We have now released our Proposed Budget 2021/22 for community feedback. The Proposed Budget includes a record Capital Works Program of $35.8 million. As well as providing funding to start construction of the Cowes Cultural and Community Centre, the Proposed Budget includes funding for other important capital projects, including the construction of the Guy Road shared path, a rock revetment wall and improved beach access in Cowes, progression of the Wonthaggi Activity Centre Plan and improvements to the Grantville and Rhyll boat ramps and jetties. We are committed to maintaining services and delivering our infrastructure and new intergenerational projects, that are valued by our community. I strongly encourage our community to provide us with their feedback, to help us deliver an efficient and financially responsible budget for the next 12 months. You can read the Proposed Budget and submit your feedback through our website, at www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/budget. We are also holding an online Q&A session on Wednesday, 5 May from 6.00pm to 7.30pm, on Council’s Facebook page. The submission period closes on Thursday, 20 May at 5.00pm.

The Wonthaggi and District Historical Society’s new extension was officially opened last Wednesday. Located on the site of Wonthaggi’s railway station in Apex Park, the new wing includes administration and storage facilities, an accessible toilet and kitchenette, a new passage with a direct link to the original station building and energy efficient lighting throughout. The Society is such an important group in our town, conserving and promoting our history through education, events and community activities - their incredible volunteers do so much to preserve our town’s heritage. This particular project is dear to me, given my family’s deep connection to Wonthaggi, but also because of my friendship with so many of the dedicated and amazing volunteers of the Wonthaggi and District Historical Society.

Have you seen the new MJ McMahon Motel on the corner of Watt Street and McKenzie Street in Wonthaggi yet? It belongs to the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club and it is absolutely incredible to have this fantastic new accommodation option for the town. I was pleased to attend the official opening of the Motel last week and would like to congratulate the members of the Workmen’s Club, who envisaged this project and then saw it through to completion. What an amazing effort.