The Andrews Labor Government has supported dozens of long-term jobseekers into meaningful employment during the construction of a new solar farm in the state’s North West.
The Beon Energy Solutions site at Yatpool, 25 kilometres south of Mildura, is nearing completion and incorporates 350,000 solar panels across 100 hectares, with the capacity to generate power to supply about 40,000 homes.
The project has created more than 190 jobs for Sunraysia, including 47 people supported into work by Jobs Victoria, the Labor Government initiative that breaks down barriers to employment through tailored programs that match jobseekers with best-fit employers.
The program focuses on ensuring people have the right support to get job-ready and among the crew at Yatpool are 15 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers and 11 refugees and people who have sought asylum.
The Beon Energy initiative has been a partnership between Jobs Victoria and the Mildura Rural City Council Community Employment Program, with support from recruitment agency Chandler Macleod.
Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula visited the Beon Energy Solutions solar development today to learn from workers and management about the success of the Jobs Victoria program.
The Yatpool solar farm is nearing completion, with all solar panels installed, electrical works almost signed off and commissioning under way.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula
“Victoria has a growing reputation as a renewables powerhouse and we’re creating local jobs which further spread benefits through the community.”
“We’re working in partnership with companies like Beon Energy Solutions to break down barriers to employment and provide support for those who need it most. The results are fantastic to see.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target has given solar and wind organisations all around the world the confidence to invest in our state – generating not just energy, but more jobs and economic opportunities for local communities.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp
“We’re proud to be playing our part in supporting local jobs growth in the North West and powering ahead to create a renewable energy future.”
Quote attributable to Beon Energy Solutions general manager Glen Thomson
“The workers brought on through Jobs Victoria have played an important role on this solar project and we’re very pleased to have been able to provide support to Victorian jobseekers.”
The Andrews Labor Government has supported dozens of long-term jobseekers into meaningful employment during the construction of a new solar farm in the state’s North West.
The Beon Energy Solutions site at Yatpool, 25 kilometres south of Mildura, is nearing completion and incorporates 350,000 solar panels across 100 hectares, with the capacity to generate power to supply about 40,000 homes.
The project has created more than 190 jobs for Sunraysia, including 47 people supported into work by Jobs Victoria, the Labor Government initiative that breaks down barriers to employment through tailored programs that match jobseekers with best-fit employers.
The program focuses on ensuring people have the right support to get job-ready and among the crew at Yatpool are 15 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers and 11 refugees and people who have sought asylum.
The Beon Energy initiative has been a partnership between Jobs Victoria and the Mildura Rural City Council Community Employment Program, with support from recruitment agency Chandler Macleod.
Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula visited the Beon Energy Solutions solar development today to learn from workers and management about the success of the Jobs Victoria program.
The Yatpool solar farm is nearing completion, with all solar panels installed, electrical works almost signed off and commissioning under way.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula
“Victoria has a growing reputation as a renewables powerhouse and we’re creating local jobs which further spread benefits through the community.”
“We’re working in partnership with companies like Beon Energy Solutions to break down barriers to employment and provide support for those who need it most. The results are fantastic to see.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target has given solar and wind organisations all around the world the confidence to invest in our state – generating not just energy, but more jobs and economic opportunities for local communities.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp
“We’re proud to be playing our part in supporting local jobs growth in the North West and powering ahead to create a renewable energy future.”
Quote attributable to Beon Energy Solutions general manager Glen Thomson
“The workers brought on through Jobs Victoria have played an important role on this solar project and we’re very pleased to have been able to provide support to Victorian jobseekers.”
New planning guidelines are now in place for large scale solar development, providing certainty and confidence to the sector and encouraging greater investment, as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s renewable energy boom.
The Minister for Planning Richard Wynne today introduced an amendment to all Victorian planning schemes, implementing the Solar Energy Facilities – Design and Development Guideline.
The Guidelines ensure new solar energy facilities, producing one megawatt or more, are built in appropriate locations which:
are easily accessible to the electricity transmission network
avoid or minimise impacts on their local environments
consider impacts on productive agricultural areas, irrigated areas and areas of environmental importance.
