Developer Wel.Co has put the shovel in the ground at its $625-million
Yallarah Estate at Echuca, 225km north of Melbourne.
Wel.Co, led by Foudner and Managing Director Andrew Welsh, held a sod turn ceremony of the community that will comprise over 2000 homes. The development is set to contribute $38 million in major infrastructure enhancements to the local area and help alleviate affordability pressures for regional Victoria.
After receiving its development permit approval in January under the Echuca West Precinct Structure Plan, Yallarah will become a centrepiece of the Echuca community, set to boast the largest display village in the area in addition to plans for a future early learning centre on-site.
The commencement of civil construction marks a significant step towards making Yallarah a reality and helps unlock supply of residential housing to the greater region.
Damien Saunders of the Yorta Yorta Aboriginal Corporation performed a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country to commence proceedings before Welsh expressed excitement at the commencement of Yallarah’s construction, describing it as the largest infrastructure project the region has seen.
“This new community is a significant undertaking and one that has been of significant importance for several years," Welsh said.
"We look forward to the delivery of a fantastic new neighbourhood to support the entirety of Echuca for what is one of the largest projects in regional Victoria.
“As a national developer, with a focus on regional areas, Wel.Co is hugely excited to be entering construction on this landmark project.
“This is a project that will deliver massive benefits to the local community and economy.”
Yallarah will deliver massive benefits to both the local community and economy, helping pave the way for an estimated 4,500 new workers required by 2026 alone in Echuca and its surrounds.
Robert Hondromatidis, Wel.Co’s Head of Residential Property for Victoria and South Australia, expressed his eagerness about the project's progress.
“The commencement of the construction phase marks a significant step towards creating a vibrant neighbourhood in Echuca.”
Winslow Constructors have begun earthworks in Yallarah’s opening stage, which will start with clearing topsoil and leveling the site, followed by sewer and drainage works, service connections, and road and concrete works.