1 July 2010
More Sugarloaf Community Projects Underway in the Yarra Valley
Almost half of the projects in the Yarra Valley being supported by the Sugarloaf Regional Benefits Program have been completed or are now underway.
In the Yarra Valley area, 10 community-based projects totalling $2 million dollars are being supported by the grants, out of a total 31 projects along the Sugarloaf Pipeline alignment.
The Yarra Glen Girl Guides and the Yarra Glen & District Historical Society have already completed their projects, only six months since receiving their slice of the $5 million Regional Benefits grants.
Helen Mann from the Yarra Glen & District Historical Society said funding from the Regional Benefits program had been integral for recording the area's past.
"Yarra Glen and District is rich with history and it's very important that it's properly recorded and preserved for future generations," said Mrs Mann.
"The grant from the Regional Benefits Program has enabled us to purchase equipment to copy, record, store and present local history which will help us to capture the story of the Yarra Glen community."
Melbourne Water Project Director, Rod Clifford, said that it was great to see the funds from the Sugarloaf Pipeline Regional Benefits program making a difference to the district.
"We're really pleased to see everyone working together to improve local assets that will strengthen communities in the area," said Mr Clifford.
"Melbourne Water is working with groups to get the remaining agreements finalised so all of the projects can be finished as soon as possible."
Almost $1 million of the $5 million Regional Benefits grants has been spent so far by community groups along the 70 kilometre Sugarloaf Pipeline alignment, in the Yarra Ranges and Murrindindi areas.
The two Regional Benefits projects that are currently being delivered are:
- Facilities upgrades for the Yarra Glen Football and Netball Club and Yarra Glen Junior Football ($350,000)
- Advertising and running costs for Yarra Ranges Regional Marketing Ltd ($124,000)
The Sugarloaf Regional Benefits Program was established by Melbourne Water in 2009 to assist communities inconvenienced by the construction of the Sugarloaf Pipeline and to leave a positive legacy.
Media Contact: Anushia Sivanesan +613 9235 7152 +61 (0)432 795 337