Elsie Lange
Macedon Ranges council has praised funding announcements made in the state budget, despite missing out on $5 million for stage two of the regional sports precinct.
Two weeks before the 2022-23 budget released on Tuesday, May 3, council told Star Weekly it acknowledged the government’s $14.8 million towards stage one of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct (MRRSP), but sought a further $5 million for stage two.
Following the budget’s release, chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan said council will continue to advocate during the current state election year for the funding, to build on the $15 million stage two commitment from both major federal parties.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the government had already provided significant funding for stage one, which hadn’t yet commenced.
“In 2018, I made it clear to the people of Macedon that we would invest in the MRRSP.
“We have delivered $14.8 million to that project, and we are yet to see a shovel turned – there’s a range of reasons for that including COVID– but this is a staged process.
“I’ll certainly continue to keep an eye on its development,” she said.
Mr O’Sullivan welcomed the $810,000 investment in the iconic Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Reserve, the $500,000 to upgrade the intersection at Urquhart and High streets in Woodend and the $1.5 million to upgrade Woodend station.
He also praised the funding of the Loddon Campaspe Regional Partnership first and second priorities – with $6.6 million to continue the Healthy Heart of Victoria Program aiming to improve the health of the community, and a share in $1.1 million to go to the Youth Live4Life program.
“Council also acknowledges that the Victorian government’s budget includes $2.6 billion to ensure regional Victoria is ready to host the Commonwealth Games in 2026,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“We will be working hard to ensure the Macedon Ranges can play its part in welcoming visitors and athletes to our beautiful and unique shire, landscapes, facilities and businesses.”
