A MILLION-DOLLAR makeover for Kerang’s shopping centre has enhanced its appeal as a communal gathering place.
The ambitious revitalisation project in the centre of the Victoria Street business precinct has created a pleasant area for people to meet and to go shopping, the Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh said before joining the mayor, Brian Gibson in unveiling a plaque to mark the completion of the project.
Mr Walsh said that it was appropriate that Aboriginal elder, Uncle Ron Murray had provided a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony
“We all need to walk across the land; to protect the land,” he said.
“It’s an ideal gathering place, for that’s what people do; we gather to meet and celebrate.”
Mr Walsh deputised for Member for Northern Victoria Province, Mark Gebb, who was hospitalised the previous day.
He sent a message congratulating Gannawarra Shire Council for its initiative and the community for its support of the project.
“It will make a positive impact and change the way people interact,” he said.
“It makes a vibrant civic heart and I congratulate council for working with businesses and the community to deliver the project.”
Cr Gibson commended the shire workforce for its efforts in completing the project despite a few challenges that had extended the duration of the works.
“I am proud of the success of what we’ve done and proud of the job done by the shire depot staff, project manager and engineers.
“They had a passion to make it work,” he said.
Cr Gibson said that green grass, trees and shade had helped the area become “more than vibrant.”
“It’s a communal area, a vibrant space that hopefully will help provide viability for businesses.
“This is a beautiful town and a beautiful shire.”
