SPC KidsTown

The Victorian Government and Greater Shepparton City Council is doing a $45000 feasibility study to explore the possibilities of future development.

The SPC Ardmona KidsTown Tourism and Economic Opportunities for the Region project will also look at the infrastructure required for workshops, festivals and events.

The Victorian Government is investing $30000 and the council $15000 for the study.

State Member for Shepparton Jeanette Powell said the study would consider how the Greater Shepparton community could use the facilities to create a site that fostered growth for local organisations and strengthened tourism in the region.

‘‘We see the future facility as a multi-functional site which offers educational, cooking and cultural programs,’’ she said.

City of Greater Shepparton Deputy Mayor Dennis Patterson said KidsTown was a terrific venue that had plenty of potential.

‘‘Greater Shepparton doesn’t have great tourist attractions as in the old buildings and great rainforests, so we really have to develop our tourist attractions and this is a perfect example of it,’’ he said.

‘‘There’s a potential for school camps and I believe there is endless opportunity to develop — it’s going to be a win-win for everyone.’’

KidsTown co-ordinator Steve Wilson said he was thrilled a feasibility study would be done.

‘‘We’ve been quite lucky to receive some funding over the last six months with KidsFest and the funding (to upgrade) the fruit bin maze and now this,’’ he said.

‘‘Every time someone comes to KidsTown they spend money in other parts of the town, so the spin-off financially is going to benefit the whole community.’’

The study is expected to be completed by June next year