The State Government must come clean on its plans for the Sandhurst Centre site in Bendigo, amid growing concerns from local residents.
The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad inspected the Finn Street site following several fires at the centre, which are believed to have been deliberately lit.
“Locals are increasingly concerned about the activities at the abandoned site,” Ms Broad said.
“The buildings have suffered major damage from vandalism and there is graffiti everywhere.
“Nearby residents are worried about squatters and drug deals in a week where Bendigo has been labelled the meth capital of Victoria. Now we have fires as well.”
Ms Broad raised the issue in Parliament on February 20 this year, asking the Minister for Health to explain what would happen with the site.
The Minister is yet to address the issues raised by the community.
The Sandhurst Boys’ Home was established in 1956 to cater for adolescent boys with intellectual disabilities. It was managed by the Department of Health and closed in 2016 when the 29 residents were moved to purpose-built residential homes.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
