THE Albanese Government’s first Federal Budget has delivered on two key election prom- ises for the Derwent Valley and Brighton municipalities. Last night’s Budget secured $5 million for the New Norfolk sports upgrade at Tynwald Park and Kensington Park and $1.5 million for a new building to house GP services at Brighton.

Lyons Labor MP Brian Mitchell said that he was proud that after less than five months since the federal election, commitments had been honoured.

“This funding package will help upgrade Boyer Oval and deliver key elements of Derwent Valley Council’s recreational facilities upgrade plan that includes the Tynwald Park and Kensington Park master plans,’’ Mr Mitchell said.

“The Derwent Valley has a long and proud history of strong participation in community sports and this funding will help deliver the facilities this region deserves. “I look forward to working with the mayor and council, clubs and other stakeholders, to get these upgrades happening as soon as possible.

“Labor’s New Norfolk Sports Package isn’t just about helping local clubs and encouraging participation in sports – it’s about building local communities. “The Derwent Valley is one of Tasmania’s fastest growing areas and requires public amenities to match. “The New Norfolk Sports Package will rejuvenate these important community assets, boost sporting participation across Australian Rules, soccer, and cricket, and ultimately deliver long-term health and community benefits for the Derwent Valley.’’

The $1.5 million for GP services in Brighton will be spent on a new building on Brighton Road that will offer doctor services. Mr Mitchell said the goal was for the centre to become a walk-in, after-hours health centre. “The funding follows the new Labor government’s decision to slash the cost of medicines on the PBS and its continuing commitment to strengthen Medicare and provide extra incentives for regional GPs,’’ Mr Mitchell said.

“I promised that a Labor government would invest $1.5m in a new GP clinic in Brighton and today that promise becomes a reality.

“We all know that recruiting and retaining GPs in the regions is getting harder, and providing state-of the-art facilities will make the job that little bit easier. Brighton is a fast-growing area, bursting with young families and it needs more GPs and medical services, not less.

“I look forward to working with Brighton Council and Dr Mary Lumsden as this new clinic prepares to offer much needed medical services to this growing community.’’