By Erin Bull

TWO multimillion community projects in the Yam Ranges could still go ahead after the Federal Government last week announced it would review its decision to axe the Regional Partnership Program.

Last month, the Government scrapped promised funds for the redevelopment of the Burrinja Cultural Centre in Upwey and the Montrose Recreation Reserve.

Public pressure has forced the Govemment to rethink its decision.

More than 70 residents attended what was meant to be a protest meeting at Burrinja last Thursday, however theydidn't know whether to celebrate or object. Mayor Tim Heenan said the council would pressure the Federal Government until a document was
signed confirming the Burrinja project was "in the bag". Monbulk MP James Merlino said Burrinja had always been a battle, right
from the beginning.

"My heart sank when we found out it didn't receive funding, but I'm confident we'll get the Federal Government to reverse its decision - 1 won't believe it until I see it though"

La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the council and the State Government had given funding, now the Federal Government should "also do their share of the heavy lifting".

"The Government has said it will now consider these projects but there is still no guarantee."

The Montrose Recreation Reserve Committee is calling on residents to write their own letters and emails to the federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Anthony Albanese, in a bid to have funding for the reserve reinstated.
Montrose Recreation Reserve chairman Ken Dowling said the committee was hoping the minister would reverse his decision.

"Last week, while we were getting word out to ask residents to write letters, the minister announced he would be reviewing the 86 projects within the Regional Partnerships Program, and we're one of them - they have confirmed that.

"Where we stand at the moment is that we're waiting for a letter from the minister, and we have to negotiate an agreement by July 31.

"Things are looking good though."