By Jessica Anstice
Casey region emergency services, cultural groups, homeless services and sports clubs are among the 10 projects chosen for funding through the state governments Pick My Project initiative.
The most popular Casey project, with 1688 votes, was the landscaping and construction of car parks at the BVV Yun Yang Temple premises.
The non-for-profit ethnically diverse organisation will receive $198,196 in funding.
Completion of the project will provide a well maintained temple premises without having mud, dirt and dust with dedicated parking spaces for elderly and disabled passengers.
The Spirit of Great Lake – Kadawara Yaagaya Production was up there with 1527 votes and will receive $38,850.
The production is a folk opera presented by Sri Lankan Dance Academy of Victoria. Their intention is to share cultural traditions with the public through dance and music.
Narre Warren North Fire Brigade will receive realistic training equipment thanks to the 1097 votes and $21,453 funding and Cranbourne Fire Brigade will receive $50,000 to update their communication media.
With a $50,081 grant, the Sikh Free Food Van will nourish people who are hungry and facing tough times in Casey.
Under the Stars will receive $200,000 to provide 10 free movie events in Casey.
Hampton Park Progress Association will receive $72,772 to run its multicultural night market festival next year.
Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House will receive $200,000 to set up a community garden and food share project with three other community centres in Casey.
Narre Warren South Labor Candidate, Gary Maas said, “More than 285,000 votes were cast in this very first Pick My Project with about $700,000 going to Narre Warren South community groups.
“A testament to the collective will and innovative thinking of the community.”
Cranbourne Bowls Club will receive $60,581 to build a new outdoor area with shade sails and Cranbourne Public Hall will take $36,498 to purchase solar panels.
