$2m centre gets go-ahead

BASKETBALL and netball enthusiasts will soon be able to shoot hoops at a new community centre in Bunyip.
Civic leaders unanimously accepted a tender for the multi-purpose centre, which will cost close to $2 million.
Cardinia Shire mayor Bill Pearson said the auditorium/stadium would be an asset to the Bunyip community.
“It will be the first new community building in Bunyip for 25 years,” he said.
“It will be a wonderful thing for young people in Bunyip Ward – from Longwarry in the Baw Baw Shire to Nar Nar Goon.”
The existing multi-purpose centre at Bunyip Reserve will be demolished to make way for the auditorium, which will feature a basketball and netball court, storeroom, meeting rooms, amenities, kitchen and additional showers.
Councillor Ed Chatwin said parents living in the area would no longer have to travel to Warragul for their children to play basketball, floor ball and other sports.
Cr Stuart Hallligan said the new centre also would take pressure off YMCA Cardinia LiFE.
“It will give great relief to families,” he said.
The council has accepted a $1,717,110 (excl GST) tender for the project from JR Pryor Pty Ltd, a company that has built several projects for Casey Council, including pavilions and a children’s centre.
The council has budgeted $1.95 million for the long-awaited project.
The Federal Government will put $400,000 towards its construction, while council and community funding has also been secured. Work is ewxpected to start by September 1.