellbird Park East Pavilion and now the Baw Baw Civic Precinct.”

“West Gippsland is a beautiful part of Victoria, and the Growing Suburbs Fund is making it an even better place live and work – helping to create facilities close to home that everyone can be proud of and enjoy.”