It also includes a range of best-practice approaches to help developers engage with communities and ensure the least possible environmental and social impacts of their proposals.
The Guidelines were shaped by a nine-month development process including extensive consultation with communities, councils and industry and a review of best-practice standards interstate and internationally.
In addition to implementing the Guidelines, the amendment also brings permit assessment for solar facilities in line with large scale wind farms, where the Minister for Planning is the responsible authority.
This consolidated approach will reduce the administrative burden on councils and provide consistent decision making across the state.
The Guidelines and the planning scheme amendment information is available at: planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/solar-energy-facilities-design-and-development guidelines
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“We’ve listened to the community and included a best practice approach to consultation, ensuring people can have their say from an early stage, well before a planning permit is lodged.”
“The Guidelines brings a consistent approach to assessing the appropriateness of solar developments, giving the renewable energy industry more confidence to invest.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Victoria is the renewable energy capital of Australia and these guidelines will strengthen market certainty – boost jobs, reduce emissions and drive down energy prices.”
New planning guidelines are now in place for large scale solar development, providing certainty and confidence to the sector and encouraging greater investment, as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s renewable energy boom.
The Minister for Planning Richard Wynne today introduced an amendment to all Victorian planning schemes, implementing the Solar Energy Facilities – Design and Development Guideline.
The Guidelines ensure new solar energy facilities, producing one megawatt or more, are built in appropriate locations which:
are easily accessible to the electricity transmission network
avoid or minimise impacts on their local environments
consider impacts on productive agricultural areas, irrigated areas and areas of environmental importance.
It also includes a range of best-practice approaches to help developers engage with communities and ensure the least possible environmental and social impacts of their proposals.
The Guidelines were shaped by a nine-month development process including extensive consultation with communities, councils and industry and a review of best-practice standards interstate and internationally.
In addition to implementing the Guidelines, the amendment also brings permit assessment for solar facilities in line with large scale wind farms, where the Minister for Planning is the responsible authority.
This consolidated approach will reduce the administrative burden on councils and provide consistent decision making across the state.
The Guidelines and the planning scheme amendment information is available at: planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/solar-energy-facilities-design-and-development guidelines
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“We’ve listened to the community and included a best practice approach to consultation, ensuring people can have their say from an early stage, well before a planning permit is lodged.”
“The Guidelines brings a consistent approach to assessing the appropriateness of solar developments, giving the renewable energy industry more confidence to invest.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Victoria is the renewable energy capital of Australia and these guidelines will strengthen market certainty – boost jobs, reduce emissions and drive down energy prices.”
The first truckloads of construction and demolition waste will be removed from the huge waste stockpile at Broderick Road in Lara this week – helping to protect the local community and environment.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said the Andrews Labor Government had stepped in to take over management of the stockpile and begin the enormous clean-up effort, which is expected to cost more than $30 million.
Poor site management practices by the previous operator let the recycling waste grow to dangerous levels, resulting in an unacceptable fire risk to the local community, the environment and emergency services.
The site contains an estimated 320,000m3 of mostly construction and demolition waste, including materials such as timber, concrete, bricks, plaster, glass and ceramics.
The first stage will be the processing and removal of a 27,000 cubic metre stockpile of timber, weighing an estimated 3,500 tonnes, starting on Monday 16 September.
The Labor Government has provided funding of $30 million to maintain fire prevention measures and clean up the site – a job that could take several years.
The City of Greater Geelong will project manage the works on behalf of EPA and Government – including managing the interim fire risk measures at the site with maintaining 24/7 security, secure fencing and maintenance of firefighting equipment.
EPA will rigorously pursue the previous site occupiers, owners, company directors and any other relevant parties to recover the costs of the fire prevention measures and clean up.
