The Allan Labor Government is helping small businesses in the Murrindindi Shire expand - helping to create new jobs and growing the local economy.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence today announced a total of $100,000 in funding has been awarded to a childcare centre and a boat servicing business from the Forestry Transition Fund - Round 1 grants program.
Dindi Daycare, located in Alexandra, is using a $50,000 Forestry Transition Fund grant to build acoustic fencing at the childcare centre to provide a safe environment for children.
The business was established by Pagan McCarthy, following her firsthand experience looking for long-term childcare facilities in the Murrindindi Shire.
Dindi Daycar is expected to create up to 12 ongoing positions and offer traineeships within the childcare sector when the facility is operational. The availability of childcare will also enable local parents to more readily participate in employment opportunities as well as providing children with the best start in life.
Inferno Marine at Eildon is using a $50,000 Transition Fund grant to purchase a computer numerical control (CNC) machine, so it can manufacture components on site, reducing freight costs and wait times.
The addition of a CNC machine will enable the business, which was founded by Tim Ewert in 2016, to create additional fulltime work and expand services to local communties and businesses.
The funding will also assist Inferno Marine with the purchase of a portable building that will be used as an office.
Round 2 of the Forestry Transition Fund is open now, looking for projects that create jobs and develop businesses in and around communities impacted by the end of native timber harvesting. A $20,000 employment incentive payment for the employment of ex-native timber workers is also available.
Applications close on 31 October 2025. For more information visit deeca.vic.gov.au/forestry(opens in a new window) or call 1800 318 182.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence
"Both Forestry Transition Fund grants are providing important services to their local communities, while creating employment opportunities for workers and contributing to the local economy."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"Our regional childcare centers are pivotal to supporting local families, giving more parents the peace of mind to return to work. These projects will strengthen our community and benefit local business."
As stated by Inferno Marine owner Tim Ewert
"We've been able to purchase the equipment we need, allowing us to save time and costs when it comes to sourcing parts. We can now provide a better service to our customers."
