Plans for an eight-hectare botanic garden in the small Campaspe Shire town of Girgarre are set to bloom.
Minister for Regional Development, Mary-Anne Thomas today visited Girgarre to announce an investment of almost $1.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund – Stimulus Round to support stage two of the Gargarro Regional Botanic Garden development.
“The Campaspe Shire is a stunning part of our state – this investment in Girgarre will create jobs and help make the region an even better place to live, work and visit,” the Minister said.
The second stage will include construction of the region’s first Sensory Garden which will have multiple areas to reflect the region’s landscapes and indigenous flora, alongside a welcome gateway, water feature and lookout.
The new funding is in addition to two previous grants totalling $100,000 from the Labor Government’s Stronger Regional Communities Plan, which enabled stage one of the project to proceed. This helped to develop the Green Thumbs Community Nursery, which will initially be run by volunteers.
Once completed, the full project will include eight hectares of gardens, an amphitheatre, event space and cafe. This project will be a huge benefit for the town of 560 people and create more jobs, after the Girgarre community has experienced challenges including drought and the closure of local businesses.
“Girgarre locals are justifiably proud of their town and region, and the botanic garden project will help put the area on the tourist map. We’re delighted to be able to back this important project,” said for Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes.
