Visiting the three halls on Saturday, Western Victoria MP and Victorian Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford joined representatives from Pyrenees Shire Council to announce funding for community halls in Raglan, Redbank and Barkly.

Each of the townships has just one community facility and residents rely on these facilities to support social and business activities that underpin daily life.

Upgrades at the three sites will enable increased use of the halls, generate economic opportunities and support local jobs.

Barkly Hall will receive a new roof and upgrades to the kitchen and ceiling.

Raglan Hall’s walls will be resealed and painted, and the windows, verandah and foundations will be upgraded.

Redbank Hall will be painted inside and out, the access ramp will be upgraded and new flooring and air conditioning will be installed.

Ms Pulford said she the upgrades were supported through the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.

“We’re proud to support these important upgrades, which will build resilience and pride in these communities,” she said. 

“Community halls are at the heart of small towns like Raglan, Barkly and Redbank, and this investment will make them more accessible, comfortable and usable for locals.

“We’re getting it done, listening and delivering for communities in the Pyrenees region.”

The upgrades will enable a broader use of the community facilities, including the potential to hire out the spaces for weddings and other events, which will provide an income stream that will support the halls’ sustainability.

An estimated 45 groups will use the upgraded facilities and an increased number of people will be able to enjoy the facilities, thanks to improvements to venue capacity and accessibility.

The works will include efficient water and waste facilities, and provide opportunities for local workers to attain skills in the installation of amenities and upgrades.