Zoe Moffatt
Sunbury and Macedon Ranges have been given an education boost in the state budget, which was released on May 23.
Sunbury TAFE was a big winner with the state government investing $25 million to deliver a new campus in partnership with Bendigo Kangan Institute. Of this investment, $6.336 million was allocated for the project next financial year.
Other schools in Sunbury and Macedon Ranges to receive funding include $5 million towards a new campus of Holy Trinity Primary School in Sunbury.
Gisborne Secondary College will receive $5.8 million for a new Trades Hub, with $389,000 allocated in the 2023-24 budget.
Kyneton High School will receive $2.132 million, and Diggers Rest Primary School will receive $8.708 million.
Goonawarra Primary School has been allocated $8.474 million in this budget.
Gladstone Park Secondary College will also receive funds to start its upgrade plans.
Sunbury MP Josh Bull said the government will make sure Victorian children have access to first-rate education facilities.
“Education changes lives and gives kids the best start for the best life,” Mr Bull said.
“The new Sunbury TAFE facility will be a boon for our area – making sure new residents have access to the quality facilities and training they need for the jobs they want, close to home.
“We’ll make sure that no matter where parents choose to send their kids to school, they’ll have first-rate facilities for a world-class education.”
Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre will receive $1.3 million towards water play equipment, while Kyneton Football Netball Club has been allocated $1.5 million for new changerooms and courts.
Local neighbourhood houses also received a cash splash, with Goonawarra Neighbourhood House and Lancefield Neighbourhood House to receive a $100,000 each, and Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House to receive $50,000.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the government is investing on what matters for Victorians.
“From Kyneton to Riddells Creek and Hepburn to Romsey – the Andrews Labor Government is delivering on every election promise we made to the people of Macedon,” Ms Thomas said.
“We’re doing what matters: investing in the schools, healthcare, transport network and community spaces local families need now and into the future.”