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Australia's great river port experience in Echuca gets a boost

28 May 2010
DAFF10/449BJ

Joint Media Release
The Hon Tony Burke MP - Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
The Hon Anthony Albanese MP - Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, Regional Development and Local Government

The Rudd Labor Government will provide more than $5.2 million to revitalise Echuca Wharf on the Victorian side of the Murray River.

Tony Burke, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, made the announcement in Echuca today with Cr Peter Williams, Mayor of the Shire of Campaspe.

Mr Burke said that this iconic project was worth more than $14.2 million and would help secure the future of the wharf.

“It is expected to support 30 jobs during construction, as well as another 61, over the longer term, including a number of Indigenous traineeships,” Mr Burke said.

“This is about creating jobs in the local economy today while delivering lasting benefits for the community.

”And it will attract many more visitors to the Murray region for a historic river port experience through the Port of Echuca.”

The Campaspe Shire Council project is expected to include:

  • Refurbishment of mooring facilities, upgrades to walkways, streetscape works; 
  • Construction of museum spaces, viewing platforms, tourist facilities and other amenities; and
  • Improved management and protection of adjacent waterways, riverbanks and riparian area.

Anthony Albanese, Minister for Infrastructure, Regional Development and Local Government, said that Echuca Wharf was currently operating at reduced capacity which had a negative impact on the local economy and businesses in the area.

“Along with the tourism benefits, this community renewal project will also help local businesses in the precinct to grow and deliver an economic stimulus to the region.

“This funding is part of our Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, which is delivering a record $1 billion for nearly 5,000 projects across the nation.

“The Government is partnering with local government to support the economy while building community infrastructure for the future,” Mr Albanese concluded.

The funding is conditional upon the council formalising a contract with the Government and meeting relevant conditions.