12/8/04
The State Government has provided funding to help establish major new industries around Donnybrook, Bridgetown and Greenbushes during the past three years, South-West Minister Bob Kucera said today.
The $181,600 in funding has come through the State Government’s Regional Development Scheme which, in the South-West, is administered by the South West Development Commission.
Mr Kucera said the latest round had just closed and he expected to announce the successful applications in the next few weeks.
Including the current funding round - still under consideration - the State will have granted $1.6million to projects throughout the South-West region.
“This funding is for projects that improve the economic and social development of the region and are a kick-start to help get important projects on their way,” the Minister said.
Among the previous RDS success stories is the rapidly expanding olive industry, the State provided $24,500 to the South West Olive Association towards preparation of a business plan for the establishment of a regional olive facility, owned and operated by olive growers.
To help boost tourism in the region, the State provided $20,000 to help bring the Greenbushes mining story to life through an interactive mining display.
The Government’s RDS funding also supports social and community development in the region, shown by the $15,000 provided to the Balingup VINTAGE group.
VINTAGE, which stands for Visionary, Integrated Aged Care, is supporting the choice of older residents to receive support and stay in their own town and home as they age.
“The State Government is committed to providing assistance in regional areas to encourage growth and prosperity in these districts both economically, and in a social sense,” Mr Kucera said.
Minister's office: 9213 7000