Since August 2017, EPA has had additional powers to support Victoria’s fire services and issue remedial notices to facilities not properly managing potential fire risks. These powers will be strengthened further under the new Environment Protection Act which will come into effect on 1 July 2020, to prevent situations like this in the future.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“We’re cleaning up this waste stockpile to help protect the Lara community and put this rubbish where it belongs.”
“There is absolutely no excuse for the reckless behaviour of the people who left this mess for us to deal with and we will have no hesitation pursuing them to cover the cost of the clean-up.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“This site has been an eyesore and a concern for the local community for far too long – I know the residents of Lara will be thrilled to see this dangerous waste gone for good.”
“This is just the start of a mammoth clean-up effort and we’ll keep working at it until every last piece is disposed of once and for all.”
The first truckloads of construction and demolition waste will be removed from the huge waste stockpile at Broderick Road in Lara this week – helping to protect the local community and environment.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said the Andrews Labor Government had stepped in to take over management of the stockpile and begin the enormous clean-up effort, which is expected to cost more than $30 million.
Poor site management practices by the previous operator let the recycling waste grow to dangerous levels, resulting in an unacceptable fire risk to the local community, the environment and emergency services.
The site contains an estimated 320,000m3 of mostly construction and demolition waste, including materials such as timber, concrete, bricks, plaster, glass and ceramics.
The first stage will be the processing and removal of a 27,000 cubic metre stockpile of timber, weighing an estimated 3,500 tonnes, starting on Monday 16 September.
The Labor Government has provided funding of $30 million to maintain fire prevention measures and clean up the site – a job that could take several years.
The City of Greater Geelong will project manage the works on behalf of EPA and Government – including managing the interim fire risk measures at the site with maintaining 24/7 security, secure fencing and maintenance of firefighting equipment.
EPA will rigorously pursue the previous site occupiers, owners, company directors and any other relevant parties to recover the costs of the fire prevention measures and clean up.
Since August 2017, EPA has had additional powers to support Victoria’s fire services and issue remedial notices to facilities not properly managing potential fire risks. These powers will be strengthened further under the new Environment Protection Act which will come into effect on 1 July 2020, to prevent situations like this in the future.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“We’re cleaning up this waste stockpile to help protect the Lara community and put this rubbish where it belongs.”
“There is absolutely no excuse for the reckless behaviour of the people who left this mess for us to deal with and we will have no hesitation pursuing them to cover the cost of the clean-up.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“This site has been an eyesore and a concern for the local community for far too long – I know the residents of Lara will be thrilled to see this dangerous waste gone for good.”
“This is just the start of a mammoth clean-up effort and we’ll keep working at it until every last piece is disposed of once and for all.”
The Andrews Labor Government is supporting the volunteers who restore and protect our environment with $2.8 million in funding through the Victorian Landcare Grants program.
The annual program delivers critical funding to those who make significant contributions caring for the environment through on-ground works, education and community projects.
The grants will deliver 208 Landcare and environmental projects across Victoria’s 10 Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs), supporting more than 500 groups.
Due to the exceptionally high number of quality applications received across the volunteering sector this year, an extra $1 million in funding has been allocated.
The projects include:
A nest box program to increase habitat for hollow-dependent species in revegetation sites in Nhill.
Converting a former pine plantation into habitat for native animals including the Strzelecki Koala, Greater Glider and Lyrebird in Yarram.
Improving the health of the Bambra Bushland by eradicating weeds and laying weed mat to begin the regeneration process.
Over the past four years, the Labor Government has provided more than $149 million to protect Victoria’s biodiversity, supporting native and threatened species through a range of on-ground initiatives and funding.
The Victorian Landcare Grants are helping to implement the Government’s long-term biodiversity plan, Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037.
Landcare grants are delivered in partnership with CMAs, demonstrating the positive environmental outcomes that can be achieved when environment groups, local communities and the government work together.
For the full list of successful Landcare grant recipients visit environment.vic.gov.au/landcare.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Our volunteers are invaluable and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level.”
“Landcare has been an institution in Victoria for the past 30 years and this funding boost will ensure it continues to make a significant contribution to both the environment and the economy.”
