The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says a proposal to build a new $3 million mountain bike trail near Omeo has the potential to create long-term jobs in the region.
Mr Chester is supporting East Gippsland Shire Council’s application for Federal Government funding under the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).
He visited Tasmania last year to personally inspect Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails near Derby in the state’s north-east, which is now generating $30 million for the visitor economy in the region.
“After meeting with East Gippsland Mayor Joe Rettino and local councillor Natalie O’Connell, I was convinced that the Omeo mountain bike trail project was worthy of Federal Government support,” Mr Chester said.
“This is an opportunity to build our tourism economy throughout the year and attract more visitors to the historic Omeo region, creating more jobs.
“I remain hopeful we will secure funding through the Federal Government’s regional development grant program.”
The $481.6 million BBRF supports the Australian Government’s commitment to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future.
Mr Chester said Gippsland was equal to any other region in Australia when it came to its natural attractions.
“We need to invest in those assets and build new infrastructure to encourage visitors to stay in our region longer and spend more money in our local businesses while they are here,” Mr Chester said.
“The proposed mountain bike trail at Omeo will encourage people to come to Gippsland and explore this region’s natural beauty in a different way.”
