Big win for Renmark Paringa projects
Renmark Paringa Council has congratulated fellow recipients of the Sustainable Communities program, with significant funding announced for projects set to support industry diversification, improved healthcare services, accommodation growth and unique tourism offerings.
Council received $250,000 towards its Calperum Industrial Estate Expansion and Water Reuse Project, which will fund a feasibility study to investigate opportunities for future industrial development and more sustainable water use.
The funding is part of a broader investment in the Renmark Paringa Council area, with five other local projects also successful in securing support.
Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter said while Council welcomed the funding for its own project, he was particularly pleased to see local businesses receiving support to expand their operations and deliver significant community benefits.
“Receiving funding for our own project is a positive outcome, however we are just as, if not more, pleased to see local private enterprises receive backing for their projects,” he said.
“We are particularly pleased to see Dr James McLeod, Dr Hamish Eske and Dr Ryan Wang making such positive strides in expanding the Renmark Medical Centre.
“With our population growing, the need for more doctors and expanded medical services is increasingly important, and it is encouraging to see local practitioners investing in the future of healthcare in our community.”
The Renmark Medical Clinic received $829,000 towards its expansion, while Hotel Renmark secured $1.95 million to support its accommodation offering.
Mayor Hunter said these projects, alongside investment in new tourism experiences and local industry, demonstrated confidence in the region's future.
“The expansion of the Hotel Renmark’s accommodation offering, alongside some new and unique tourism experiences like the $775,000 funding for Pike River to develop Riverland Clearwater are exciting additions to our tourism offering.
“These projects have the potential to create opportunities, attract visitors and strengthen our local economy.”
A feasibility study into the Riverside Paringa Eco Tourist Park will also further support potential unique tourism experiences.
Mayor Hunter said $974,000 awarded to Culgoa Vineyards for an olive oil processing facility was another significant win for the region.
“As we look for opportunities to diversify our local economy and transition into new industries, investment in the infrastructure to support that growth is critical,” he said.
Renmark Paringa Council Chief Executive Officer Tony Siviour said the funding received by Council will go towards investigating the potential to expand the Calperum Industrial Estate.
“The expansion of the Industrial Estate is identified in Council’s Growth Strategy as an important opportunity to support future industrial and employment growth,” he said.
“This $250,000 investment is an important step towards unlocking potential opportunities for business, industry and local jobs.
“As more people choose to live in Renmark and the surrounding areas, it’s vital that we plan for increased employment opportunities.
“Importantly, the project will also explore opportunities to increase water reuse and reduce reliance on the River Murray, helping us plan for a more sustainable future for our community and local economy.”
Mr Siviour said the successful projects demonstrated the important role of private enterprise in driving regional development.
“It is an encouraging sign that we have businesses with the confidence to invest in our council area, expand their operations and help make Renmark Paringa an even better place to live,” he said.
“We congratulate all the successful recipients and look forward to seeing these projects progress, creating opportunities and helping shape a strong future for Renmark Paringa.”