“We’ve invested more than $9 million each year of the program so communities can enjoy our precious natural environment for years to come.”
The Andrews Labor Government is supporting the volunteers who restore and protect our environment with $2.8 million in funding through the Victorian Landcare Grants program.
The annual program delivers critical funding to those who make significant contributions caring for the environment through on-ground works, education and community projects.
The grants will deliver 208 Landcare and environmental projects across Victoria’s 10 Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs), supporting more than 500 groups.
Due to the exceptionally high number of quality applications received across the volunteering sector this year, an extra $1 million in funding has been allocated.
The projects include:
A nest box program to increase habitat for hollow-dependent species in revegetation sites in Nhill.
Converting a former pine plantation into habitat for native animals including the Strzelecki Koala, Greater Glider and Lyrebird in Yarram.
Improving the health of the Bambra Bushland by eradicating weeds and laying weed mat to begin the regeneration process.
Over the past four years, the Labor Government has provided more than $149 million to protect Victoria’s biodiversity, supporting native and threatened species through a range of on-ground initiatives and funding.
The Victorian Landcare Grants are helping to implement the Government’s long-term biodiversity plan, Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037.
Landcare grants are delivered in partnership with CMAs, demonstrating the positive environmental outcomes that can be achieved when environment groups, local communities and the government work together.
For the full list of successful Landcare grant recipients visit environment.vic.gov.au/landcare.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Our volunteers are invaluable and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level.”
“Landcare has been an institution in Victoria for the past 30 years and this funding boost will ensure it continues to make a significant contribution to both the environment and the economy.”
“We’ve invested more than $9 million each year of the program so communities can enjoy our precious natural environment for years to come.”
More than 370 students from 14 schools across the Mornington Peninsula and beyond will gather for the eighth annual Kids Teaching Kids youth leadership conference at Point Nepean National Park this week.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Lily D’Ambrosio said Kids Teaching Kids Week was a fantastic opportunity for young people across Australia to learn from one another and lead change for environmental challenges, while contributing to local and national issues and concerns.
Primary and secondary schools have been preparing for months with the help of ranger mentors from Parks Victoria to present to their peers on challenges and opportunities facing culture, conservation and community.
The student led environmental conference inspires action and collective responsibility through workshops and presentations against a backdrop of the historic Quarantine Station.
The war on waste and future health of our natural resources will be put under the microscope, as will climate change, local bushfire preparedness and endangered species.
Presentations will include:
Tootgarook Primary School exploring the techniques and importance of local bushfire management and preparedness
Boneo Primary School inspiring their peers to ‘Choose to Refuse’
St Joseph’s Primary School unveiling the secrets of the Burrunan Dolphin a species unique to Port Phillip
Bittern Primary School looking at the threat to endangered species caused by habitat destruction
St Macartan’s Primary School challenging thinking around carbon impacts and climate change.
Kids Teaching Kids week is presented by Parks Victoria with support from the national Kids Teaching Kids Week organisers. The Point Nepean National Park day will also feature a series of interactive walk and talks with Park Rangers as they share their knowledge and connect the students with nature.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Kids Teaching Kids is a tangible way for kids to connect with their local environment, helping the next generation understand how global issues impact special places like our national parks and waterways.”
“It’s great to see the passion and wisdom of our young people during Kids Teaching Kids Week – future environmental leaders in the making.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Nepean Chris Brayne
“Point Nepean National Park is a beautiful part of Victoria and the perfect backdrop for Kids Teaching Kids Week.”
“What better way to help young people learn more about the environmental and conservation than here in such a beautiful natural landscape.”
More than 370 students from 14 schools across the Mornington Peninsula and beyond will gather for the eighth annual Kids Teaching Kids youth leadership conference at Point Nepean National Park this week.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Lily D’Ambrosio said Kids Teaching Kids Week was a fantastic opportunity for young people across Australia to learn from one another and lead change for environmental challenges, while contributing to local and national issues and concerns.
Primary and secondary schools have been preparing for months with the help of ranger mentors from Parks Victoria to present to their peers on challenges and opportunities facing culture, conservation and community.
