Sebastopol’s transformation will begin with upgrades to the Ballarat suburb’s streetscapes and new and better open green spaces, with the Victorian Government confirming the first three Spotlight on Sebastopol projects.

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle today announced the three projects that will form the first stage of the revitalisation, thanks to a $5 million investment committed at the 2018 election.

The announcement comes after detailed community consultation, which included the establishment of a local community reference group that has helped lead the projects design and guide investment priorities.

The first of the three projects is Connecting Sebastopol, which seeks to build community leadership and capacity through new communication channels including a newsletter, a community association and an online portal.

This element of the revitalisation will be delivered by the local neighbourhood house.

The second project is titled Urban Forest Implementation, in recognition that Sebastopol has limited green space which makes it vulnerable to the impacts of rising temperatures.

Approximately 4,400 vacant tree sites have been identified in Sebastopol, providing an opportunity for a tree-planting project that would increase the green space and support the City of Ballarat’s target of 40 per cent canopy cover across the municipality by 2040.

The third project will upgrade connections to the Yarrowee Trail, including improvements to the trail head at Dowcra Street, developing a welcoming gateway to enable locals and visitors to make the most of the natural environment.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas

“I’m proud to announce the three projects that will come to life as part of the Victorian Government’s major investment in the Sebastopol community.”

“These projects have been identified by locals and people on the ground - the Victorian Government is listening to communities and delivering to ensure we can make Ballarat an even better place to live, work, visit and invest.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“I am incredibly passionate about this revitalisation and delighted with the outcomes of the extensive community consultation – I have knocked on local’s doors, listening to what matters most to them.”

“Sebastopol is a vibrant community and this revitalisation will help to put the spotlight back on this proud neighbourhood.”