A Sunraysia Institute of TAFE proposal to create a presence at the former Department of Primary Industries’ Walpeup Research Station has been given a green light from the Victorian Government.
Agriculture Minister Joe Helper said a 12-month lease had been approved to give Sunraysia Institute of TAFE time to develop plans with the community for future use of the site.
“This is a great outcome from an extensive process, and I would like to express my appreciation for the efforts of those involved, particularly those members of the Walpeup community who have worked so hard to give the research station a fresh start,” Mr Helper said.
“The Brumby Labor Government is keen to continue working with the community to make every effort to ensure the centre has a useful and viable future in the region.
“We provided $25,000 to give the consortium of interested parties (led by Sunraysia TAFE) every opportunity to prepare a business plan for the site that would maximise benefit to the Walpeup community.
“Recognising the contribution of the Mallee Agricultural Research Foundation (MARF) to the site, we are pleased to be in a position to donate a trailing seeder bin to them. The seeder bin accompanies a seeder bar purchased by MARF with the support of Gason Agriculture Equipment and local supplier Poole & Jackson.
“We are also pleased to be seconding an experienced DPI staff member to Sunraysia TAFE to assist with the operation of the site and future planning.”
Sunraysia Institute of TAFE’s Win Scott welcomed the announcement.
“SuniTAFE is very pleased with the Minister’s decision and we look forward to working with the community and other stakeholders during 2010 to develop a plan for the future,” Ms Scott said.
“Now that a lease is secured, the SuniTAFE Project Officer will immediately begin to plan the site operations while we work to secure long-term tenure for the community and industry.”
Mr Helper said DPI was currently working with Sunraysia TAFE and partners to assess the plant and equipment remaining on site, seeking an outcome that supports the future of the site as well as being compliant with government policy.