By Olivia Condous
Moorabool Shire chief executive Derek Madden has called out the federal government for a lack of funding pledged for an indoor pool in Bacchus Marsh.
The Victorian state government pledged $10 million in funding earlier this year and the council has committed $15 million, but more funding is still needed to fully fund the project.
Mr Madden said he thought the pool would have received a federal funding pledge after a funding commitment was made by the Labor party in the previous federal election.
“It can’t happen without a $15 million commitment from the Federal Government,” Mr Madden said.
“[The Labor government] will be hearing from us very soon after to reiterate our need
for this funding.”
Mr Madden highlighted that another council area in Melbourne’s east had received a $15 million funding pledge for a second indoor pool, while Bacchus Marsh had missed out.
“The project is so important for our community,” Mr Madden said.
“It’s time for the Feds to come to the party.”
Recently elected Hawke MP Sam Rae said he was supportive of the Bacchus Marsh pool.
“Living up the road in Ballan, I want my kids to learn to swim right here in our community,
“I’ll continue to work with council, the Victorian Government and the Albanese Labor Government to advocate for our pool.”
