Derwent Valley Council last week discussed a proposal to obtaining a grant from the National Stronger Regions Fund, a Federal Government funding pool that is allocated for infrastructure in regional communities. The fund requires that the amount asked for be matched dollar for dollar. During this discussion under point 10.5 of the Council’s own agenda, the money would be used for
“restoration of Frascati House, with inclusion of a high quality conferencing facility, museum including nursing memorabilia, possible re-location of the Historic Information Centre (following consultation with the committee) and future tea room with the capability to be used to train students from the High School (in particular) in basic hospitality skills.”
It was debated that the Council put forward half a million dollars of rate payers funds to obtain the grant. Some Councillors didn’t want to use rate payers funds for this purpose and the matter was debated then approved.
The Derwent Valley Council is looking to sell off land on the flood plains behind the new Woolworths Supermarket Complex and it is believed that this would/could reimburse the rate payer funds or add to them. There wasn’t a valuation mentioned during the meeting to know if this would in fact cover the cost to the rate payers of the Derwent Valley. The proposed use for the grant is different than stated in the Council’s very own McDonald Report, which is believed to have cost about $70,000.
One of the criteria for this grant is that it must provide ongoing economic benefit for the community and address disadvantage, collaboration is looked upon favourably. With this and the need for a fully costed heritage works plan and fully costed ‘fit out’ in mind it is suggested that the Oatlands Heritage Centre 5 x 5 x 5 project be contacted to prepare those costings for that project.
It is also believed that there is a possibility that the contractor will conclude present site works at Willow Court and the key will be handed over to the Derwent Valley Council. Mayor Martyn Evans also cautioned that dates have been announced and, have past before, without the end in sight. If it is the case then the Derwent Valley Council will take full control of the site and it’s management at the end of June.