Crucial infrastructure works to develop 46 hectares of industrial land in Casino has been given a multi-million dollar funding boost to entice new industries to town. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan and State Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis today announced $9,969,000 would flow from the co-funded Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund to Richmond Valley Council to provide key infrastructure, such as electricity, road access and water at its industrial precinct. Mr Hogan said the project was about creating jobs in our region. “Now more than ever, we need to be providing opportunities for growth in our community,” he said. “When finished, this will drive significant economic, social and environmental outcomes for our region.” Mr Gulaptis said the Casino Industries Activation Project would help create new job opportunities and help support local companies. “By providing the necessary lead-in infrastructure, we can help support emerging industries,” he said. “This funding will be a massive boost to employment in the region with 36 construction jobs required to upgrade the infrastructure, and the potential to attract many more full-time positions linked to new industries. “Our regional communities have been doing it tough to say the least, which is why we are backing projects that will put people back in work, retain existing jobs and stimulate local economies.” Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow said the development of industrial land was important for the local economy and the region’s growth. “This project will give Council a strong competitive advantage for companies locating to the area, in particular manufacturing businesses,” he said. “Council will do everything it can to attract various industries to set up business in the Richmond Valley. “The development of industrial land is yet another important step in building a strong Richmond Valley for the future, where people can expect to find good jobs closer to where they live.” Mr Gulaptis congratulated Richmond Valley Council on its planning initiative to improve its competitiveness. “Creating new opportunities is crucial for the survival of our towns and villages, and having projects ‘shovel ready’ means Richmond Valley Council is determine to put the local economy on a path to sustainable growth,” he said. Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis and Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan celebrate announcement of the multi-million dollar funding with Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow and General Manager Vaughan Macdonald