The Nationals WA have welcomed Federal Government funding of $4.7 million towards a swimming pool and other sport and recreation facilities in Toodyay.
Upper house member Martin Aldridge and Member for Moore Shane Love said the funding boost was a fantastic outcome for the Toodyay community.
“Toodyay Shire had identified construction of a public swimming pool and improved sporting facilities as a priority for the growing community,” Mr Love said.
“A 25m pool and sport and recreation precinct was committed to by The Nationals pre-election and we welcome the Federal Government’s support of this much-needed project.
Toodyay will receive funding to develop an aquatic centre and rectangular playing field as part of stage 1 and 2 of the project, to be funded under the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
Research has shown aquatic facilities offer enormous social and health benefits to communities that have access to them.
However, Mr Aldridge and Mr Love said the full realisation of the project was now contingent on the State Government stepping up and committing funds to ensure its success.
“The Federal Government has contributed. It is only fair the McGowan State Government chips in a matching share,” Mr Love said.
Mr Aldridge said a State contribution would ensure Toodyay was able to fully implement its sport and recreation precinct plans rather than staging them over a number of years as funding is made available.
Mr Aldridge said former Sport and Recreation Minister and Nationals MP Terry ‘Tuck’ Waldron as Chair of Regional Development Australia Wheatbelt should be recognised for his contribution to this funding success.
“Tuck has had firsthand experience with the Shire of project having visited the site and been involved with early funding to develop the site for the new precinct,” Mr Aldridge said.
“The project will provide short term economic opportunities during the construction phase and generational social and health benefits from the project’s completion.
“The Shire of Toodyay and local residents should be applauded for their patience and persistence as the project finally becomes a reality.”
Pictured: The Nationals WA team and community supporting the Toodyay swimming pool;
the Royalties for Regions funded the early works of the project, including the site preparation and related earthworks.
