06 Dec 2016 North Central Review (Kilmore), Melbourne (General News) IN a funding boost for the district, Mitchell Shire Council has successfully secured $5.93 million in state government funding for major community upgrades as population in the area grows. The funding comes from the Growing Suburbs Fund and the Growing Areas Infrastructure Contribution to assist councils to build critical local infrastructure for communities in Melbournes diverse and fast-growing outer suburbs. Mitchell Shire Council will receive $3.74 million to help develop the Mandalay Community Centre and $2.19 million for the Wallan Town Centre Heart Public Realm Project. The Mandalay Community Centre will offer maternal and child health, lifelong learning and social connection services, while the Wallan Town Centre project will provide a focal meeting point through the delivery of two linked public spaces. Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes and Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green made the announcement last Tuesday, November 29 alongside Mitchell Shire Council CEO David Turnbull and Mayor, Cr Rhonda Sanderson. Since opening my office in nearby Wallan, I have heard loud and clear from Mandalay and Beveridge residents about the needs of their community and the new Community Centre is exactly what they have been calling for, Ms Symes said. Im proud to be part of a Labor Government that is investing in our growth areas and delivering the vital infrastructure and services for families. The Wallan Town Centre Heart Public Realm Project will provide an attractive focal meeting point for both residents and visitors, boosting business activity and opportunities for new employment. The new Community Centre will be a wonderful local facility for the diverse, growing population at Mandalay, Ms Green added. The local residents have been seeking improved community services in the area and I am delighted the Andrews Labor Government is delivering for the outer north. With Mitchells population estimated to double in the next 15 years, council expect to welcome an extra 12,000 people under the age of 14 and an extra 16,000 households, mostly young families. Cr Sanderson said the funding will help council meet the needs of the community and help take advantage of the opportunities this growth brings. We cant deliver these projects on our own. This sort of funding contribution is vital for healthy, active and connected communities and to support local economic development, Cr Sanderson said. On behalf of the community of Mandalay, Beveridge and Wallan and our new communities in the south who will benefit from this in years to come, we are truly, truly grateful. Always a favourite: (from left) Vanessa, Benjamin and Bethany Davine had plenty of fun with the laughing clowns on Saturday at the annual Kilmore Show. Perfect weather and plenty of attractions made it a popular event in 2016. Turn to page nine for more show pictures. Caption Text: Fine craft: Andrew McGregor a fletcher (arrow maker) had a stall as part of Memory Lane in Community Street that educated show goers on the craft of arrow making. Fun, fun, fun: Emily Beveridge and Charli Taylor were loaded down with goodies. Bunny love: Kilmores Joshua Hanna had fun in the Parklands Farm animal nursery. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.