The long-running discussion about the future of the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve pavilion has reached a turning point. At their regular meeting earlier this week, Hepburn Shire Council voted to renovate and renew the existing pavilion, rather than build a brand-new one.

This decision follows months of work by a Project Advisory Group (PAG) made up of user groups and members of the Glenlyon community. The group met four times between April and June this year to examine all the options – from a complete rebuild on a new site to various renovation scenarios – before unanimously recommending the renovation approach.

Mayor Cr Don Henderson praised the group’s effort and community spirit. “The PAG did a significant amount of work exploring renovation options, planning controls and potential sites for new construction. After lengthy discussions, the PAG unanimously recommended renovating the existing pavilion as the preferred option. Thank you to the PAG and the broader Glenlyon community for their active involvement in shaping this important project.”

Following the community’s recommendation, Council engaged consultants to prepare a preliminary scope and cost estimate. The proposed $1.3 million renovation will deliver a modernised and accessible facility while preserving the character of the existing building. Planned works include:

  • Demolition and replacement of the toilet block with a new accessible toilet/shower, storage area and secondary exit
  • New roof, gutters, downpipes and roof insulation
  • Roof extension over the BBQ area
  • Replacement of weatherboards and installation of wall insulation
  • Removal of asbestos-containing internal wall linings
  • New heritage-style windows and servery hatches
  • Refurbished kitchen and upgraded male and female toilets

The project is supported by a $500,000 Federal Government grant, originally earmarked for a new pavilion. Council has requested a variation to the funding agreement to apply the grant to the renovation project instead.

Council will now develop a detailed funding strategy to deliver the project, which remains focused on creating a high-quality, functional and accessible community space for Glenlyon.

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This article is based on a media release from Hepburn Shire Council.