The Federal Government will provide $7 million supporting five East Gippsland community-based projects to boost the regional economy.
Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack, and Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, last week announced the first projects under the ‘Regional Recovery Partnership’ (RRP).
“We recognise that East Gippsland has been one of the regions hardest hit by the combined impacts of drought, bushfires and the coronavirus and this program is designed to respond to local economic priorities,” Mr McCormack said.
“The RRP program reflects the Australian Government’s commitment to working in partnership with other levels of government to deliver targeted initiatives supporting jobs, economic recovery and economic diversification.
“The successful projects all have funding commitments from the state or local government and have the capacity to be delivered over the next 12 months.”
Successful projects in the electorate of Gippsland are:
* Krautungalung walk, Lakes Entrance, $2.2 million.
* East Gippsland Rail Trail, $ 2million.
* Forest Park, Orbost, $1.3 million.
* Slip Rd, Paynesville, $1 million.
* Koala Discovery and Rehabilitation, Paynesville and Raymond Island, $500,000.
Mr Chester had been working with the Paynesville Business and Tourism Association and East Gippsland Shire on plans to make Paynesville an even better place to live, work and visit, resulting in the funding for Slip Road.
“The works include a new sea-wall, boardwalks, amenity block improvements, reduced flooding, landscaping and car parking, additional boat ramp, additional jetties and a canal crossing,” Mr Chester said.
“This funding will help promote Paynesville as a year-round destination and build on the Foreshore development opportunities.
“Paynesville’s waterfront is one of the town’s drawcards for residents, visitors and boaters.
“The PBTA had highlighted the need for investment on public land to improve infrastructure in areas like Slip Road.
“Slip Road Maritime Precinct is one of Victoria’s busiest recreational waterways adjoining the Gippsland Ports boatyard and sits opposite a range of boatbuilding, maritime servicing and related businesses.
“It will allow Paynesville to capitalise on its unique location at the heart of the Gippsland Lakes.
“The Federal Government is working in partnership with East Gippsland Shire Council and the community to deliver local priority projects.”
IMAGE: Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, has secured $1 million in funding towards an upgrade of Slip Road in Paynesville. Mr Chester is pictured with East Gippsland Shire Councillor, Kirsten Van Diggele, Slip Road steering committee member, Tony Webster, and State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, at the announcement last Friday. (PS)
