Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today congratulated the Skipton Community
on the official opening of three Community Projects including the Linking Skipton Town Streetscape and Town Entry Design Project.
Following the 2010 and 2011 floods, Skipton residents identified three projects that would strengthen the community and encourage economic growth by driving tourism and population-growth to the area.
The Linking Skipton project has created a walking loop that connects the rail trail and
walking trail to the town’s retail centre, cafes and supermarket.
It also provides access to amenities for rail trail users and links all of the town’s primary
tourist attractions, including Mt Emu Creek and the Skipton Lake Reserve.
The Skipton Town Entry Signage project has constructed blue stone signs at all four entrances to the town featuring lazer-cut designs of a merino sheep and grain kernels. The
signage provides the town with a strong brand identity and highlights its two most important industries.
The Skipton Tree Removal and Cemetery Gates project employed local contractors and was funded by the Skipton Floods Community Recovery Fund.
Together, the three projects are expected to drive economic growth by encouraging more visitors to stop, stay and play in the town as they pass through the region by car or on
the rail trail.
The upgrades also improve the attractiveness of the town and recreation opportunities for local residents, enhancing the liveability and amenity of the area.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney:
“These Skipton Community Projects not only improve the potential for new and existing local businesses to grow and prosper, they create beautiful public spaces for the entire community to enjoy and share.”
“The Victorian Government is committed to riving economic growth in regional and rural towns through its $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund which works to build critical infrastructure, secure jobs, invest in communities and support new and emerging technology.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford:
“The Victorian Government is proud to be supporting these projects, which are true community projects.
“The Corangamite Shire Council together with local residents have identified what needs to be improved and worked together to drive change.”
Quotes attributable to Corangamite Shire Mayor, Cr Jo Beard:
“Corangamite Shire and the community of Skipton are grateful for the contribution of the State Government to help realise these township priorities.”
“It is a great demonstration of what can be achieved when we all work together to support community aspirations.”