I am very pleased today to announce a further $4 million for the restoration of the historic Fort Scratchley site.
This extra funding brings the Australian Government's commitment to almost $10 million and will ensure the site is restored in a manner that befits its special place in Australia's military history.
The Fort was built in the late 1800s in response to fears of Russian naval attacks on Newcastle and fired on a Japanese midget submarine in 1942.
It is listed on Commonwealth Heritage Register and is a prominent historic landmark and popular tourist attraction at the eastern end of Newcastle Peninsula. The site includes fortifications, gun pits, magazines, underground tunnels and open areas.
In 2004, the Australian Government and the Newcastle City Council executed an agreement for the Commonwealth to restore Fort Scratchley with Commonwealth funding for the restoration capped at $5.51 million.
The Council allocated $400,000 for restoration and refurbishment works.
Vandalism and the requirement for more extensive site decontamination and remediation, has meant the overall project costs have escalated over time.
I am also pleased to announce today that the Australian Government has signed a contract for the restoration with Kane Constructions Pty Ltd and expects these works to commence before the end of May. Completion is scheduled for early 2008.
I would encourage the Newcastle City Council to continue to work with the Australian Government to ensure this restoration project is a success.