Tuesday, 5 April 2022

Ministers statements: Coburg infrastructure projects

Mr LEANE (Eastern Metropolitan—Minister for Local Government, Minister for Suburban Development, Minister for Veterans) (11:51): Today I would like to update the house on the new accessibility upgrades to the Coburg Library. Last week I joined the member for Pascoe Vale, Lizzie Blandthorn—a great advocate for her area—the Moreland City Council mayor and the CEO to check out the upgrades to the library and meet with library staff.

Mr Finn interjected.

Mr LEANE: We are all excited about libraries, Mr Finn. Coburg Library received over $80 000 from the Living Libraries infrastructure program to do these works. These upgrades make significant changes to the accessibility of the library. The team at the library were able to level the floor so people in wheelchairs and with mobility issues can access new community rooms, complete with sewing stations and 3D printers for groups and also schools to come and use. They were also able to install an accessible toilet and baby change facilities for mums and dads accessing the library for great programs like story time and other great programs. Previously these facilities were not up to scratch. I spoke to a few mothers there that were very pleased with these changes.

Lizzie and I were able to have a sneak peek at the mural works the council has done through the COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Fund. The new courtyard near Coburg station—the new station is magnificent—was officially opened to the public on Saturday, with a smoking ceremony, live music hosted by Schoolhouse Studios and activities for kids. It was great to meet the artist, Tom Civil, who has done a lot of work through Melbourne actually. It is magnificent work, and it was great to meet him and check out the magnificent mural that he did in the shadows of the level crossing removal and the fantastic new Coburg station. It is wonderful. If anyone gets a chance to see it, go and have a look.