Jobs for drought-hit farmers and safer roads will result from a roadside clearance project backed by a $300,000 Small Town Drought Program announced today by the Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad.
The $400,000 Yarriambiack Roadside Clearance project is expected to recruit up to 50 farmers to share the equivalent of eight full-time jobs which will link with the Wimmera Region’s Rural Skills Connect initiative to train up any skill gaps.
Ms Broad said the farmers would receive certified training in using chainsaws and other equipment and in managing trees while cutting back roadside vegetation all over the shire.
“This is a timely and targeted safety project that generates off-farm income for farmers while giving them training and recognised qualifications,” Ms Broad said.
“Overhanging tree branches and other encroaching vegetation can be a hazard, particularly to heavy machinery being moved between properties during cropping and harvest seasons”.
“Under supervision by experienced council staff, farmers will clear roadside vegetation that could cause injury or property damage.”
Ms Broad said Yarriambiack Shire Council had not had the financial resources or trained staff to keep up with requests for roadside clearance work.
She said hardship caused by the drought had stretched resources throughout the shire.
“The council’s successful proposal is a practical initiative that will address a potentially serious issue while injecting confidence, enthusiasm and economic stimulus into communities across the shire,” Ms Broad said.
“While reducing these roadside hazards, the initiative will generate important off-farm income, help farming families and produce an economic spin-off to the many businesses that service the farming sector,” Ms Broad said.
The Rural Skills Connect program – a Moving Forward Update initiative - aims to use the transferable skills of the farm related rural sector to meet rural industry skill gaps and employment requirements
The grant for this project is being provided under the Small Towns Drought Program as part of the Brumby Labor Government’s Small Towns Development Fund initiative through Regional Development Victoria.
Ms Broad said the project typified fund initiatives which were making a big difference to drought-affected towns in provincial Victoria. The fund has helped develop 460 community and social infrastructure projects.