December 21, 2016
A $3 million project to create a wetland and solve flooding issues in East Bairnsdale has been officially opened, paving the way for new development and the creation of local jobs.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the East Bairnsdale Enabling Infrastructure Improvement Project focussed on fixing drainage issues in area adjacent to Patties Foods, north of the Princes Highway.
Two wetland retarding basins were built, interlinked by a combination of landscaped drainage, outfall pipes and road culverts. A public walking path and footbridges around the wetland closest to the highway were also constructed.
“The project will relieve the flooding issues that have restricted expansion plans for Patties, which would create more jobs for the region, ” Mr Chester said.
“In addition, fixing the drainage issues in this part of the Broadlands will support the potential development of 900 residential lots.”
An independent business case analysis showed the project had the ability to unlock development, generating an additional $14 million of gross regional product.
“Patties is one of Gippsland’s largest employers with 500 staff. We must support a longterm future for Patties and create the opportunities for the business to expand,” Mr Chester said.
“The drainage project will also improve water quality in the Gippsland Lakes by reducing the amount of nutrients entering the lakes system.”
Mr Chester said the Coalition Government had committed $1 million towards the project in 2013, and was supported by the previous Coalition State Government with a $1.7 million commitment.
East Gippsland Shire Council contributed $500,000, with more than $1 million worth of support from Patties Foods and Broadlands Estate combined.
