‘Keep the cash coming’

STATE Government pledges of more than $4 million in a month to local projects have been a funding windfall for Cardinia Shire.
Council hopes the cash keeps on coming.
Chief executive officer Don Welsh said the past couple of weeks had been “exceptional” for Cardinia. Recent announcements include:
•$2.6 million for an upgrade of local bus services;
•$500,000 for a new childcare centre in Pakenham;
•$100,000 to improve safety for motorcyclists around Gembrook;
•$800,000 over four years to improve children’s services.
Mr Welsh said the money pledged for local projects meant the State Government recognised the challenges of the fast-growing Pakenham area.
Council and other groups charged with managing the transformation from rural town to bustling Melbourne suburb faced an enormous task, he said.
Speaking at the recent official opening of the Services Central community centre in Henry Street, Pakenham, Mr Welsh said the new facility would make an important contribution to the wellbeing of Cardinia Shire residents.
He thanked the State Government for its ongoing support and paid tribute to Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato.
“Tammy has been a great supporter of this community,” Mr Welsh said.