Homestead’s new lease on life

THE City of Casey has received a funding boost to undertake a feasibility study into Ercildoune Heritage Homestead in Cranbourne West.
The council will receive a $30,000 grant from the State Government, as part of the second round of Community Support Grants.
Ercildoune Homestead is a heritage property in Cranbourne West that will soon be transferred to the council’s ownership
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich said the property required substantial renovation to make it fit for community usage.
“Specialist reports are required to inform future community use and a matching renovation program for the homestead, and this grant from the government will provide the first step of advice for the City of Casey,” she said.
“These community facilities will be more than just buildings.
“They will serve to strengthen community networks by bringing together people of different backgrounds, ages and abilities and giving them access to a range of local services and programs.”
Deputy Premier Peter Ryan said the grants aimed to boost grassroots community participation, by improving community infrastructure and amenities.
“Our Community Support Grants will provide well-planned, well-designed and well-built facilities to meet high levels of demand and need in metropolitan areas, and would support councils and local communities in high growth areas,” he said.
Local councils and not-for-profit community organisations can apply for Community Support Grants at any time.
Grants guidelines and application forms are available from the Department of Planning and Community Development’s grants website www.dpcd.vic.gov .au/communitysupportgrants.