Thursday, 1 August 2024

Eastern Victoria Region

Tom McINTOSH (Eastern Victoria) (09:57): Right now in Orbost the iconic Snowy River Railway Bridge is being restored after sustained community advocacy, being backed by $3.5 million from the state government. This project will be an incredible boost to the region’s local tourism, protecting the heritage of the bridge and providing cyclists with a quality track. Thanks to the amazing volunteers who met me onsite to discuss the works and the future for stage 2 – May Leatch, Gail Wright, Leecia Angus, Claire and Garry Bailey – and thanks for the continuing advocacy of Liz Mitchell.

There is also huge investment in Orbost Regional Health. Director of clinical and aged care services Kylie Foltin showed me around the location of both the new $2 million endoscopy facility and the preparation of works for the $45 million redevelopment of Lochiel House and Waratah Lodge aged care wing – that is not to be confused with Lochiel Street Reserve, the home of the Orbost Snowy Rovers, which has recently completed a $250,000 lighting upgrade.

I dropped in up the road to see Lachlan and Luke from building company Built QA, who have partnered with Dahlsens, to see their new steel truss and frame plant that is directly supporting workers from the native timber industry, supported by a $500,000 state government timber transition investment.

I also joined a big group from the community of Lakes Entrance at the new Slipway; it is officially open. Once the old boat yard, this landmark has been brought back to life, creating a community space and economic hub which brings together local craft, agriculture and business, backed by the state government. Congrats to all involved.