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Myli and the Baw Baw Arts Alliance support proposed Culture and Connection Precinct

Momentum continues to build for the landmark precinct with local library organisation Myli (My Community Library) and the Baw Baw Arts Alliance affirming full support for the proposed $30 million Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct.

By news@gippsland - 11th May 2022 - Back to News

With Baw Baw's population continuing to grow at an extraordinary rate, more local community organisations acknowledge the need for this facility and its benefits to the community. Local library organisation Myli and the Baw Baw Arts Alliance have joined council in advocacy efforts throwing their full support behind the project.

Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Michael Leaney, Myli CEO Leanne Williams and Baw Baw Arts Alliance President Anita George unified in their advocacy for the proposed Culture and Connection Precinct

Diverse library services

Myli CEO Leanne Williams has acknowledged that this project would provide a much-needed investment into accessible and diverse library services to a growing community. The current Warragul library is in a small and ageing building with limited space for popular programs and larger events.

The building design is not well suited to meet accessibility needs for people with disabilities and is non-compliant with current Australian accessibility standards. Amenities are inadequate and inconvenient, with the current accessible bathroom requiring access via the staff back office.

A commercial lease is in place for council to occupy the current library building. This means ongoing costs with little control to make meaningful improvements to the facility. Additionally, the current library building does not meet the expectations of a modern library nor the expectations of new residents moving to the area.

Improved library services

Warragul has a population of 18,500, a forecast of 21,000 by 2026, increasing to 30,000 by 2041. This projected 43 per cent growth means the current library will only continue to decline and fail to accommodate essential services such as a place to study or meet for study groups.

Relocation to a new fit-for-purpose, central and accessible location could improve library membership and service delivery to community members of all ages - from story time for children through to digital literacy classes for seniors. It is expected that a new library would experience considerable growth. Visitation is anticipated to increase at a minimum, by 200,000 - 300,000 per annum.

More opportunities to revitalise

The Baw Baw Arts Alliance (BBAA) also recognises the growing need for a local dedicated arts space. Baw Baw Shire currently has very limited gallery space to showcase local artists' work. With a new centrally located and accessible dedicated art space, local artists would be provided with more opportunities to revitalise the arts scene after the impacts of Covid-19 and attract tourism and economic stimulation through new showings and exhibitions.

Council has pledged $10 million towards the project and recently secured $3.5 million in State Government funding, but there is still a way to go. Advocacy efforts are continually underway to secure more funds ahead of both pending State and Federal elections. For more project details go to 'Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct' page.

Range of cultural resources

Myli CEO Leanne Williams said, "This project is much more than just shelves of books. It would offer a dynamic and inclusive range of cultural resources and experiences for all members of our community. This precinct will create connection and social inclusion across library, learning, arts, culture and tourism services - a true hub for all residents of Baw Baw Shire."

"Baw Baw Shire has over 13,000 library members, with 60 percent of those members of the Warragul library. The new Warragul library will be the largest in the Shire and the 'Flagship' library for the region. Our growing community deserves a larger, modern and future-proofed library to cater for our current and future generations."

BBAA President Anita George said, "Baw Baw Shire has an incredibly talented and diverse pool of local artists which is something to be celebrated. However, the lack of central and accessible gallery space is limiting to the types of exhibitions and installations that can be shared with the community. The Baw Baw Arts Alliance strongly supports the new proposed Culture and Connection Precinct and the opportunities this type of facility would bring to our community."

Strengthening the community

Mayor Cr Michael Leaney said, "We are so grateful to have the support of Myli and BBAA behind this project. Together we will continue to lobby all levels of government to show them how valuable this place would be for our community."

"Our shared vision for this precinct is so much more than a new library - it's a place for young children to create memories through story time, a welcoming space for locals to learn new skills and access technology they may not have at home."

"It's a place for community groups to meet and plan the events and activities that are part of Baw Baw's fabric, like local markets and festivals. It's a place for our local art treasures to inspire us and new gallery spaces that we desperately lack. Places like this strengthen communities, this is our goal for Baw Baw." Mayor Leaney concluded.

