Treasurer Tim Pallas will be cast in the role as Santa next Wednesday when he delivers the Victorian budget.

But what his budget contains, much like Santa’s sack, will determine the mood of many.

In a pre-budget announcement, the government on Friday announced $7 million to build a much-needed new special development school in Portland and another $3 million for other school upgrades.

The commitment is a significant win for the Portland Bay School community, which had to endure a closure last year because the ageing facilities were considered too dangerous. The government rightly gets a tick of approval.

But what else might be coming south-west Victoria’s way?

The number one priority for the region is funding for the $100 million second stage of Warrnambool Base Hospital’s upgrade.

This is the big ticket item the government needs to back. Premier Daniel Andrews knows the issue well. As Health Minister in John Brumby’s Labor government he was instrumental in the $90 million first stage redevelopment.

Now, as Premier, the region needs him to deliver again. The hospital needs a new emergency department, operating theatres, upgraded day surgery and improved diagnostic and medical imaging facilities.

Second on our wish-list must be a fourth daily train service between Warrnambool and Melbourne. New, or at least modern, rolling stock would be nice – but the regional rail crisis limits our chances. Increasing the number of services seems a cheaper and more achievable possibility.

Road funding is another critical expectation entering the budget. The federal government has set aside $345 million for regional roads in Victoria only if Spring Street matches it. Again, this is a must. The region’s roads resemble goat tracks and transport operators are footing hefty additional maintenance costs.

Mr Andrews and Mr Pallas are on a hiding to nothing. They have to govern for all Victorians and won’t be able to fund every project.

Friday’s announcement in Portland gives us hope. Hopefully Mr Pallas is more Santa than grinch on Wednesday.