Thursday, 18 July 2019

Gippsland Asbestos Related Diseases Support Inc. now has a new home to continue doing their important work supporting Latrobe Valley workers thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today officially opened the new home of GARDS in Moe, following a refurbishment project supported by almost $80,000 from the Andrews Labor Government’s Latrobe Valley Authority Community and Facility Fund.

GARDS has been operating since 1991 to support asbestos sufferers in Gippsland and throughout Victoria, and is the largest asbestos support and advocacy group in the state.

The organisation made the move from its existing premises in Newborough after a rent increase meant the facility was no longer viable for the not-for-profit.

The refurbishment project has created a fit-for-purpose home for employees, volunteers and members, with the new facility providing a stable, long-term home for the organisation and its 200 members.

Upgrades to the building included heating and cooling upgrades, electrical and plumbing works, solar power, new floor and window coverings, computer hardware and software, painting, installation of security doors and a video security system.

Over a dozen local contractors and suppliers were used during the refurbishment project including Latrobe Valley Joinery, Jarrod Ryan Painting, Francis Plumbing & Gas Fitting, Latrobe Valley Shopfitters and Valley Computer Solutions.

The Labor Government has now supported almost 170 community projects through the Latrobe Valley Authority’s Community and Facility Fund. For more information on the Fund visit lva.vic.gov.au.

Quote attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes

“It’s wonderful to see local organisations such as GARDS benefiting from the Community and Facility Fund – giving them a modern, permanent home that will allow them to keep doing their great work supporting the community.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“GARDS is a fantastic organisation that does such vital work supporting the health and wellbeing of our community into the future, and it’s fitting that they have a suitable home to keep providing their services.”

Quote attributable to Latrobe Valley Authority CEO Karen Cain

“This is another fantastic example of how the Community and Facility Fund is helping to make the Latrobe Valley a great place to live and work.”