Broadford could be home to a new BMX and mountain bike facility if Mitchell Shire Council’s submission to the State Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, LSIF, is successful.
At its December meeting, council voted to submit two applications under the Sport and Recreation Victoria, SRV, LSIF – one for the BMX and mountain bike facility strategy and a second for upgrades Seymour’s Graham Street playground.
Council will apply for $225,000 from the LSIF fund for the Graham Street play space upgrades while contributing $75,000 from its funds to complete the $300,000 upgrade.
An application for $37,500 will be made for the $50,000 BMX and mountain bike facility strategy with council contributing the remaining $12,500.
Cr Rhonda Sanderson said both applications were for two ‘really good projects’.
“It’s great this program is available for us to apply for some funds,” she said.
“Every bit of external funding that we get means we can then use the cash we may have in our budgets to redirect towards other things to save the ratepayers.
“We know that there’s strong community interest especially in Kilmore around [BMX riding] and there is a lack of opportunities to undertake this interest there.”
Cr Fiona Stevens said upgrades to the playground were also needed.
“For those unfamiliar with this particular park, it’s a little pocket park and it’s in an older part of Seymour,” she said.
“It’s quite well used but it’s very basic. So an upgrade is very well needed and it will certainly be appreciated by those that live in the immediate vicinity particularly with smaller kids.”
Cr Stevens also noted the BMX facility would cater to other interests.
“It’s not going to be limited to BMX and mountain bikes. It’s actually going to look at pump tracks and skate park facilities,” she said.
“We’re aware of the mountain bike and BMX desire out there but we’re also aware of the desire for pump tracks and the skateparks so that will be included as well.”
Announcements of successful applicants are expected from April and projects must be completed within 24 months of signing the funding agreement.
