Projects boost NSW Victorian border recovery

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the fund works with other jurisdictions to ensure cross-border communities don’t miss out on local projects like better telecommunications and digital connectivity, tourism infrastructure or providing emergency animal shelter.

“We are committed to getting regional NSW back on track, especially  our cross-border communities that carried an additional burden through  border restrictions and closures  due to COVID,” Mr Toole said.

“The latest projects will go a long way  to helping these communities thrive, attract more investment, and become more sustainable for many years to come.”

Member for Albury Justin Clancy said four projects to boost recovery on the NSW and Victorian border will be delivered thanks to $1.9 million from the fund’s COVID recovery round.

“The projects include an Animal Care Centre in Albury, broadband internet upgrades in the Murray River Shire, enhanced accessibility and safety for the Murray River Adventure Trail near Albury, and upgrades to Thompsons Beach at Kennedy Park,” Mr Clancy said.

“I know communities on the NSW and Victorian border experienced a devastating reduction in economic and social activity due to ongoing border closures and travel restrictions during last year’s COVID-19 lockdowns. The Cross-Border Commissioner’s Infrastructure Fund both recognises the need for government support and provides a valuable cash boost with these projects.”

Member of the Legislative Council Wes Fang said this would go a long way to helping communities impacted by once-in-a-century challenges.

“Cross-border communities had the additional burden of keeping the rest of the state safe from COVID-19 when travel restrictions were put in place and borders were closed,” Mr Fang said.

Albury City Mayor Kylie King highlighted the importance of the Animal Care Centre in servicing the needs of the growing community.

“This funding will enhance our exciting redevelopment plans to include building community knowledge around responsible pet ownership, providing emergency pet accommodation and much more.”

Moira Shire Council Mayor Libro Mustica said the funding will allow council to continue implementing its Thompsons Beach Master Plan and further enhance the appeal of Australia’s largest inland beach.

“The project will open up social and economic opportunities, and build upon existing tourism. I would like to thank the NSW Government for this much needed funding as well as Berrigan Shire, which  has also contributed capital to this project,” Clr Mustica said.

Daryl Betteridge, the Chairperson of Parklands Albury Wodonga, said the funding for the Murray River Adventure Trail will allow locals and visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy the trail.

“This funding has allowed us to enhance the trail to make it more accessible and provides a base for river steward volunteers to work from,” Mr Betteridge said.

For more information about the fund, go to www.regional.nsw.gov.au/our-work/ocbc.