New year cash boost

By Melissa Donchi
THE Yarra Valley received a great start to the new school year with more than $844,000 in federal funding for local schools.
McEwen MP Fran Bailey said she was delighted to hear about the funding which will allow local schools to carry out important projects.
“Primary schools in Badger Creek, Chum Creek, Dixons Creek, Don Valley, Gladysdale, Healesville, Millwarra, Warburton, Wesburn, Woori Yallock, Launching Place and Yarra Junction and Healesville High School, will be able to carry out important projects such as building extensions, sportsfield development, shade structure installation and information technology system upgrades,” Ms Bailey said.
Ms Bailey recently paid a visit to Gladysdale Primary School to present a plaque to acknowledge the Australian Government’s grants for a fitness trail, painting of external school buildings, provision of sunshade areas and purchase of a data media projector.
“Investing in Our Schools is designed to help our schools achieve projects which are often high on the list of needs but it is difficult for parents and teachers to fundraise for these amounts,” Ms Bailey said.
Another Federal Government funding recipient was Badger Creek Primary School who were also pleased to learn of their grant of almost $50,000.
“The Badger Creek Primary School community is just delighted to hear that funding of $49,977 has been approved by the Federal Government to buy computers for the school,” Principal Gary Embry said.
“So, not only will this funding provide great computers for students at a better ratio than ever before, it will also free up locally raised funds for the next five years that can be put towards other student needs.
“Teachers, parents and students all say a very big thank you!” he said.