$15m Liberal hand-out promises library, heritage centre upgrade

Kim Waters
A LIBERAL government would give Geelong $15 million for a library and heritage centre upgrade, the opposition’s deputy leader announced on Wednesday.
Julie Bishop joined Liberal candidates Sarah Henderson and Don Gibson at the library to unveil the pre-election commitment.
The former education minister said she was “very pleased” to announce the promise.
“Today’s announcement goes very much to the passion I have,” Ms Bishop said.
“Its not only very dear to the hearts of Don Gibson and Sarah Henderson but also to everyone who lives in the vicinity and to me.”
Ms Bishop said the new library and heritage centre would house “fundamental” memorabilia and historical records.
“They will enrich our understanding of where we come from, where we are going and where we are.”
Ms Henderson, who is vying for the marginal Labor-held seat of Corangamite, said the proposed library was five times larger than the existing facility.
The proposal included “improved” group learning areas, a lecture theatre, a children’s “exploration and discovery zone” and an upgraded information technology hub with more than 80 internet terminals.
“It’s fair to say some parts of the Geelong city centre are run down and crying out for much-needed investment,” Ms Henderson said.
She committed a Liberal government to delivering the funding over three financial years starting in 2012/2013.
Geelong Mayor John Mitchell said council would provide $20 million for the project.
“This really is a great day for Geelong,” he said.