THE Coalition’s first election campaign funding pledge for Mallee has been made in Boort.
Sitting Nationals’ MP Anne Webster last Wednesday committed a Coalition government to $950,000 for the Little Lake Boort precinct development.
A federal election is due by May and latest opinion polls are predicting a hung parliament or a change of government.
Dr Webster said she hoped the Little Lake Boort commitment would be where a “Coalition government will be able to look back ... as where Mallee’s funding drought turned around”.
Loddon Shire’s Boort ward councillor David Weaver said the precinct project when finished would enhance Little Lake Boort and expand engagement with residents and visitors.
“The Coalition’s commitment is welcomed and the shire will continue its advocacy of the project to all political parties and candidates and seek similar backing to make sure we advance this important project,” Cr Weaver said.
“I am absolutely thrilled to back the Boort community in improving the appeal and connectivity of the tennis club, bowls club, historic park, croquet club and swimming pool,” Dr Webster said.
“I am announcing $950,000 if a Dutton-Littleproud Coalition Government is elected this upcoming election, to activate and reconnect the parklands at Little Lake Boort with community facilities.”
The Loddon Shire project has an estimated total cost of $1.4 million for the Little Lake Boort foreshore precinct, with the project masterplan including a skate park, 3-on-3 basketball court, picnic areas, seating and shade areas. A new eastern entrance and water play features will feature at the swimming pool.
Two synthetic courts and new fencing will be part of the tennis club upgrade while storage and toilet facilities are part of plans for the croquet club.
“I can only make this funding a reality if the Coalition wins the upcoming election. “The Albanese Labor Government has reduced spending in Mallee by a factor of 20 to 1 compared to my first term in office under a Coalition government,” Dr Webster said.
“My hope is that Little Lake Boort will be the beginning of Mallee getting back its fair share of federal spending.”