Adjournment
Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Children, Minister for Disability) (19:13): I move:
That the house do now adjourn.
Kennett River
Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria) (19:13): (2732) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Rural and Regional Development, and the action I seek is an update on the benefits for the Kennett River community and the Great Ocean Road visitor economy of the improvements to tourism infrastructure at the Kennett River project. The $3.8 million works at Kennett River are largely funded through the Geelong City Deal. The Geelong City Deal is revitalising Geelong and unlocking the potential of the Great Ocean Road visitor economy, with substantial funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth governments. Kennett River is a small coastal community on the Great Ocean Road. It is in a stunning location. It is also a popular stop for visitors travelling between Lorne and Apollo Bay. That brings economic opportunity but puts pressure on local roads, parking, pedestrian safety and public amenities. The improvements to tourism infrastructure at the Kennett River project have been shaped by extensive community engagement and include new and improved public open spaces and landscaping; car park, road and pedestrian path upgrades to improve traffic flow, boost safety and effectively prevent multiple large coaches from parking in the precinct; and a new public toilet building and upgraded wastewater treatment plant as well. Construction is now underway, and I cannot wait to see the difference it will make to Kennett River and the local community.