“D-Men” Coterie Kick Off Fundraising with $10,000 Contribution”

Planning is now underway to establish priorities etc, following the generous grants of $380,000 by the Bracks Government and $660,000 by the Shire of Yarra Ranges. Council has now appointed an internal Project Manager and a committee has been formed between Council and the Reserve Committee. Assistance is being provided by James Merlino, the Minister for Sport, Recreation & Youth Affairs and Cr. Len Cox.

At a Public Meeting in August, 2006, the Montrose Community pledged approximately $100,000 to assist with the redevelopment. The committee is now calling for the Community to honour their pledges by forwarding their donations by the end of March 2007.
The fundraising received a great kick-start in early February with the D-Men Coterie making a contribution of $10,000. The Coterie is a group of local business and community members associated with the football and cricket clubs who meet regularly to raise funds for the Montrose sporting community.

Ken Dowling, the convenor of the Montrose Recreation Reserve Inc. said “Fundraising and the acceptance of donations is an on-going process, as the Community needs to raise well in excess of $100,000 if we are to meet our goals. I am aware that many people, who unfortunately could not attend the Public Meeting, still wish to donate.”

Community members and businesses can contribute by forwarding donations to P.O. Box 233, Montrose 3765. Cheques should be made payable to “Montrose Recreation Reserve Inc.” and receipts will be issued. For further information, phone 9728 2899.

Steve Wright (left), President of the D-Men Coterie presenting a cheque for $10,000 to Ken Dowling, convenor of Montrose Recreation Reserve Inc.