Bendigo Discovery Centre set for $200,000 injection

Tuesday, 27 September 2011

Minister for Regional Cities Denis Napthine has said the Bendigo Discovery Science and Technology Centre is a fantastic facility filled with interactive learning displays that help introduce children to science in a fun and exciting environment.

"While people in the Bendigo region already know what an amazing asset the discovery centre is, this facility deserves to be recognised alongside Australia's premier science-based educational centres," Dr Napthine said.

The Victorian Government is honouring its promise to provide $200,000 across four years for the ongoing operation of the Bendigo Discovery Science and Technology Centre.

"We want to raise the profile and reputation of the Discovery Centre and make sure that every school in the country knows about its marvelous range of exhibits" Dr Napthine said. "This funding will allow even more children to benefit from what the centre has to offer through the Discovery Centre's delivery of in-school and outreach programs."

The Bendigo Science and Technology Centre is a not-for-profit operation and recently entered a five-year management partnership with the Bendigo Trust.

The Discovery Centre also had the potential to be one of central Victoria's major tourism attractions. With plenty to offer children of all ages, this funding will help the Discovery Centre rise to the top of the list when it comes to family holiday destinations.

"This additional funding will also allow the Discovery Centre to better promote itself as a key destination for excursions with schools who wish to not only visit the Discovery Centre but also take in the diverse range of heritage, historical and other educational opportunities in the Bendigo" Dr Napthine said.

"The Government is committed to fostering growth and diversity in regional Victoria and investing in the Bendigo Discovery Science and Technology Centre is a fantastic way to showcase Bendigo and attract people to the region."