Several projects in Seymour have missed out on funding as the brutal Victorian State Budget for 2023/24 was announced on Tuesday.
Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland had previously outlined her wish-list for Seymour going into the budget, which included upgrades to the facilities at the Seymour Football Netball Club, improvements for Seymour College, and a new site for the CFA.
None of these projects have had their funding confirmed, with the town being largely forgotten across the budget papers.
The only mention of the town of nearly 7000 people was a reference to already existing or completed waste management and sewer developments, as well as a pledge to increase services along the Seymour train line.
Ms Cleeland said it was unfortunately not surprising that regional towns like Seymour were ignored in the budget.
“Time and time again we see this Melbourne-focussed Labor Government show they do not care about regional Victoria,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Inner city LGAs are receiving funding for 20 projects each while they can’t even fund one in Seymour.”
The projects in Seymour, such as funding upgrades to the Seymour Football Netball Club, were deserving of more, Ms Cleeland said.
“Seymour Football Netball Club remains in urgent need of an upgrade, with both the changerooms and function spaces needing improvements from their current, outdated facilities,” Ms Cleeland said.
“It is essential that our sporting infrastructure matches the skills of our country athletes, as well as the dedication of the tireless volunteers that keep clubs running.
“Providing funding to improve these facilities means more participation, more spectators, and a boost for local economies. These clubs really are the lifeblood of our communities and deserve great facilities that are fit for purpose.”
The Seymour CFA was another local group that required upgrades to their facilities and had been advocating for a new site in town to ensure they can continue to serve and protect the community in a timely manner.
“The amazing volunteers at the Seymour CFA have raised the need for a new site in town because of the growth of the region and the difficulties the current location presents – including needing to make three point turns to get the trucks out of the shed and the nightmare of needing to reverse trucks back into the shed,” Ms Cleeland said.
“A new site in town would allow the brigade to build a new facility, eliminate safety issues and smash their target times.”
Ms Cleeland was also disappointed to see Seymour College miss out on funding that would allow the school to complete their rebuild, something that was put forward by The Nationals as part of their election commitments.
“Seymour has a massive catchment area, and the school offers a great range of hands on and technical learning options,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Bringing the tech and art buildings into the 21st century will ensure no matter your passion there are state of the art facilities to learn in.
“The rebuild here at Seymour has been an ongoing process for over a decade, and it was time that this funding was allocated to the school.”
