Funding news welcomed
COUNCIL has welcomed a couple of recent funding announcements from the state government, including $500,000 towards a Swan Hill regional soccer hub at Ken Harrison Recreation Reserve, providing the construction of a new pavilion.
It will include four unisex change rooms, two unisex umpire facilities, Disability Discrimination Act compliant accessible toilet, social space, first aid and storage.
The new facility will meet the growing interest and future demands of the Swan Hill Soccer League, as well as assist with their recovery from the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Our soccer community will also now be provided with a facility suitable to their needs.
The facility is expected be completed by the end of 2021.
Council also received $80,000 for a new off-leash dog park at Swan Hill’s Barry Steggall Park.
Draft plans for the off-leash dog park are now being prepared to go out for community consultation.
The community will be able to have their say on the fenced off-leash park masterplan, and what is important to them for stage one of the project.
The project is expected to be completed by the middle of next year.
Border bubble extended
THERE was some good news last week with the Deputy Premier of New South Wales John Barilaro announcing the extension of the border zone, otherwise known as the border bubble, to 50 kilometres.
This follows on from the announcement of a 100km exemption for agricultural workers.
These extensions will certainly make life a lot easier for many in our community who need to regularly cross the Victorian/New South Wales border and have been struggling with the current restrictions.
The new 50km border zone was announced last Tuesday, with permits expected to be available this week.
For farmers and critical agriculture workers, they must have a new highly specialised critical services agriculture permit.
This allows Victorian farmers and critical agriculture workers to enter New South Wales for work that is within 100km of the border, as long as they comply with conditions.
For more information and to apply for a permit, visit www.service.nsw.gov.au.
Drought help
FARMERS, farm workers, farm suppliers and farm contractors can now apply for a $3000 grant through the Australian Government’s Drought Community Support Initiative.
To be eligible, applicants must be 18 years old or older, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, living and/or working in an eligible local government area and financially impacted by the drought.
The benefit is limited to one per household up to a maximum cash payment of $3000.
Applicants can call 1300 846 643 or apply directly online at www.vinnies.org.au/droughthelp.
Council’s economic development team is also available for anyone requiring more information or assistance regarding the grant.
They can be contacted on 5032 3033.
