Eight Great Southern projects focusing on creating jobs, manufacturing and boosting tourism experiences will receive a total of $797,995 in Regional Economic Development grants.
Albany-based manufacturer Himac Attachments will receive $47,148 to develop and construct an interactive digital platform for fabrication and welding processes, creating new job opportunities for young people, including school leavers, in the region.
By streamlining its manufacturing process, the company will be able to boost production, which in turn will benefit local steel supply businesses and decrease the number of attachments that need to be imported.
Among the RED grant recipients is South Coast Natural Resource Management Inc, which will use its $149,860 grant to develop the Seeding Great Southern Noongar Enterprises project.
The project will provide training, equipment and mentoring for Tambellup and Gnowangerup Aboriginal communities to establish seed and seedling propagation businesses to meet growing demand through the emerging native bush food industry and environmental restoration projects.
Shire of Cranbrook, West Coast Analytical Services, Woodlands Distillery Pty Ltd, Dellendale Creamery, Albany Seafoods and Monty’s Leap winery are the remaining six grant recipients under Round 2 of the RED Grants program.
In making the announcement, Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the McGowan Government has committed $28.8 million over five years towards the RED Grants program for projects that will directly benefit regional communities.
“The McGowan Government is investing in a diverse range of projects, particularly those which will create jobs and training opportunities for young people and support the long-term growth of manufacturing and business development in the Great Southern,” the Minister said.
“Boosting our local manufacturing capability is vital to the future economic growth and sustainability of our regional communities.
“Projects such as the construction of modular housing and local machinery fabrication will provide wide community benefits, supporting other local businesses in the region like steel suppliers, electricians, tilers and plumbers.”
Image Credit: Alannah MacTiernan
