Member for Benalla Bill Sykes today opened a $3.5 million project that will pave the way for future growth in tourism and private sector development in Nagambie.
Representing Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan, Dr Sykes said the Nagambie Revitalisation Project had redeveloped public open space around Nagambie Lakes and linked major new private sector development with the town.
“The upgrade, involving ‘on land’ and ‘over water’ infrastructure has connected Nagambie’s main commercial precinct with the new multi-million dollar lakeside residential precinct currently under construction,” Dr Sykes said.
“A key element of the project was directing lakeside residents, holidaymakers, as well as park and lake users to Nagambie’s commercial centre through the use of a convenient and attractive pathway.
“The works covered Jacobsons Outlook, Blaney Reserve, Buckley Park and jetty and the Lakeside connectivity path.”
Minister Ryan said that by linking the town to its major tourism asset, the project would attract tourists and private sector development.
“The Nagambie Revitalisation Project was identified as a high priority in the Nagambie Growth Management Plan, which aims to create an environment that acts a catalyst for new investment in the region,” Mr Ryan said.
“The adjacent Elloura development currently underway at a cost of a $175 million over five years is likely to create 50 to 60 jobs during the construction phase as well as providing flow-on employment in the hospitality, accommodation and commercial services sectors.”
Mr Ryan said the Victorian Government, through Regional Development Victoria, provided Strathbogie Council with $2.385 million towards the Nagambie Revitalisation Project, and council contributed $100,000.
Other funding partners included Elloura developer the Lockland Group, which contributed $1 million towards public access infrastructure, and Marine Victoria ($30,000).