The student led environmental conference inspires action and collective responsibility through workshops and presentations against a backdrop of the historic Quarantine Station.
The war on waste and future health of our natural resources will be put under the microscope, as will climate change, local bushfire preparedness and endangered species.
Presentations will include:
Tootgarook Primary School exploring the techniques and importance of local bushfire management and preparedness
Boneo Primary School inspiring their peers to ‘Choose to Refuse’
St Joseph’s Primary School unveiling the secrets of the Burrunan Dolphin a species unique to Port Phillip
Bittern Primary School looking at the threat to endangered species caused by habitat destruction
St Macartan’s Primary School challenging thinking around carbon impacts and climate change.
Kids Teaching Kids week is presented by Parks Victoria with support from the national Kids Teaching Kids Week organisers. The Point Nepean National Park day will also feature a series of interactive walk and talks with Park Rangers as they share their knowledge and connect the students with nature.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Kids Teaching Kids is a tangible way for kids to connect with their local environment, helping the next generation understand how global issues impact special places like our national parks and waterways.”
“It’s great to see the passion and wisdom of our young people during Kids Teaching Kids Week – future environmental leaders in the making.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Nepean Chris Brayne
“Point Nepean National Park is a beautiful part of Victoria and the perfect backdrop for Kids Teaching Kids Week.”
“What better way to help young people learn more about the environmental and conservation than here in such a beautiful natural landscape.”
The search is on for a new executive to lead Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), as the Andrews Labor Government continues its ambitious reforms to strengthen the energy safety regulator.
Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said recruitment would begin immediately to ensure a smooth transition before outgoing Director Paul Fearon’s retirement in November, particularly in the lead-up to the busy summer bushfire season.
The new appointment will be charged with continuing Energy Safe Victoria’s important work and overseeing the Government’s reforms to boost its capacity and powers.
They will also act as the Chair Delegate to oversee the establishment of the three-person ESV Commission recommended last year by the extensive Grimes Review and endorsed by the Government.
ESV has been given more resources and a mandate to better engage with the community and hold duty holders to account, which is vitally important as the industry transforms.
Auditing inspections for electrical infrastructure have tripled by increasing inspector numbers, which has also doubled ESV’s capacity to undertake gas pipeline inspections.
This position plays a vital role in preparing Victoria for the continuing effects of climate change, new and emerging technologies and a transforming energy industry.
Mr Fearon has made a significant contribution to energy safety regulation and reform during his tenure, which will reach 10 years in November.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio
“I thank Paul Fearon for the significant contribution he’s made to the energy sector, and for his efforts in leading the important reforms identified by the Grimes review.”
“Energy Safe Victoria plays a vital role in monitoring the energy sector and holding those who do the wrong thing to account.”
“We’re looking for a new leader to continue this important work building a stronger energy regulator to keep Victorians safe.”
The search is on for a new executive to lead Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), as the Andrews Labor Government continues its ambitious reforms to strengthen the energy safety regulator.
Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said recruitment would begin immediately to ensure a smooth transition before outgoing Director Paul Fearon’s retirement in November, particularly in the lead-up to the busy summer bushfire season.
The new appointment will be charged with continuing Energy Safe Victoria’s important work and overseeing the Government’s reforms to boost its capacity and powers.
They will also act as the Chair Delegate to oversee the establishment of the three-person ESV Commission recommended last year by the extensive Grimes Review and endorsed by the Government.
ESV has been given more resources and a mandate to better engage with the community and hold duty holders to account, which is vitally important as the industry transforms.
Auditing inspections for electrical infrastructure have tripled by increasing inspector numbers, which has also doubled ESV’s capacity to undertake gas pipeline inspections.
This position plays a vital role in preparing Victoria for the continuing effects of climate change, new and emerging technologies and a transforming energy industry.
Mr Fearon has made a significant contribution to energy safety regulation and reform during his tenure, which will reach 10 years in November.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio
“I thank Paul Fearon for the significant contribution he’s made to the energy sector, and for his efforts in leading the important reforms identified by the Grimes review.”
