The $13 million upgrades for Victoria Park are supported by the Federal Government and Campaspe Shire Council, who are looking forward to seeing the project begin.
More than $11.3 million has been committed by the Federal Government for the park’s redevelopment, while council will contribute a further $2 million.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the funding supports regional communities.
“The Albanese Government is committed to investing in regional Australia to create jobs, build opportunity and unlock economic growth and productivity – making sure our regions remain great places to live, work and play,” she said.
“Our Growing Regions Program forms a key part of this commitment, by investing in critical community and economic infrastructure across regional and rural areas, in a fair and transparent way.
“I look forward to seeing the successful projects roll out across the nation, supporting employment, stimulating economies and strengthening communities.”
Campaspe Shire Council active communities manager Kerrie Hawkes said master plans for the site have been in progress for many years, and that the first stage of the project is ready to begin.
“The revised master plan ... it’s been in the making for over a decade,“ she said.
“The current plan is the redevelopment of the sporting precinct, and also the passive, open space which is the scenic trail area.
“The first stage is the multipurpose facility (and) the oval resurfacing is another project that we’re looking at, hopefully at the same time.”
Council have worked alongside key stakeholders in the creation of the master plan, including Echuca Football and Netball Club, Echuca Cricket Club, St. Joseph’s College, CFA, Southern 80 and the Yorta Yorta community.
The football and cricket clubs are working with the council on the timing and options for the oval’s development.
“We're working with both clubs regarding their options for home games and training opportunities,” Ms Hawkes said.
“(It’s) short-term pain for long-term gain. They’ve been very receptive.”
During the project design, the council worked with a design reference group of community representatives.
The group was chosen through an expression of interest process, and included four community representatives.
The community has positively received the plans for Victoria Park, and council looks forward to breaking ground.
“The general feedback has been that everyone's very excited by this build,” Ms Hawke said.
“These are great opportunities, and to see something that's been an idea of the community for over a decade and be able to work with a group of people to bring it to fruition, is very exciting.”
Senator for Victorian Jana Stewart believes the project will provide a boost to the region, particularly as an important meeting place for residents.
“We know that the projects funded through the Growing Regions Program will help bring communities together. Whether it’s a sporting club or a community hub, these places are often the source of connection for people in our regional communities,” she said.
“They are part of what makes our regions so great, and it’s vital we continue to invest in them.
“This will make a real difference for the Echuca community, and I look forward to seeing the benefits flow as works get underway – supporting local jobs and the local economy.”
The council has yet to confirm the project start date but hopes it will begin in the next few months.