They are two of four projects being pursued by council with unspent funding from round four of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program.
It is anticipated $100,000 would be spent at the stadium and just over $73,000 at the VRA building in Charlotte St, Deniliquin.
Council has also proposed using $40,000 of the funding to refurbish Sexton’s Hut at the Deniliquin Cemetery, and $150,000 to complete electrical and infrastructure upgrades at the Deniliquin Saleyards to support electronic ID for sheep.
Council will now work with the relevant Federal Government departments to revise the work schedule, and discuss any required project timeline extensions.
The diverted funding was originally allocated to refurbish the Edward River Concert Band hall in Poictiers St, but council director infrastructure Mark Dalzell said works have been put on hold while proposals to find a new space for the band continue to be investigated.
“In July 2023, Edward River Council was allocated $963,170 as Part A of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure round 4 funding program,” Mr Dalzell said in a report to council.
“In its meeting held May 12, 2023, council resolved to allocate $600,000 of this funding to the Lighting Deniliquin and Blighty Reserves Project, which is now complete.
“After concerns were raised by the band hall committee around the condition of the building, the remaining amount of $363,170 was allocated to the refurbishment of the hall.
“In June 2024, councillors made the decision to seek alternatives for the band hall, leaving this amount unallocated.”
Mr Dalzell said the stadium, VRA and Sexton’s Hut projects were all identified as future projects in the development of the council’s current operational plan and budget in June last year, but they would only be actioned if funding became available.
He said he is confident they satisfy the eligibility of the LRCI funding, and suggested the saleyards project be added to works schedule to use the remaining funding available.
“Council has recently undertaken a project to install electronic ID scanners and reading equipment at the Deniliquin Saleyards as a requirement by Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure legislation,” Mr Dalzell explained.
“Funding for this project has come through a rebate program, and additional funding from the department.
“The requirement for electrical and infrastructure upgrades at the aged saleyards will place the project spend over the funding received.
“Staff, therefore, recommend that the remaining amount of $150,000 be allocated to complete this project.”
Mr Dalzell said while it was a condition of the funding that all projects be constructed by the end of June this year, he said the grant opportunity does not close until June 2026 and the grant authority may allow for extension of time variations to be approved if requested.
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