Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant today represented Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney at St Leonards Memorial Hall to announce the commencement of works to upgrade the main flooring of the venue. This upgrade is being supported by $113,000 in funding through Regional Development Victoria.
The project will replace the main flooring of the nearly 100-year-old hall, including the repair of sub-floor framing, bearers and joists, stumps and footings – making it safer for community groups to continue using the hall and expand the activities that can take place there.
The St Leonards Memorial Hall is the only locally available space for community activities but the condition of the floor limits how it can be safely used.
A new, even and level floor will mean community members can use the hall for dance classes, carpet bowls, pre-school and after school programs for children – and many more activities.
It will also encourage new business activities – with the potential for Pilates and yoga classes, market stalls, art shows and classes, while allowing the hall to be hired for weddings, parties and community activities. Works to replace the flooring are to begin in late June and will use local carpenters and sub-contractors.
Since 2014, a record $45 billion has been invested in projects and programs specifically designed to support our regional and rural Victorian cities and towns to be even better places to live, work and visit.
These investments mean more locals have jobs close to home, more communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive, and more visitors can experience everything our regions offer.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
"The upgrades to St Leonards Memorial Hall will provide a safer and more accessible space for community activities, as well as opportunities for local businesses."
"This investment shows we're supporting the projects that are at the heart of our regional communities and creating local jobs in the process."
Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
“The St Leonards Memorial Hall has a longstanding history and special place in the community. The Victorian Government is proud to help restore this much-loved facility so that it can continue to be used as a place of connection for the community.”
“I look forward to seeing the hall put to good use once works are complete.”
