The next stage of the Future of Yarram project is underway with the responsablity transitioning from the Wellington Shire Council to the Yarram and District Progress Association with support from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence today announced the Yarram and District Progress Association will receive a $498,652 grant from the Forestry Transition Program to continue the next phase of the project.
Over the past two years the project has been delivered with the support of the Council. It has started important work to diversify the district's economy under the leadership of Project Manager Matt Langdon.
Matt undertook an extensive process to understand the needs and ambitions of the Yarram community. Five key initiatives to explore were identified from his work including working holiday makers, creative Yarram, outdoor recreation, new energy and Strzelecki Koala conservation.
The Yarram and District Progress Association will now pick up the Future of Yarram baton and continue to progress the next stages of this work which includes strategic planning, business case development and implementation of innovation opportunities.
The Wellington Shire Council, which partnered with the Government to deliver the first phase of the Future of Yarram, has also received a further $90,000 grant to conduct a drainage assessment of sites proposed for residential and industrial development at Yarram.
The project will help overcome barriers to housing and commercial development in the region, supporting population and business growth.
For more information visit deeca.vic.gov.au/forestry.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence
"We're supporting Yarram to plan for future growth, diversification of their economies and to transition to new and sustainable industries that provide new jobs and opportunities."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
"The foundations have already been laid for the Future of Yarram project and I look forward to seeing it grow under the guidance of the Yarram and District Progress Association."
As stated by Wellington Shire CEO David Morcom
"With support from the Victorian Government, we recognise the positive progress made in partnership with the Yarram community over the past two years, and we look forward to seeing these initiatives move forward in the next phase."
As stated by Yarram and District Progress Association President Emily Spalding
"It's a big change for our Association and a significant challenge but we know that with the support of the local community, we can help make Future of Yarram a massive success for the region."
