Major projects in Harvey and Waroona get funding pledges from Murray-Wellington candidate David Bolt

The Liberal candidate for the seat of Murray-Wellington has pledged funding for major projects in Harvey and Waroona should his party form government at next month’s State election.

With early voting now open for the March 8 poll, Liberal candidate David Bolt has announced several election commitments for the region.

Alongside a $15.5 million boost to the Leschenault Leisure Centre, Harvey’s Meriden Park, the Brunswick Tennis Club and the Waroona Community Precinct project have been promised funding.

The Meriden Park transformation could receive $750,000 for an accessible playground, toilets and an enclosed dog park.

The commitment matches a pledge from Labor announced earlier this year.

Mr Bolt said elections often came down to fighting and contesting ideas, but it also provided an opportunity to focus on what was important in the community.

“I am very pleased to be able to support this project, and I think it will be a great asset for the shire,” he said.

Present at Mr Bolt’s announcement was Harvey local Ester Italiano who was a driving force behind the development of the inclusive playground plan.

Mrs Italiano said the project had been a passion of hers, but had been an emotional journey from first getting council approval to now having the support of both major parties.

Mr Bolt also announced a commitment of $500,000 to the Brunswick Tennis Club to help finalise the court refurbishment which has been under way since November 2023.

The increased funding would allow for modern lighting as well as having the courts playable again.

Mr Bolt also announced a $1.52m boost for phase three of the redevelopment of the Waroona community precinct project which would include upgrades to the irrigation offices alongside Railside Park and the South Western Highway.

It would bring the historically significant building to life to increase tourism and economic activity. The space could be used commercially, include an outdoor seating area, and an indoor restaurant or gallery experience.

“This is a project that started about four or five years ago, and it’s now in stage three so we . . . think it’s important that these projects can be completed all the way,” Mr Bolt said.

“This is an iconic old building and having it back in use will be great for the community as well as the kids and people who enjoy Railside Park.

“When completed that whole precinct will be opened up again for the whole community to enjoy.”