John Bowler

John Bowler

Former Minister for Local Government; Employment Protection; Racing and Gaming; Goldfields-Esperance and Great Southern

    $282,325 to boost South-West

    1/12/2005 12:00 AM
     
    01/12/05

    Commercial and industrial projects in regional Western Australia have been bolstered by more than $282,325 in State Government funding.

    Local Government and Regional Development Minister John Bowler announced a total of 13 projects had been funded through the Regional Headworks Program (RHP), representing an investment of $700,000 across the State.

    The projects funded were:
    • $49,875 to the Shire of Nannup, for the Brockman Street power extension;
    • $21,717 to the Country Music Club of Boyup Brook WA Inc, for power extensions to the entertainment precinct;
    • $124,000 to RK and B Woodhouse, for irrigation extension to a dairy farm at Karridale;
    • $15,518 to St John Ambulance, for a new ambulance facility for Bridgetown;
    • $33,509 to JH and FR Scott, to upgrade power to the dairy in Busselton;
    • $29,906 to Appadene Forest Products Pty Ltd, for expansion of the furniture factory in Manjimup; and
    • $8,000 to R Denton and S Crane (New Mexico Trust), for an organic farm development in Nannup.
    Mr Bowler said RHP grants between $5,000 and $200,000 were on offer for essential services such as water, electricity, telecommunications, gas, drainage and sewerage to organisations undertaking commercial or industrial projects in regional areas.

    “These projects will help build stronger local economies, more jobs and encourage new businesses providing services to local industries and residents,” he said.

    “The development of the Nannup cultural precinct and Boyup Brook Country Music Club entertainment precinct will result in facilities that will stimulate tourism in those areas.”

    The Minister said support for dairy farmers to upgrade power would enable them to expand their herds to meet the challenges being experienced in the industry.

    “Innovative small enterprises, such as Gold Gully Organic Farm in Nannup, will pave the way for diversified agricultural activity in regional areas and assistance to Appadene Forest Products in Manjimup will enable them to increase its manufacturing capacity and product range,” he said.

    “Projects like these are important in encouraging sustainable development in regional Western Australia and ensuring all areas receive their fair share.”

    The funds provided through the Regional Headworks Program were part of the State Government's $80million Regional Investment Fund (RIF).

    Minister's office: 9213 6500