“Energy Safe Victoria plays a vital role in monitoring the energy sector and holding those who do the wrong thing to account.”
“We’re looking for a new leader to continue this important work building a stronger energy regulator to keep Victorians safe.”
More than 31,000 mountain bike riders have flocked to La Larr Ba Gauwa Park near Harcourt since the world-class facility opened in March 2018.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said the park had provided a huge economic boost to the region, with visitors spending an estimated $1.6 million locally in the first 12 months.
La Larr Ba Gauwa Park includes 34 kilometres of mountain bike trails that take advantage of the site’s stunning views and granite landscapes, located two kilometres east of Harcourt and adjoins Mount Alexander Regional Park.
A recent economic impact report found visitor numbers exceeded the initial projection of 25,000 in the first year – with $700,000 spent in Harcourt alone as part of $1.6 million contributed to the Mount Alexander economy in the Park’s first year.
More than 90 per cent of bike riders visiting La Larr Ba Gauwa live outside the Mount Alexander Region with many coming from Melbourne (40 per cent) or Bendigo (20 per cent).
The report will be provided to Mount Alexander Shire Council and the Harcourt Progress Association so they can review the data and look for ways to keep riders in Harcourt and the region for longer – creating even more economic benefits for the community.
The economic analysis used information and data from rider surveys, stakeholder interviews and car counts.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“It’s great to see so many mountain bike riders flocking to La Larr Ba Gauwa Park to test out the tracks and enjoy these new world class facilities.”
“This is a really good example of how government can work with the local community to build the infrastructure needed to showcase our environment and attract new visitors to the region.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Right across the state, we’re investing in initiatives that make regional Victoria an even better place to live, work and visit – and La Larr Ba Gauwa Park is providing local jobs as well as bringing bike riders from far and wide to the region.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“La Larr Ba Gauwa Park has always been loved by our community, so it’s no surprise mountain bike riders are loving it too.”
“With so many more visitors, the entire region gets an economic boost – putting money in the hands of cafes, restaurants, tourism and accommodation providers.”
More than 31,000 mountain bike riders have flocked to La Larr Ba Gauwa Park near Harcourt since the world-class facility opened in March 2018.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said the park had provided a huge economic boost to the region, with visitors spending an estimated $1.6 million locally in the first 12 months.
La Larr Ba Gauwa Park includes 34 kilometres of mountain bike trails that take advantage of the site’s stunning views and granite landscapes, located two kilometres east of Harcourt and adjoins Mount Alexander Regional Park.
A recent economic impact report found visitor numbers exceeded the initial projection of 25,000 in the first year – with $700,000 spent in Harcourt alone as part of $1.6 million contributed to the Mount Alexander economy in the Park’s first year.
More than 90 per cent of bike riders visiting La Larr Ba Gauwa live outside the Mount Alexander Region with many coming from Melbourne (40 per cent) or Bendigo (20 per cent).
The report will be provided to Mount Alexander Shire Council and the Harcourt Progress Association so they can review the data and look for ways to keep riders in Harcourt and the region for longer – creating even more economic benefits for the community.
The economic analysis used information and data from rider surveys, stakeholder interviews and car counts.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“It’s great to see so many mountain bike riders flocking to La Larr Ba Gauwa Park to test out the tracks and enjoy these new world class facilities.”
“This is a really good example of how government can work with the local community to build the infrastructure needed to showcase our environment and attract new visitors to the region.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Right across the state, we’re investing in initiatives that make regional Victoria an even better place to live, work and visit – and La Larr Ba Gauwa Park is providing local jobs as well as bringing bike riders from far and wide to the region.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“La Larr Ba Gauwa Park has always been loved by our community, so it’s no surprise mountain bike riders are loving it too.”
“With so many more visitors, the entire region gets an economic boost – putting money in the hands of cafes, restaurants, tourism and accommodation providers.”
