Tuesday, 15 October 2024

 Juliana ADDISON (Wendouree) (12:54): Sebastopol is a proud suburb of Ballarat with a rich history and a strong community. That is why the Allan Labor government is investing to make it an even better place to live. We are delivering a major upgrade to the Marty Busch Reserve, investing $8.4 million towards new sporting and community facilities, and contributing $4.5 million to the new Sebastopol community hub. As a part of our Keep Ballarat Moving roads package we have installed new traffic lights at Hertford and Albert streets and at Docwra Street and Midland Highway. We have supported the establishment of the Yirram Burron Early Learning Centre and delivered a significant upgrade to the Sebastopol South Kindergarten.

We are also transforming Sebastopol with our $5 million Spotlight on Sebastopol program, with 13 ‍local projects thanks to the advocacy of the member for Eureka. Projects include improved access to the Yarrowee Creek, which will allow people to gather and connect, with new pathways, picnic areas and shelters. We have upgraded MR Power park and are growing an urban tree forest after planting more than 1350 trees throughout neighbourhood streets. We have also completed the St Georges lighting upgrades to junior pitches, allowing the junior teams to train at night. Further, works are underway at the Victoria–Albert streets precinct, making it greener, safer and more accessible. The Hertford Street shared path project is progressing too. We have also supported the development of the community garden project, upgraded the Sebastopol RSL hall and enabled the community art project. I am so proud of what we are doing for Sebastopol.