The Gannawarra's transformational cash bonanza continues

Published on 18 November 2021

Kerang and Murrabit residents will benefit from improved facilities thanks to funding provided from the third round of the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Gannawarra Shire Council has been awarded a further grant of $2.636 million, which will allow the full completion of all six stages of the Murrabit Stormwater Project and the final stage of the Kerang CBD Redevelopment.

“This Federal Government funding has been a cash bonanza, with Gannawarra receiving a total allocation of $5.108 million from this funding program,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“Grant monies previously received are funding the current Kerang CBD Redevelopment Stage 2 works along with the first 4 stages of the Murrabit Stormwater Project. Securing another $400,000 will now allow Stages 5 and 6 of the Murrabit Stormwater Project to be fully completed which future proofs the Murrabit stormwater system.”  

“Murrabit residents and visitors are already seeing the benefits from these works, which is reducing the risks associated with arbovirus and enabling the capture and future use of reusable water,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

A total of $2.236 million has been secured for Stage 3 of the Kerang CBD Redevelopment, which will upgrade street furniture and pavements from Victoria Street leading into Wellington Street.

“Inspired by the work undertaken during the development of the Kerang CBD Master Plan, these works will build on the redevelopment of the award-winning Victoria Square and complement works currently underway along the Scoresby Street section of the Kerang central business district,” Mayor Gillingham said.

“Council looks forward to working with the community in 2022 to progress the redevelopment’s plans, which will explore new ways residents and visitors can interact within the town.”

“With over 400 jobs on the local horizon, the Gannawarra is undergoing a significant transformation. This redevelopment ensures Gannawarra’s streetscapes are modern, vibrant and support the changing retail sector, building for the future and bringing more people into the heart of Kerang,” Mr O’Reilly said.

Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster said that she was pleased to see this funding secured for the Gannawarra.

“This funding will support local jobs and will provide much needed funding for local infrastructure. Gannawarra and Kerang are a a great place live, work and visit, and this funding will keep the region on the front foot in this regard,” Dr Webster said.

“The street furniture and pavement upgrades will be a great space for people to be out and about, to interact, relax and enjoy the community that they live in. Those visiting the region will also benefit greatly from the upgrades and modern infrastructure.”

“Council thanks the Federal Government, and in particular Anne Webster, Federal Member for Mallee, for securing this funding and looks forward to working with the Kerang and Murrabit communities in implementing these projects,” Mr O’Reilly said.