He was in the south-west to hand out more than $1 million for community programs and roads.

Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club received $6373 to provide services for the patrol tower including a laptop computer and data connections to allow the use of new emergency services technology LIMSOC. Other improvements will include the fit-out of benches and storage in the patrol tower.

The bathroom and shower facilities will also receive an upgrade with improved lighting and showerheads.

The Grassmere-Hexham Road received a $975,000 boost. 

The upgrade of 7.27 kilometres of road will widen the thoroughfare, which opens it up to improved access for b-double and other higher productivity vehicles.

Moyne Shire matched the Federal Government funding, which came from its Commonwealth Bridges Renewal Program and the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.

The Friends of the Warrnambool Botanic Gardens received $6600 to establish a bluestone path.

FWBG secretary Mandy King the funding was in line with recommendations within the gardens’ masterplan.

“We believe the botanical gardens are an incredibly important asset for the town and we appreciated Mr. Tehan supporting our application,” Mrs King said.

“This grant will help us to continue to develop the gardens sustainably – building our future but acknowledging our past.”

Simpson received a cash boost for its town entry signage project for the installation of distinctive signage at the two main entrances.

Mr Tehan said the Simpson community would receive $9000 for the project.

Corangamite Shire mayor Jo Beard welcomed the funding announcement.

“The creation of distinctive town entry signage is the top priority in the town’s community plan,” she said. 

Cobden Football Netball Club received $9,750 for the installation of an electronic scoreboard at the town’s recreation reserve.