Four remote community halls have received funding for upgrades with The Gippsland Community Foundations support.
The Gippsland Community Foundation has announced funding of $100,000 towards critical upgrades for four community halls across far East Gippsland.
This funding comes from the East Gippsland Community Bushfire Disaster Relief Fund, which was established through generous public donations following the devastating Black Summer Bushfires of 2019/2020.
The fund has been pivotal in addressing long-term recovery needs for fire- impacted communities in the region.
The communities of Goongerah, Tubbut, Bonang and Bendoc will have the funds distributed accordingly towards the upgrades of the town halls and facilities.
The upgrades will provide much-needed improvements to these vital community spaces, ensuring they remain safe, functional and accessible for local residents.
These facilities play a crucial role as community gathering points during emergencies and everyday activities.
They are essential gathering points in the community during time of crisis, as well as important spaces for community connection.
The project is being supported by additional co-funding in a partnership approach, with East Gippsland Shire Council providing funding to facilitate project management, utilising Warm Corners Consulting. East Gippsland Shire Council funding has been obtained from the Victorian Government through Emergency Recovery Victoria and Commonwealth Government, under the Commonwealth-State Category C Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, in response to the 2019-2020 Eastern Victorian Bushfires.
Additional funding has also been received from the Regional Development Victoria Tidy Towns grant funding.
“We are proud to support the restoration and improvement of these community facilities,” Gippsland Community Foundation executive officer, Michelle Dowsett said.
“After the Black Summer Bushfires, it has been critical to invest in infrastructure that enhances our community spaces, but also strengthens their role as resilience centres.
“This investment will build increased community resilience and encourages strong community connections, all while ensuring we support communities to achieve their own regional self-determined needs. The role of the Errinundra to Snowy Community Recovery Committee in supporting this project was paramount to ensure this funding went where it was needed in the region.”
The planned improvements include:
– Tubbut Hall: Installation of a fire protection sprinkler system, essential re-stumping works, and the addition of an EV charger, making it the first EV-accessible stop on the scenic McKillops Road.
– Goongerah Hall: Completion of a verandah extension, improving outdoor space accessibility and safety.
– Bonang Hall: Bathroom block upgrades, including shower facilities and essential amenities to enhance usability for community gatherings.
– Bendoc Hall: Connection of power to the GreenShed, enabling greater functionality of this shared space.
The Gippsland Community Foundation remains committed to supporting East Gippsland communities on their long-term recovery journey.
For more information, visit the Gippsland Community Foundation website.
