Bega's regional gallery, along with squash courts in Pambula and a skate park in Eden are among the big winners of a federal government funding announcement.
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On Friday, June 5, Liberal Senator for NSW Jim Molan and Eden-Monaro byelection candidate Fiona Kotvojs were spruiking the investment of more than $2.5million into the region, with the Bega Valley the major recipient.
The federal government's Building Better Regions Fund confirmed $2,470,363 is going to the Bega Valley Shire Council to put towards its projects in redeveloping the regional art gallery, building the multipurpose indoor squash courts at Pambula, and upgrading the Barclay St skate park for Eden.
There is also $50,000 for the council to research key regional industries of tourism, agribusiness, and health and aged care, to inform community and economic strategies.
Meanwhile the Merimbula Chamber of Commerce has been granted $20,000 to deliver a two-day event showcasing the region, and the Cooma Chamber a further $20,000 to deliver a strategic plan to drive the local business economy.
"These communities have suffered through bushfire, drought, floods and COVID-19; and this investment will help attract great events, deliver new infrastructure and create opportunities for our region," Dr Kotvojs said.
"Our region has always been an amazing place, it helped shape who I am, and this funding will help make it a better place to live, work and a raise a family. Today's announcement will also support local jobs."
The funding for the regional gallery is of particular interest given the redevelopment project recently missed out on state funds in both rounds of Create NSW's Regional Cultural Fund.
BVSC said was not in a position to say too much yet as senior staff and councillors await further details.
However, it's understood the Liberal government commitment comes with the caveat that the council must match the funds granted.
"Council is confident those funds are available, but councillors and senior staff will meet soon to confirm those arrangements," a spokesman said.
In 2019 it was reported the BVSC had applied for $3.4million from the state government for the Bega Valley Regional Gallery, and tenders for the indoor sports centre at Pambula exceeded the allowed budget of $850,000.
Ben Smyth
I have worked as a journalist since 2005 and am now Editor of Australian Community Media mastheads in Bega, Merimbula and Eden
I have worked as a journalist since 2005 and am now Editor of Australian Community Media mastheads in Bega, Merimbula and Eden
