Warren Blackwood community benefits from State grants - 19 March 2008
The Warren Blackwood area received more than $45,000 worth of State Government grants this week designed to support projects and events that will improve the economy and lifestyle of the area.
Member for South West Matt Benson-Lidholm presented the money to four projects in the area as part of the South West Development Commission’s regional development and events schemes.
The Natural Resources Management conference, expected to attract delegates from around the State to Bridgetown at the end of March, received $21,450, while organisers of the Pemberton Be Active Cycle Instead Classic were given $2200.
Mr Benson-Lidholm also presented a cheque for $16,500 to help market the Southern Forest Sculpture Walk near Northcliffe and $4950 towards the town’s pioneer museum.
“These represent a fantastic range of projects and events that will bring real benefits to the Warren Blackwood community,” he said.
“The Natural Resources Management Conference will raise awareness on protecting our environment in the midst of growing economic development and it is a real coup for Bridgetown to be hosting this major biannual event.
“Pemberton’s Be Active Cycle Instead Classic has become a major cycling event in the four years since its inception and is a real drawcard for the town.
“Northcliffe’s Southern Forest Sculpture Walk is a 1.2-kilometre circuit through awe-inspiring karri, jarrah and marri forests featuring permanent, specially designed artworks and is a unique cultural tourist attraction to the area.
“The Northcliffe Pioneer Museum tells the story of the group settlement of Northcliffe and is an important part of the community’s heritage.”
Mr Benson-Lidholm said the funding was provided through the South West Development Commission’s Regional Development Scheme and Events Program, which supported local projects and events that brought tangible benefits to the region.
“Since the two grant schemes began they’ve contributed almost $3.5 million in State Government funds towards improving the lifestyle and economy of the South West.
“And because the funds usually support projects driven by passionate locals, the money provided goes a long way and makes a big impact.”
For more information on the events or the grant schemes, contact the Commission’s Warren Blackwood Regional Coordinator Deanna Giumelli on 9792 2000.
Media contact:
Scott Maclean