Pictures from Baw Baw Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Australia will celebrate its first Red & Yellow Day on March 4, 2026, honouring volunteer lifesavers and supporting lifesaving clubs through community participation and fundraising for vital water safety initiatives.
• Peri Urban Councils urge state government to invest in infrastructure and support housing growth across regions
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria is urging government investment in infrastructure after a new report recommended 40% of new homes be built in regional Australia, highlighting housing demand, high costs, and infrastructure pressures.
• Bass Coast Shire Council pop-up sessions on four local playspace upgrades and proposed new designs on 13 Jan 2026
  Bass Coast Council is upgrading four playspaces in Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson, and Ventnor, inviting community feedback on two design options via Engage Bass Coast and January pop-up sessions.
• Danny O’Brien condemns sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, 73 jobs lost, pledges support for affected community
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien says sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, costing 73 jobs, devastates the community, pledging support for affected families, workers, and local businesses during this crisis.
• East Gippsland drivers urged to follow parking limits this festive season to support local businesses
  East Gippsland Shire Council reminds drivers to follow festive season parking limits, ensuring accessibility, supporting local businesses, and avoiding fines, while respecting loading zones and disabled parking bays.
• Lifeline Workshop in Warragul Library: Understanding and Preventing Family Violence for community awareness and safety
  Free two‑hour session at Lifeline, held at MYLI Warragul on 25 Nov 2025 from 1‑3 pm, aims to build awareness, understanding and practical strategies to prevent family violence.
• Latrobe City Council to negotiate Old Methodist Church sale following community consultation and support heritage reuse
  Following community consultation, Latrobe City Council will negotiate the Old Methodist Church sale to Traralgon Historical Society, supporting heritage reuse and allocating $86,000 funding contingent on securing a VicTrack lease.
• Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior honoured for Warragul Station Park artwork celebrating culture, community and family legacy
  Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior's cockatoo design now features in Warragul Station Park, honouring Kurnai and Gunditjmara heritage, community ties, and his family legacy alongside uncle Lionel Rose's iconic statue.
• Danny O’Brien urged immediate start on Wilsons Promontory revitalisation, including the proposed Yanakie Isthmus fence
  The Allan Labor government faces criticism for ongoing delays to the Wilsons Promontory sanctuary, with Nationals MP Danny O’Brien urging immediate construction to protect wildlife and complete the long-promised project.
• Melina Bath warns rising crime under Labor threatens community safety, as offences increase, calling for stronger police support and tougher laws
  Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath warns crime rose 12.7% to 640,860 under Labor, with reduced police funding and station hours leaving Victorians unsafe, calling for stronger laws and police support.
• Bruthen and Buchan town centre upgrades boost tourism, safety, and local businesses with $3.8M government support
  Bruthen and Buchan town centre upgrades, supported by $3.8 million government funding, improve safety, accessibility, tourism, and local business, while celebrating Indigenous culture and supporting bushfire-affected communities.
• Melina Bath celebrates Victorian farmers’ dedication and contributions during National Agriculture Week 2025
  The Nationals’ Melina Bath highlights Victorian farmers’ hard work, resilience, and vital contributions during National Agriculture Week, urging support for primary producers and celebrating their role in communities and the economy.
• Geoff Rossetti’s legacy continues as son leads Freedom of Entry March honouring Sale defence community
  Geoff Rossetti’s son will lead Sale’s Freedom of Entry march, honouring family legacy and the city’s longstanding Defence connection, with community celebrations continuing at Brennan Park on 19 October.
• Melina Bath encourages increased funding for regional palliative care, ensuring dignity and support statewide
  Melina Bath warned underfunded regional palliative care forces terminally ill Victorians into hospitals instead of home, calling for urgent investment to ensure dignity, support, and equal access across eastern Victoria.
• Bass Coast Shire Council celebrates local community groups’ achievements and grants at inspiring event
  Bass Coast Council celebrated 92 local community groups, awarding $294,000 in grants, including $40,000 for climate projects, supporting creativity, connection, and resilience across the region at a vibrant celebration.
