Member for Northern Victoria opens projects across Murrindindi Shire

MEMBER for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes traversed Murrindindi Shire last Friday, opening completed projects including solar for the Marysville Community Centre, the Eildon Key Worker Housing units, and upgrades to Eildon Primary School. Marysville Community Centre solar Ms Symes first visited Marysville Community Centre in her role as Minister for Energy and Resources to open a new neighbourhood battery and expanded rooftop solar system. The system is designed to store renewable energy for when it’s needed most, bringing down the community centre’s bills and providing backup power to support the local community. At Marysville, the 59-kilowatt battery can store 224 kilowatt-hours of electricity. Combined with the centre’s solar system, it is expected to save around $3762 per year over its estimated 10-year life. “These batteries mean lower bills for community facilities and more reliable power for locals,” Ms Symes said. “Marysville Community Centre brings people together, and spending less on power means more money for the services and activities locals rely on.” Eildon Key Worker Housing Ms Symes officially opened the completed Eildon Key Worker Housing on behalf of Minister for Rural and Regional Development Michaela Settle. The project delivers six new homes ready for workers in healthcare, hospitality and education to move into. Funded through the Regional Workers Accomodation Fund, the six units will help local businesses and essential services attract and retain workers. The homes are the first of 12 being delivered across two sites in Eildon, providing accommodation for up to 33 workers. Built by regional construction company Millbuilt Pty Ltd, the units use modular construction to deliver housing faster and more efficiently. All 12 units are expected to be completed in 2027, providing more housing for workers and easing pressure on Eildon’s rental market. “Labor delivering these 12 new homes means bringing more workers into our community and supporting the local businesses that rely on them,” Ms Symes said. Eildon Primary School upgrades Ms Symes travelled to Eildon Primary School after opening the key worker housing, to officially open the school’s $4.8 million upgrade. The project has delivered a refurbished library and upgraded learning spaces in the community building, including new classrooms for art, science and technology, and performing arts. The school will also benefit from a new building lift, refurbished central stairs and a new entry ramp. Works to Block B building have resulted in new student and staff toilets and a staff kitchenette, and school grounds have been beautified with new landscaping. The modernised facilities mean students can learn and grow in the best possible environment. “Eildon Primary School is an important part of this community, and this $4.8 million upgrade will give local students and staff modern facilities to enjoy for years to come,” Ms Symes said. “From new art and performing arts classrooms to upgraded learning spaces, these improvements will give Eildon students more opportunities to learn, get creative and make the most of their time at school.”