Skatepark and aged-care facility get go ahead

Benefitting young and old, two Central Highlands projects have been given the green light under the latest round of the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

The Ivy Anderson aged-care facility project in Springsure will receive $4.1 million, while the Central Highlands Regional Council will receive $108,500 to construct a new skatepark in the Gemfields.

Mayor Kerry Hayes welcomed the news, saying investment in building stronger regional communities was paramount to the sustainability and future growth of the Central Highlands.

‘It’s funding opportunities like this that allow us to build our economy, create jobs, deliver more efficient services and improve the lifestyle of our communities,’ he said.

‘This is a particularly special announcement for the not-for-profit Ivy Anderson Committee who have worked tirelessly over the past six years to raise and secure funds for an aged-care facility in Springsure. Finally, their hard work and determination has paid off.’

The facility will fill a gap between independent living and the hospital’s long-term aged-care service. It will include nine one-bedroom residential units, a caretaker’s residence, an amenity block and communal areas.

‘The Ivy Anderson Village is about inclusivity, something that is very important to our region,’ Mayor Hayes said.

‘It will provide a safe, affordable housing option that maintains the dignity of our ageing population while giving them the support they need.’

At the other end of our population spectrum, the Gemfields youth will soon be able to enjoy a new skatepark adjacent to the Sapphire aquatic centre.

The skatepark will include seven modular pieces, two shade shelters, a barbecue and seating. Construction should start before Christmas and is due to be complete by March 2022.

These projects both received grant funding from the Australian Government.