Mildura Council to vote on plan for riverfront upgrade funds

STAGE two of Mildura’s riverfront precinct could be one step closer to coming to life if council endorses a $10.5 million funding application.

Mildura Council is seeking $10 million from the Federal Government and $500,000 from the Victorian Government to develop stage two of the Mildura riverfront, Village Square Precinct and Powerhouse.

Councillors will also vote on whether to approve a council funding commitment of up to $500,000 to support the $11 million component of the full $29.5 million project.

Economic development councillor Mark Eckel said the government funding was essential in continuing one of Mildura’s “greatest success stories” — its riverfront precinct.

“The riverfront precinct has activated the space like no other project the council has ever taken on,” he said.

“But we really need the state and federal governments to come on board so we can continue to activate the riverfront space and upgrade the tired surrounds.

“Significant upgrades are required and it’s very important for our broader Sunraysia community, especially given the pressure people are under with drought.”

The master plan — originally created in 2013 as part of the Mildura Future Ready campaign — earmarked a Village Square to accommodate a range of uses including dining, event and exhibition space and visitor information services.

Recommendations in a 2018 feasibility assessment suggested a Village Square site would create an “iconic development” with the potential to increase visitor numbers and boost the local economy.

Cr Eckel said the big picture was for the Village Square to unite the Sunraysia community and complement existing amenities.

“I hope it’s a space that will unite community members from across Sunraysia and offer a positive, inclusive environment to spent time away from demanding pressures,” he said.

The council also anticipate bringing the Powerhouse building on Hugh King Drive back to its former condition if funding is allocated, with hopes set on it becoming a tourist hotspot.

Powerhouse user groups were forced to relocate from the building earlier in the year due to $315,000 of damage and consequent safety risks caused by extensive white ant infestations.

The recommendation was to refurbish and repurpose the Powerhouse building.

“A whisky distillery and chocolate factory are some of the many suggestions and visions for the space, but it will all be determined by which investors come forward and express interest,” Cr Eckel said.

The council — along with key stakeholder VicTrack — has successfully applied to the state’s planning authority for funds to be able to implement stage two into the planning scheme.

If $10.5 million is granted, the council expects the project will create local employment opportunities, a greater connection to the riverfront, boost property values and enhance the area’s overall safety.