1. The Leisure Time Centre
This building is owned by the Department of Education. There has been a shared use agreement in existence for many years which permitted both use for
the school and the community. Due to serious water damage the facility was closed for repairs approximately 5 years ago. Despite a number of attempts, to date the repairs have not permitted the premises to be open for use. Both the Education Department and the SCS share costs associated with the building and the joint user agreement was due for renewal in December 2021.
Growing Winch was concerned to ensure the agreement was renewed so that the “community use” would still be available especially as the community continues to grow.
The building has provided multiple uses over the years and is regarded as an important piece of Winchelsea infrastructure. Growing Winch plays an important role in advocating on behalf of the Community to ensure that the interests of our community are not overlooked and issues such as the Leisure Centre are elevated and promoted with the relevant bodies.
This is just one example of the role that Growing Winch and its volunteer members play in the life of your community. We need your participation as we move Winchelsea towards 10000.
2. The Winchelsea Common
Historically occupied by the Gun Club over many years. Approximately 10 years ago it was closed because of serious contamination issues. The land is crown land but was subject to a Committee of Management supervised by Surf Coast Shire. A dispute arose between the Council as C of M , and DELWP as to responsibility for the clean up and
this was protracted. Ultimately the Dept. initiated the restoration of the Common and a clearance was obtained from the EPA in August 2020. Meanwhile amendments were made to the E P Act which altered the responsibilities of land managers post 1/7/2021.
SCS sought to terminate their obligations under the management agreement in 2020. The Minister refused to accept the Shire’s resignation.
Growing Winch wrote to the Shire and the Minister expressing its concerns that despite a clearance by the EPA the Common remained closed. Throughout 2021/22 there were numerous emails , meetings and conversations seeking to advance the opening of the Common between DELPW , SCS and Growing Winch. Earlier this year an agreement was reached that SCS would retain management rights and the Common could be reopened for the Winchelsea community.
The Common is now open with a dedicated off leash area for dogs. Engagement by Growing Winch played an important part in achieving this outcome.