THE Australian and New South Wales governments, in partnership with Pacific Complete, are inviting industry to attend briefings on the final 155 kilometre Woolgoolga to Ballina section of the Pacific Highway upgrade. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan is encouraging local businesses to attend industry briefings on the duplication project early next month. “I want to see this project deliver local jobs for local people,” Mr Hogan said. “The Australian Government has committed $5.64 billion toward completing the full duplication of the highway, giving local companies unique business and job opportunities. “There was a high level of interest during the first round of briefing sessions in July so further briefings have been scheduled in December. “These briefing sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the packaging strategy for the project and how businesses of all sizes can benefit. Information covered will include an outline of the upcoming procurement packages and an opportunity for business representatives to speak with members of the team.” NSW Member for Clarence and Parliamentary Secretary for the North Coast Chris Gulaptis said Woolgoolga to Ballina is the final section of the Pacific Highway upgrade. “With the entire Pacific Highway upgrade expected to open to traffic by the end of the decade, it will be vital that Pacific Complete use the knowledge and expertise of small and large businesses to meet this goal,” Mr Gulaptis said. “The Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade is one of the largest infrastructure projects in regional Australia and industry is being offered unprecedented opportunities to be involved.” The industry briefings will be held on: • Wednesday 2 December at Ballina RSL at 240 River Street in Ballina from 5.30pm to 7pm; and • Thursday 3 December at Grafton Community Centre at 59 Duke Street in Grafton from 5.30pm to 7pm. The construction of the Woolgoolga to Ballina section is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments on an 80:20 basis. Businesses interested in attending can register at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/W2B.