Lillydale Lake was named as a successful recipient of $1.5 million in Federal funding to put towards the masterplan works being explored by Yarra Ranges Council.
The project was one of 26 in Victoria to receive part of the total $129 million funded through the Federal Governments Thriving Suburbs Program.
It was also the second for the Yarra Ranges, with Healesville’s Don Road Pavilion also announced on Thursday 5 December as a successful project.
“We are delighted to receive more than $7.28 million from the Federal Government’s Thriving Suburbs funds for some much-needed community assets in Yarra Ranges,” Mayor Jim Child said.
“These projects are so important to ensure that we are bringing the community together meaning we can continue to provide for that all important social connection across our municipality.”
The excitement of this funding announcement came off the back of Lillydale Lake also receiving a Green Flag Award for 2024-2025.
“These funds will mean we can enhance that even more now for this very popular community asset,” Cr Child said.
The Thriving Suburbs Program aims to build better cities and more liveable suburbs by increasing community cohesion, liveability and accessibility.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the projects awarded funding achieve the aim.
“Today’s (5 December) announcement is a demonstration of how our Government recognises the importance of elevating urban areas, because that is where most Australians live,” she said.
“Whether sports clubs, urban precincts or community hubs, community facilities are the backbone of connected societies – and they’re becoming increasingly important.”
Victorian Senator Lisa Darmanin said these projects would enhance recreation while providing vital hubs for health, wellbeing, and social connection.
“Projects that uplift our cities and suburbs are more important than ever, so I’m proud to see the Australian Government providing this crucial funding for our community,” she said.
“The Thriving Suburbs Program is making transformative local projects like this a reality, and I look forward to the significant benefits it will bring to our community—encouraging active lifestyles and fostering stronger community connections.”
