- Published:
- Friday 26 October 2018
The Andrews Labor Government is helping regions hit hard by drought to grow and diversify their local economies.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford today joined East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Joe Rettino at the National Drought Summit in Canberra to announce $1 million for the Shire to develop a business case and build the first stage of a new mountain bike trail in Omeo.
The funding is provided through the Labor Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund, along with $1.52 million from East Gippsland Shire and $1.5 million from the Federal Government.
The proposed 112-kilometre trail aims to establish Omeo as an international mountain bike destination and attract more visitors to the region – boosting tourism and diversifying Omeo’s economy.
The $4 million project would also feature a dedicated bike skills park, cycle and bike wash facilities, toilet and shower amenities, trailhead and signage.
East Gippsland Shire will work with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and Parks Victoria to deliver the business case and first stage of works.
The Labor Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund invests in growing the visitor economy across regional Victoria by facilitating the development of iconic regional tourism projects that create world-class tourism experiences and boost the regional economy.
In another boost for Omeo, Minister Pulford also announced a further $50,000 to East Gippsland Shire to build the local skills and experience needed to deliver projects that will help boost the local economy.
Quote attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“This funding will make the Omeo Mountain Bike Trail a reality, boosting tourism, local businesses and jobs.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“We’re creating new tourism destinations by building critical infrastructure, encouraging private sector investment and supporting the sustainable management of Victoria’s iconic natural assets.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“It’s been a labour of love to advocate alongside the Omeo community and the East Gippsland Shire Council for this important funding over the last year, and this funding means that more people can discover and enjoy this extraordinary part of Gippsland and that local jobs and visitor numbers will grow as a result.”