Schools across the Whittlesea municipality will share in a $515 million in the single largest boost to school maintenance ever undertaken, thanks to an unprecedented investment by the Andrews Labor Government.
The investment will more than double funding for maintenance at Victoria’s state schools over the next two financial years, with more than $300 million to be invested in 2019/20 and $290 million in 2020/21.
State Members of Parliament Bronwyn Halfpenny, Colin Brooks, Danielle Green and Lily D’Ambrosio welcomed $3.73 million in funding to support 31 schools across the municipality.
The funding will enable local state schools to do essential works such as painting, replacing carpet and windows, landscaping, tree inspections and maintenance of infrastructure like septic systems and water services.
This increased investment will assist principals to get on with the job of leading Victoria’s schools, by providing more funds to maintain the state’s 36,000 school buildings, while supporting schools to cater to the 115,000 additional students who are expected to enter the education system over the next five years.
The package complements the Labor Government’s recent initiatives to support schools to manage and maintain their facilities, including the Rolling Facilities Evaluation and the rollout of maintenance plans for each school.
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $170.5 million in emergency and incident response over five years, including an extra $57.8 million to address issues such as septic system failure, termite damage, mould, roof and floor damage, and $76.4 million to respond to unforeseen incidents and events such as storms, fire or flooding.
Schools in some of the state’s highest-risk bushfire areas will also have access to more funds to ensure they are ‘bushfire ready’, thanks to $44.2 million over five years for fire preparedness activities like vegetation removal.
Quotes attributable to Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green “Sometimes the little things can make a big difference. Whether it’s a new coat of paint or replacing carpets – this investment will help local students get the most out of their education in a safe, maintained and modern school.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio “The Victorian Government is investing $515 million in our state schools to ensure students can attend a great local school and get a great education.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny
“Following on from recent maintenance evaluations, we’re investing in schools to fix those niggly repairs and make our schools safer for students.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bundoora Colin Brooks
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing this funding to ensure that every student can attend a great local primary, secondary or specialist public school by tackling maintenance issues proactively.”
Schools across the Whittlesea municipality will share in a $515 million in the single largest boost to school maintenance ever undertaken, thanks to an unprecedented investment by the Andrews Labor Government.
The investment will more than double funding for maintenance at Victoria’s state schools over the next two financial years, with more than $300 million to be invested in 2019/20 and $290 million in 2020/21.
State Members of Parliament Bronwyn Halfpenny, Colin Brooks, Danielle Green and Lily D’Ambrosio welcomed $3.73 million in funding to support 31 schools across the municipality.
The funding will enable local state schools to do essential works such as painting, replacing carpet and windows, landscaping, tree inspections and maintenance of infrastructure like septic systems and water services.
This increased investment will assist principals to get on with the job of leading Victoria’s schools, by providing more funds to maintain the state’s 36,000 school buildings, while supporting schools to cater to the 115,000 additional students who are expected to enter the education system over the next five years.
The package complements the Labor Government’s recent initiatives to support schools to manage and maintain their facilities, including the Rolling Facilities Evaluation and the rollout of maintenance plans for each school.
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $170.5 million in emergency and incident response over five years, including an extra $57.8 million to address issues such as septic system failure, termite damage, mould, roof and floor damage, and $76.4 million to respond to unforeseen incidents and events such as storms, fire or flooding.
Schools in some of the state’s highest-risk bushfire areas will also have access to more funds to ensure they are ‘bushfire ready’, thanks to $44.2 million over five years for fire preparedness activities like vegetation removal.
Quotes attributable to Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green “Sometimes the little things can make a big difference. Whether it’s a new coat of paint or replacing carpets – this investment will help local students get the most out of their education in a safe, maintained and modern school.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio “The Victorian Government is investing $515 million in our state schools to ensure students can attend a great local school and get a great education.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny
“Following on from recent maintenance evaluations, we’re investing in schools to fix those niggly repairs and make our schools safer for students.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bundoora Colin Brooks
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing this funding to ensure that every student can attend a great local primary, secondary or specialist public school by tackling maintenance issues proactively.”