Thursday, 12 May 2022

Garvoc community hub and Grasmere Primary School

Ms TIERNEY (Western Victoria—Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education)

Incorporated pursuant to order of Council of 7 September 2021:

Recently, I had the great pleasure to officially open the new Garvoc community hub. This wonderful centre was built to replace the old Garvoc hall, which did not meet the modern-day needs of the community.

Garvoc’s new facility is a beautiful modern space, multipurpose, and multigenerational too, in the way it will be used.

It’s been in operation since late last year and is the product of $500 000 from the Andrews Labor government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund, with a significant contribution from Moyne Shire Council towards the total cost of $679 000.

The Garvoc community was led in its quest for a new hall by the late Leo Campbell, whose vison and passion underpinned the construction of the hub.

I was able to share the opening with Leo’s wife, Diane, and his family, and there’s now a water gum planted in Leo’s memory.

I also acknowledge the role of Adam Bellman, current president of the Garvoc Residents Association, who is a truly wonderful advocate for Garvoc.

On another matter, recently I was able to deliver the wonderful news that Grasmere Primary School is to enjoy a $2.6 million upgrade, which will make such a difference to this growing school.

Grasmere Primary is a small school doing fantastic work in a lovely rural setting and with really close links to its community.

How good it was to see principal Abby Madden receiving the news with such excitement, and I have no doubt that this funding not only is well deserved but will be put to great use. It will make a huge difference to students and staff at Grasmere Primary.

I look forward to returning when the upgrade is complete.

Both of these local communities are thriving and I congratulate them for their work.