ICONIC MONUMENT SET FOR RESTORATION

Ararat is set to benefit with the restoration of the iconic Ararat Memorial Fountain following the announcement that funding for the project will be provided under the Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects stream. Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan said the project would restore the Ararat Memorial Fountain by repairing damaged and missing surfaces, upgrade the water reticulation system, and add feature lighting.

 “Ararat is steeped in history and culture and this project will not only protect our local heritage but also bring amenity and beautification to the area.  Projects like this bring social and economic benefits, by improving the visitor experience and making the Ararat region a more attractive place to live”, said Mr Tehan.

Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Gwenda Allgood said the fountain restoration is the final piece of the puzzle in the Arts Precinct Redevelopment project.

"Having the fountain restored to its former glory will be the icing on the cake for our magnificent new Town Hall and Art Gallery," Cr Allgood said.

"The fountain is an iconic part of the Ararat civic precinct along Barkly Street, along with the Shire Hall, War Memorial, Library and extensive gardens that are managed by Ararat Rural City.

"One of the most important aspects to this project will be the delivery of a maintenance plan to ensure the required upkeep is scheduled and budgeted for in future years to ensure the fountain remains operational and well presented.

"On behalf of Council I congratulate everyone who has worked on the fountain project to get it to this point, particularly the community members who have been big advocates and Ararat Community Enterprise who threw their support behind the cause very early on."

Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the project will deliver significant economic and social benefits to the community.

“Under round two of the Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects stream, the Coalition Government is investing well over $200 million in 136 projects with a total leveraged project value of $459 million,” Dr McVeigh said.

“This means, in each successful community much anticipated local projects are receiving the funds needed to take a big idea and make it a reality.

“The Coalition has a plan for regional Australia, and we are focused on getting it done. It’s a plan to create more jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities”.

“A further $200 million was announced in the 2018-19 Budget for a third round of the Building Better Regions Fund - a clear indication of the Coalition Government’s commitment to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future.”

The second round of the Building Better Regions Fund, which includes the Community Investments stream and the Infrastructure Projects stream, is expected to create some 10,000 jobs from over 240 projects.