Proud.

That’s the best way to describe the Tambo Crossing community at the official opening of their new multi-purpose facility last Friday afternoon.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Mark Reeves, who joined more than 50 community members from the Tambo Crossing community to mark the occasion, said there was an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment.

“The community was beaming with pride on the completion of their project, and rightfully so. The community has been both persistent and tenacious and the rewards are now evident. The community has a facility – a meeting place – that will serve them well for years to come,” Cr Reeves said.

The facility includes purpose-built, multi-use, accessible facility that will be a place for the community, emergency services, industry groups, and service clubs to come together and deliver services to support community connections.

It will house emergency vehicle and equipment, and has a meeting room, kitchen, full amenities, and backup batteries and generator.

“The community identified the need for a meeting place back in 2006-2007, and after the last fires the Tambo Crossing Community Association, working with funding agencies and Council, was able to progress the concept,” Cr Reeves said.

“The new facility is a reflection of the community’s hard work in promoting and developing the idea and highlights the importance of having a ‘hub’ for people to meet, connect and support each other,” Cr Reeves said.

“As a Council we found a way to ensure the community received a fit-for-purpose facility. We are also proud of our involvement in seeing the project get off the ground, and to deliver the build with our in-house team.

“The opening served as great occasion to celebrate Tambo Crossing and district volunteers during National Volunteer Week, and to hear first-hand on the day about how important the facility is for their community. Well done to all involved.”

The project was jointly funded -about $426,000 - by the federal and state governments through the Local Economic Recovery Program.

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