The McGowan Government is driving economic diversification and local jobs in the Gascoyne, with over $550,000 in Regional Economic Development (RED) grants unveiled today.
The RED Grants program is a McGowan Government initiative investing $40.8 million over seven years in locally-driven projects to stimulate economic growth in the regions.
Four Gascoyne recipients will share in over $550,000 for projects that increase the capability of local industries, provide economic development opportunities and facilitate workforce accommodation developments in the region.
Shark Bay Marine Repairs and Services will use a $200,000 grant to deliver a purpose-built marine repairs workshop, shelter and retail space in Denham.
The grant will also enable the renovation of on-site accommodation that will relieve housing pressure and help attract skilled workers to the region.
The hospitality industry will benefit from a $150,000 grant to North West Short Stay Pty Ltd to help fund development of a commercial laundry operation in Exmouth, meeting a growing demand for high-quality commercial laundry services across the region.
The Shire of Upper Gascoyne will use a $100,000 grant for the subdivision of 10 currently un-serviced lots within the town of Gascoyne Junction, enabling construction of new dwellings to support industry growth.
The McGowan Government will also provide an additional $100,000 investment towards the project, acknowledging the importance of providing new residential opportunities in the region.
Carnarvon chef Valeria Lucchitto will receive $100,000 through grant funding to build a commercial kitchen and expand her existing catering business showcasing premium Gascoyne produce.
The McGowan Government, through the Gascoyne Development Commission, will also provide $14,650 to Traditional Owner Hazel Walgar to establish a pilot program of Baiyungu cultural tourism along the Ningaloo coast.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“RED Grants provide the opportunity to focus on community-led projects which boost our regional economies, create jobs and add diversity to towns.
“These four projects cover a diverse range of initiatives in the Gascoyne region, from workforce accommodation and hospitality to commercial operations.
“It’s great to see two projects that will assist to relieve workforce accommodation pressures, allowing businesses to attract seasonal and skilled workers to the Gascoyne, building a stronger and more sustainable economy.”
As stated by Mining and Pastoral Region MLC Peter Foster:
“RED grants have been providing positive impacts on the Gascoyne’s local capacity, supporting local businesses, local jobs and the long-term sustainability of our communities.
“I welcome the announcements by the Minister, in particular, those which facilitate workforce accommodation developments in the region which in turn will support industry growth.”
Successful Round 4 RED Grant recipients – Gascoyne
| Applicant | Project | Funding |
| The Trustee for Jamie Morgan Family Trust | Expansion of Shark Bay Marine Repairs and Services to include indoor work spaces and worker accommodation. | $200,000 |
| Shire Of Upper Gascoyne | Gascoyne Junction Residential Subdivision – Stage 1, Subdivision of 10 un-serviced lots within Gascoyne Junction enabling the construction of new dwellings. | $100,000 (plus $100,000 additional State Government investment) |
North West Short Stay Pty Ltd | To develop and fit out a commercial laundry in Exmouth. Providing a high-quality commercial laundry service to the wider Gascoyne region including Coral Bay and Carnarvon. | $150,000 |
| Valeria Lucchitto | To construct a purpose-built commercial kitchen in which to expand an existing catering business. | $100,000 |
| Hazel Walgar | Baiyungu Dreaming pilot cultural tag-along tours. | $14,650 (State Government funding through the Gascoyne Development Commission) |
