$1M in drought-relief projects earmarked for the Millewa

Published on 14 February 2020

Three projects that will boost the local economy and wellbeing of residents are planned as part of drought-relief efforts in the Millewa-Carwarp area.

Mildura Rural City Council is proposing to upgrade the Millewa Resource Centre, improve amenities on the Lake Cullulleraine foreshore and make major upgrades at the Lake Cullulleraine Community Complex – including construction of a second netball court.

Council received $1 million through the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program last year, which has been held in a Drought Community Reserve since October last year. Councillors will vote to officially allocate this funding to the three Millewa projects at this month's Ordinary Council Meeting.

CEO Sarah Philpott said Millewa residents had been invited to help determine how and where the $1 million be invested.

“We worked with the community and other stakeholders to come up with a shortlist of 11 potential projects that would fit the funding criteria, and importantly, make a difference to the economy and wellbeing of those who have been impacted by ongoing drought conditions,” Ms Philpott said.

Residents then had a chance to pick their top three project priorities, which will now be considered by Councillors for formal endorsement.

“All up, 142 residents from the Millewa-Carwarp area voted in this process so we are confident the opinions and wishes of the community have been heard,” Ms Philpott said.

Council’s Drought Response Reference Group - which includes industry representatives and people from the Millewa - has also endorsed the three proposed projects.

Subject to approval from Councillors, work on each project will commence immediately, with detailed scope, planning, design and budgeting required. Input from the Millewa community and key user groups is vital and Council is committed to including them throughout this process.

“As well as creating jobs and other opportunities for the Millewa, these projects will benefit the wider regional economy, particularly through tourism and increased access to recreation and sport.”

Details of the three proposed projects are outlined below:

Lake Cullulleraine Foreshore amenities The project will upgrade amenities on the Lake Cullulleraine foreshore for use by both local and visitors. Activities could include new lighting, a permanent stage, upgrade of the playground area, BBQ, camp kitchen facilities and tourist information board. The projects would also see a floating pontoon constructed on the lake. The project has the potential to directly employ local residents by engaging local contractors, as well as stimulate tourism and improve access to facilities.

Estimated Cost: $195,000

Estimated Timeframe: 12-18 Months

Millewa Resource Centre upgrades The project would enhance facilities within the Millewa Resource Centre. The former tennis clubrooms, this building is currently leased to the Millewa-Carwarp Landcare Group. It is also used regularly to host a visiting Council Library service. Upgrades proposed include improved kitchen and toilet facilities and has the potential to directly employ residents by engaging local contractors.

Estimated Cost: $30,000

Estimated Timeframe: 2-3 Months

Cullulleraine Community Complex and Netball Court This project would upgrade and improve the Cullulleraine Community Complex. Improvements could be made to the toilets, football and netball change rooms and other areas. Outside works could include new directional signage, playground shade areas and the addition of a second netball court. This project would improve access to local services and facilities and has the potential to directly employ residents by engaging local contractors.

Estimated Cost: $845,000

Estimated Timeframe: 18-24 Months

ENDS