• Wellington Shire Council to update Community Local Law 2021, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and strong legal compliance
  The Safer Communities Plan includes Jack's Law to clear weapons from streets, Restart for repeat offenders, and Youthstart to support at-risk youth. Mr Cameron says Labor lacks a plan to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, leaving regions vulnerable.
• Cycling Without Age Gippsland delights Wilson Lodge residents and 98-year-old Joyce, boosting wellbeing and community connection for older people
  Cycling Without Age Gippsland celebrated its oldest passenger, 98-year-old Joyce Grimer, and welcomed Wilson Lodge residents, providing free trishaw rides that promote wellbeing, social connection, and community engagement for older Australians.
• Danny O’Brien congratulates Gippsland Volunteer Emergency Services on VESEP funding support
  Danny O’Brien praised Gippsland volunteer emergency services for VESEP funding, supporting vital equipment, facility upgrades, and ongoing advocacy for a new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel to ensure community safety.
• Tim Bull says locals and community groups want stronger enforcement as illegal campers leave areas unkempt
  Tim Bull urges Environment Minister Dimopoulos to act on illegal campers along the Snowy River, balancing public access for tourists with enforcement and welfare oversight to protect local businesses.
• Latrobe City invites local artists to join new Public Art Artist Register for murals and creative city projects until 10 February 2026
  Latrobe City Council invites local artists to join its Public Art Artist Register, offering paid mural opportunities, enhancing public spaces, supporting tourism, and connecting artists with future creative projects.
• South Gippsland Eat, Drink Play Festival celebrates local food, drinks, live music, kids' activities, and outdoor fun and other updates
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns this spring at Leongatha Railway Precinct, showcasing regional food, drink, and live music. With daytime tastings, evening entertainment, and kids' activities, it's a family-friendly celebration of Gippsland.
• Latrobe City Council develops community outreach program to boost CBD safety and reduce anti-social behaviour locally
  Latrobe City Council will develop a $30,000 community outreach program to support vulnerable individuals, reduce anti-social behaviour, and improve safety in CBDs and transport hubs across the municipality.
• East Gippsland Australia Day Awards celebrate community spirit, honouring events and initiatives making meaningful impact in 2026
  The 2026 East Gippsland Australia Day Awards honoured the Winter Festival and Breast Care Support Fund for fostering connection, generosity, and community spirit across the region.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on 50-year Fish Creek Football Netball Club lease proposal by 25 February 2026
  South Gippsland Shire Council invites community submissions on a proposed 50-year lease to Fish Creek Football Netball Club for new clubrooms. Submissions close 5pm, Wednesday 25 February 2026, addressed to the CEO.
• Darren Chester urges Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants now available until 31 January 2026
  Federal MP Darren Chester is urging Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants supporting travel and competition costs. Eligible juniors aged 12-18 can apply before 31 January 2026.
• Danny O’Brien says July-September 2025 data shows Labor continues failing Gippsland’s critical emergency response
  Ambulance Victoria data shows Gippsland response times well below targets, with urgent calls for the Allan Labor government to improve staffing, resources, and performance to protect regional communities.
• East Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr Jodie Ashworth's Christmas message
  A Christmas message celebrating East Gippsland’s community spirit, kindness and connection, encouraging care for one another, support for local businesses, warm hospitality for visitors, gratitude for workers this season together.
• West Gippsland CMA hosts free sustainable farming workshops with local landcare groups from September 2025 to March 2026
  West Gippsland CMA is hosting free farm field days September - March, showcasing sustainable agriculture, carbon farming, and local expertise. Workshops cover soil health, biodiversity, biofertilizers, and agribusiness opportunities.
• Community-led partnerships restore Kugerungmome/Powlett River catchment health on Bunurong Country, from source to sea
  Community, Traditional Owners and agencies are restoring the Kugerungmome/Powlett River, delivering $1 million in on-ground works to protect culture, biodiversity and water quality across a 50,000-hectare catchment on Bunurong Country.
• Labor government delivers $2.73M Sale Hospital upgrade, modernising Community Services building for Gippsland healthcare staff
  The Allan Labor government is delivering a $2.73 million upgrade to Sale Hospital's historic Community Services Building, modernising facilities for healthcare workers, patients, and students through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.