The WINCH project (Winchelsea Integrated Neighbourhoold Community Hub) is well under way, with a deadline of August 2011 for completion. Comprising a new building in place of the existing clubrooms at the Eastern Reserve, facilities will include change rooms, toilets, storage rooms, a gymnasium, general-purpose room big enough to seat 250 people, and a commercial kitchen. The Shire is currently asking ALL community groups to pass on details of what they would like to see built into the WINCH - but time is tight, so responses need to be received in September.

Surf Coast Council has formed a "Project Control Group" (PCG) to manage the WINCH construction. Federal requirements are that the new building be open for use by the end of August 2011 which means the project needs to be fast-tracked and compressed as much as possible within the regulations and rules that apply to local government.

The PCG has already made a good start with completed soil tests, awarding of the architect tender, community forums and consultation, and more. Winchelsea groups that would like to make use of the WINCH are urged to complete a survey detailing their needs and how often they'll use it. Contact the Surf Coast Shire on 03 5261 0600 to request a survey form.

The high-speed project is a result of federal funding to $2 million, with the Surf Coast Shire contributing an additional $400,000 and also managing the project. The Winchelsea Community (principally the Eastern Reserve Committee of Management but also various sporting and community groups) need to contribute $100,000.

The WINCH is the result of a 15-year campaign by Winchelsea residents. A Master Plan was developed and adopted by Surf Coast Council in 2007. Since then reshaping of the oval, new fencing, recycled watering systems, and state-of-the-art netball courts have been put in.

The $2 million federal grant was obtained with the help of MP Darren Cheeseman for general-purpose community facilities - not just for the major sporting clubs, all community groups are being encouraged to get involved and make use of the space. Unanimous council support was given to this project at the start of 2010 when the grant application was submitted.
Concept plan stage so far. $400k council, $100k winchelsea community (festival, sports clubs, general).

Any questions or comments regarding the WINCH, contact Peter Bromley  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it