Media Statements - Centenary of Federation grant to help fund grain industry display

15/8/00

The Shire of Mingenew has secured funding of $17,500 to create a permanent record of the history and operation of the grain industry from early settlement to the present day.

Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Rob Johnson said the grain display would incorporate a 7.5m sculpture depicting a sheaf of wheat, which would be positioned in the main street of Mingenew.

“Mingenew is a focal point for the wheat industry and it is envisaged that the project will become a valuable tourist attraction as well as a source of education and research,” Mr Johnson said.

The money was allocated in the fifth and final round of grants by the Centenary of Federation State Committee.

Mr Johnson said the final allocation of funds took to 201 the number of community projects that have shared in $3.5 million set aside by the State Government to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Federation next year.

Communities have pledged a further $14.5 million to realise local Centenary of Federation projects.

“The WA 2001 Community Centenary Project has benefited a wide range of communities right across our vast State,” the Minister said.

“The projects will enhance the lives of remote communities like Gascoyne Junction and Laverton, as well as the regional centres of Albany and Carnarvon - and the heart of Perth itself.

“Successful projects will culminate in 2001 and form lasting reminders of the Centenary of Federation as well as provide valuable facilities and attractions that will benefit the wider community.”

Mr Johnson said the final round of Centenary grants had also seen four projects receive substantial allocations. These are:

$390,000 towards the construction of an elevated walkway through the canopy of trees in King’s Park;

$200,000 toward the construction of the Centenary of Federation Southern Cross Cosmos Centre at Gingin;

$100,000 for a major festival in Albany featuring a range of Federation-related events, including a concert, parade, citizenship ceremonies and Anzac Day commemorations including a trench breakfast and exhibitions; and -

$66,000 to restore three historic railway carriages, whose origins date back to the start of the Trans-Australian Railway.

Media contact: Fran Hodge (08) 9215 4800