SYKES WELCOMES FUNDS FOR MT BEAUTY CHILDCARE CENTRE

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has praised the Mt Beauty community and Alpine Shire Council for its commitment and vision to attract funding for the construction of a new childcare centre.

At the official launch of the major capital works project today, Dr Sykes said he was pleased to have played a supporting role in securing funding for the important project.

Dr Sykes said as part of the funding arrangement, the State Government will contribute $200,000, Federal Government $127,000 and Alpine Shire $100,000 and $30,000 in-kind support towards the facility.

The Mt Beauty Childcare Steering Committee has also made a significant contribution, raising $30,000.

Dr Sykes supported the committee’s fundraising efforts by donating a dinner for two at Parliament House.

“I welcome Minister Garbutt’s announcement today that the State Government will allocate $200,000 for this facility which is a vital necessity for the growing township,” Dr Sykes said.

“The secret behind the success of this application has been the strong support within the community and council for improved childcare facilities.

“After four years of continuous campaigning, the Mt Beauty community can now look forward to the construction of a modern childcare facility, which will not only provide an excellent service to existing families, but will also assist to attract new residents and investment to the town.”

Dr Sykes praised the efforts of Glenyse Peacock and Lisa Drew for their unrelenting drive to make the community’s vision a reality.

As part of the exciting new development, the childcare centre will link with the existing kindergarten, maternal health centre and toy library, all under the one roof.

The new facility will provide a service for about 180 children under the age of five in the Mt Beauty district.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989