By Ethan Benedicto
Bruce electorate’s candidate Zahid Safi has recently announced a $240,000 funding commitment to construct a dog park in Sweeney Reserve, despite it already being funded by the Victorian State Government.
The park in Berwick was announced as one of the 26 parks across the state that would receive funding by the state’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks program, a project totalling $4.9 million.
On his website, Safi clarified that an elected Liberal Federal government would commit the amount.
The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, said that “Casey welcomes funding commitment from all levels of government and election candidates”.
“Council is delighted that the Victorian Government has funded the requested $240,000 for the Sweeney Reserve Dog Park.”
Koomen also welcomed Safi’s commitment of funding to the park, adding that “in the event that this funding was received, there would be more funding than required for the project.”
“Council would seek to negotiate so any surplus funds would be made available to other projects,” he said.
The Liberal voice in the electorate has, overall, had a strong presence as the election draws nearer.
Safi has seen strong support since his candidacy announcement in 2024, and more recently, on 7 April, his campaign’s official start, proving to be a capable contender against long-time Labor MP Julian Hill.
However, his progress has been hit with roadblocks, with, more recently, the ‘sacking’ of his social media manager, Andrew McNabb, by the Liberals for a series of abusive social media posts.
Safi was also on the firing end of a small protest and a series of heckles during an Eid prayer event on Monday, 31 March.
Alongside LaTrobe MP Jason Wood, Safi was there to pledge $6.5 million of funding for the Afghan Islamic Centre and Omar Farooq Mosque (AICOM), which Safi is a member of.
More on Sweeney Reserve: Safi promised $210,300 for upgraded flood lights at the softball and baseball diamond, a commitment that wasn’t made beforehand by the state government.
By the same token, he also announced $691,000 to redevelop Max Pawsey Reserve’s football and cricket pavilion, a higher number than previously offered by Labor during Hill’s commitment of $400,000 for reinvigoration.
In a Facebook video, Safi, alongside Sussan Ley MP, announced the funding and, if elected, said the party would deliver better playing fields and – what seemed to be a similar series of promises as Labor – which included female change rooms.
On 1 April, Safi officially opened his campaign office in Berwick, near the Langmore Podiatry on Langmore Lane.
Star News reached out to Safi for a comment on the topics, including funding, but have received no reply.
This story is developing, and more information will be added once it becomes available.
