By Parker McKenzie
Scout groups in Bayswater now have access to their upgraded hall after improvements were completed last week.
The upgrades were jointly funded by Scouts Victoria and the State Government, which contributed $100,000.
The money was spent replacing the gutters, repairing the roof and brickwork and upgrading windows, the front door, ramp and facilities.
Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor said the State Labor government is helping support and grow Scouts Groups.
“This investment will ensure our Bayswater Scouts have the facilities they need to keep operating well into the future.” he said.
$5.5 million over four years was committed by the Victorian Labor Party to upgrade, build or refurbish 23 Scout Halls across the state at the 2018 election. Scouts Victoria matched the funding for a total investment of $11 million.
Acting Minister for Youth Shaun Leane said the upgrades provide an accessible and safe place for the Scout groups to call home for years to come.
“This investment ensures that Bayswater Scouts have the modern facility they deserve,” he said.
“We’re proud to be helping Scouts groups and supporting them across the state as they continue to grow.”
Scouts Victoria has more than 20,000 young people and 5,000 adult volunteers as members, making it one of the state’s largest youth organisations.
Mr Taylor also announced 11 permanent electronic speed signs will mark the roads in The Basin where a new 40km an hour speed limit has been put in place.
Sections of Mountain Highway, Forest Road and Basin-Olinda Road will receive safety improvements, focused around the suburbs’ shopping strip.
The 40km/h speed limit will be in place between 8am and 6pm every day.
Mr Taylor thanked the community for their patience while the upgrades were being installed.
“These important upgrades will make it safer for all road users around this busy shopping strip, by reminding drivers to slow down and remain aware of their surroundings,” he said.
“These upgrades will help to support The Basin’s continued growth and assist our local economy by improving pedestrian safety and access to our businesses.“
The electronic speed limit signs will also create a 40km/h zone on Mountain Highway for St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School during school hours.
The upgrades are a part of the State and Federal Governments’ $457.57 million Road Safety Program.
