BASS Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead was far from shy in putting forward Bass Coast’s case for more federal funding during a recent visit to Canberra with CEO Greg Box.
A bucket of money for the Phillip Island Recreation Reserve and Aquatic Centre, more money and an acceptable timeline to fight sand erosion at Inverloch and Silverleaves, and a federally funded initiative to provide social housing, office space and a community centre on the site of the former Wonthaggi Secondary School were all on the agenda.
Not too much to ask?
Not enough according to the newly elected Liberal Member for Monash Mary Aldred MP.
Absorbed in her own battle to keep face-to-face banking alive in regional towns like Korumburra the Bendigo Bank was firmly in Ms Aldred’s sights when she raised the issue during question time.
“The Bendigo Bank recently announced it would close its Korumburra branch in South Gippsland, a terrible outcome for our community and one that demands the opportunity for a broader national focus.”
Supporting Bass Coast Council on the delivery of roads and infrastructure Ms Aldred said she was absolutely committed to delivering adequate funding for the Phillip Island Recreation Reserve.
Meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles MP, Mayor Halstead said it was about advocating for the regions and putting Bass Coast front of mind.
The Bass Coast delegation also met with the Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King MP.
“The Cape to Cape Resilience Plan is still being dealt with,” said Cr Halstead.
“Silverleaves also needs more attention.
The Wonthaggi Secondary College site also needs to be progressed.”
Bass Coast Shire Council asked for a $660,000 grant for a feasibility study to ensure the best outcome for the former Wonthaggi Secondary School site including housing, space for the arts and office space.
“What we need is a funding strategy to see how this jigsaw comes together.”
“All the councillors are on the same page to ensure we deliver the best possible outcomes,” said Cr Halstead.
“The secondary school site is a priority, and its future depends on funding.”
Cr Rochelle Halstead also met with Senator Sarah Hanson-Young from the Australian Greens who agreed that coastal erosion was being overlooked by the current Government.
“The solution needs to come from a national level,” said Cr Halstead.
While firmly denying she would consider running for a seat in state parliament, Mayor Halstead said next year’s state election would be critical for Bass Coast Shire.
“I’m happy where I am,” said Cr Halstead.
“Canberra was a very successful trip.
“Canberra listened to the struggle of the Shire being peri-urban.”
Peri-urban is defined as an area bordering built-up suburbs and rural landscapes.
