By Jessica Micallef
Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters is calling for more investment into local infrastructure projects in the Macedon Ranges in this week’s Federal Budget.
Ms Chesters said projects including the Daylesford to Hanging Rock Rail Trail, Macedon Ranges Trail Project and the Bendigo Airport Expansion were key projects that deserved funding.
“Now is the time to get behind projects in Macedon that will support our growth and the economy as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
“The introduction of QantasLink flights between Bendigo and Sydney have seen strong demand and there is opportunity for more flights and bigger plans to operate out of Bendigo if the terminal building and precinct is expanded.”
Ms Chesters said the Macedon Ranges Trail Project – a 24 kilometre walking, running and cycling trail from Woodend to Riddells Creek, is projected to attract more than 62,000 visitors a year once complete, and will deliver more than $4 million to towns across the region.
“The local tourism industry is one of the hardest hit in this pandemic so it is vital that we invest in infrastructure which encourages visitors to our great region,” she said.
“This trail will pass through a range of beautiful landscapes and become a major tourism attraction for the region.
“Local businesses … will also benefit from this investment through increased visitation to the region and job creation through the building works.”
While the pandemic has forced many local sporting leagues to shorten or cancel their season, Ms Chester said providing additional funding to clubs was vital to ensure their survival.
“Many clubs have been waiting years to be a priority for basic maintenance, while others requiring significant rebuild are waiting decades as there is simply not enough funding at local and state government,” she said.
“Now is an ideal time for building repairs and upgrades.”
