By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE State Government’s Interface Growth Fund report was formally presented to representatives from the interface councils, including Casey, at Parliament House this week.
Interface Councils chairman and Nillumbik Shire Council Mayor Bronnie Hattam presented the final Benefits Report to Local Government Minister Natalie Hutchins on Wednesday.
Casey Mayor Sam Aziz and CEO Mike Tyler were among the representatives from the City of Casey where a community centre and a cycling precinct were given a funding boost from the growth fund.
The Bridgewater Family and Community Centre in Berwick will use $1.4 million from the fund to build a third kindergarten room and carry out improvements to the maternal and child health waiting room and consultation room, reception area and a multi-purpose community room.
A further $1.12 million in funding will go to expand the Casey Cycling Precinct, which will support the existing cycling clubs at Casey Fields.
“As well as boosting economic activity in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, the Interface Growth Fund will also play an imperative role in addressing the four key areas of social disadvantage experienced in interface communities including fragile families, poor health outcomes, at risk youth and isolated ageing,” Cr Hattam said.
“The social and economic outcomes that will be achieved through the 26 projects that include children’s services, community and recreation facilities, is just a taste of what can be achieved with this fund and highlights its role in creating liveable and sustainable communities in Melbourne’s outer suburbs.”
