The key platform of the Liberal Party’s election stance is hitting home in Pambula in a big way, even if a touch late.
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On Wednesday, the federal government announced $1.6million in funds from its Regional Jobs and Investment Package was to be invested in Eden-Monaro, creating an estimated 70-plus jobs.
Of the seven businesses receiving funds, four are based in Pambula. The other three are in Bemboka, Quaama and Bodalla.
North Eden Timber is one of those receiving a government boost, to the tune of $132,077. The money is to go towards upgrading machinery and processes, as well as new equipment that will allow the mill to repurpose waste into a saleable product.
As a result it will allow the mill to employ additional staff, a key component of the RJIP.
Owner Mick Loudon said it was great news for the timber mill’s expansion plans, even if the announcement came several months later than expected.
Mr Loudon said the equipment takes six months to build once ordered, which he was told could not be done until the government made the official declaration of funding recipients.
“They were supposed to let us know by October of last year whether we were successful,” he said.
“We have lost a year in production and some of the staff we wanted have moved on.
“I’m a bit sour, but you can’t knock it back.
“On a positive note, the money is certainly a plus – the upgrades will improve our efficiency greatly.”
Along with North Eden Timber, other businesses with their base of operations in Pambula that were successful with funding applications were hearse-builder Hammond Conversions ($222,001), cabinet-maker JW Pointon and Son ($125,000) and Sapphire Coast Tourism, which will receive $74,750 for a program of training and skills development for the region’s tourism operators.
Other Bega Valley projects to gain significant funding were Ryefield Hops, a relatively new hop-growing operation at Bemboka, which will receive almost $600,000, and Quaama-based buthcery Barrabaroo AgVentures, which will get $259,000 towards new poultry capacity.
Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the projects would generate 35 jobs during construction and more than 35 ongoing.
“It’s essential we help regions like the NSW South Coast unlock their potential by investing in key projects that support their economic future.
“This $220 million pilot program being rolled out in 10 regions across the nation is designed to diversify regional economies, particularly those that have undergone large structural changes, to help drive economic growth and jobs.”