Plans for an eight-hectare botanic garden in the small Campaspe Shire town of Girgarre will become a reality, with key new support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas today visited Girgarre to announce an investment of almost $1.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund - Stimulus Round to support stage two of the Gargarro Regional Botanic Garden development.
The second stage will include construction of the region's first Sensory Garden which will have multiple areas to reflect the region's landscapes and indigenous flora, alongside a welcome gateway, water feature and lookout.
The new funding is in addition to two previous grants totalling $100,000 from the Labor Government's Stronger Regional Communities Plan, which enabled stage one of the project to proceed. This helped to develop the Green Thumbs Community Nursery, which will initially be run by volunteers.
Once completed, the full project will include eight hectares of gardens, an amphitheatre, event space and cafe. This project will be a huge benefit for the town of 560 people and create more jobs, after the Girgarre community has experienced challenges including drought and the closure of local businesses.
The Regional Infrastructure Fund is part of the Labor Government's flagship $156 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, helping businesses create more jobs in regional Victoria, supporting community projects and backing councils to build the infrastructure that locals and visitors need.
The second round of the Regional Infrastructure Fund's 2020/21 program is due to open for applications from 16 June.
The Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund is central to the Labor Government's almost $30 billion investment in rural and regional Victoria since 2015. More information and fund guidelines can be found at rdv.vic.gov.au/rjif.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
"The Campaspe Shire is a stunning part of our state - this investment in Girgarre will create jobs and help make the region an even better place to live, work and visit."
As stated by the Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"Girgarre locals are justifiably proud of their town and region, and the botanic garden project will help put the area on the tourist map. We're delighted to be able to back this important project."
