A revitalised open space will be available for the community of Diggers Rest, the site of the first powered flight in Australia in 1910, thanks to an $800,000 funding allocation through the Growing Suburbs Fund and the City of Melton.

The funding for the Stan Payne Reserve Play Space was today announced by Member for Sunbury, Mr Josh Bull, representing the Minister for Local Government, the Hon Marlene Kairouz.

The project represents a $400,000 investment through the 2018-19 Growing Suburbs Fund, which is matched by a contribution of $400,000 from the City of Melton.

Mr Bull said the project will deliver natural and artificial shade, upgraded shelter and toilet facilities, improved pedestrian connections, landscape works and plantings as well as upgrade and installation of historical local art.

Construction is expected to commence in September 2019 and be completed in May 2020.

The Growing Suburbs Fund supports the creation of community connections, enhanced services, and provides greater opportunities at the local level.

The City of Melton has been the recipient of more than $23.8 million for 24 projects since 2015.

More information on the Growing Suburbs Fund is available at: https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants/growing-suburbs-fund

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Marlene Kairouz

“The Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund provides important community facilities and is delivering results for local communities”

“The Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund is helping fast-growing communities like those in the City of Melton continue to thrive and succeed, underpinned by crucial community infrastructure.

Quotes attributable to Member for Sunbury, Josh Bull 

“It’s great to see the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund delivering projects like the Stan Payne Reserve Play Space.”

“Diggers Rest will experience substantial growth in the next 20 years and it is important that we keep pace with this development by providing these important community places.”