The idea is to create new jobs and opportunities so that more locals can thrive and build careers closer to home.
Minister Ros Spence has announced more than $390,000 for projects that create jobs in forestry areas.
The Future of Benalla and District project will make the region even better for art and culture, with a $63,580 grant exploring upgrades to the historically significant Benalla Migrant Camp.
The camp is an important part of Australia’s history and a draw card for local tourism.
On top of that, a $21,140 feasibility study will explore turning the Benalla Art Gallery undercroft into a street art and events space.
Further afield, The Shaping Murrindindi’s Future project received $140,000 to improve visitor experiences through three key projects – Beyond the Black Spur, Ride Marysville and the Triangle Food Network pilot.
The Triangle Food Network pilot will develop a five-acre hybrid community and market garden, bringing local growers, producers, community members, tourism operators and visitors together.
The Yarra Ranges Futures project received $167,000 to develop a proposal for a multi-species micro-abattoir, helping farmers access meat processing closer to the gate and reducing the need for long-distance transport.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the government has supported workers, businesses and communities in the state’s north-east and the Yarra Ranges with more than $52 million of investment.
“Only Labor can bring more investment into the regions – helping Victorians grow their businesses in the north-east,” she said.
For more information, visit deeca.vic.gov.au/forestry/
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