OVER $46 million was announced in state government funding for the region after WA state ministers held their Regional Cabinet Meeting in Busselton on Monday.
Premier Colin Barnett said the purpose of the meeting was to look at issues which effected government across the state with a special focus on Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River.
Several announcements were made across various sectors which included the $32.1 million for Cape Naturaliste College, infrastructure, health, disability services, water and agriculture.
The major announcement was $10.5 million to redevelop the Busselton foreshore which includes a contribution of $6 million from the City of Busselton which will manage the project.
The city was also awarded $171,000 to redevelop boat trailer parking at Port Geographe and a further $33,750 went to the Department of Parks and Wildlife to undertake a study for the redesign of the Canal Rocks boat ramp.
A partnership agreement between the Department of Water, GeoCatch, City of Busselton and DPAW was made to support the Vasse Taskforce.
Water Minister Mia Davies said the bulk of funding went to GeoCatch to commence initiatives to reduce nutrients entering catchments and dairy effluent management.
“The City of Busselton also funded $175,000 to develop water management plans for the Lower Vasse River and Toby Inlet, and the retrofitting of storm water basins,” she said.
Environment Minister Albert Jacob said DPAW would use $128,000 to develop an operational plan for the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands.
Disability Services Minister Donna Faragher announced the South West Wheels program would continue its vehicle pool trial for another year to provide people living with a disability more transport options.
Ms Faragher said from July 1, the South West Wheels fleet would include 15 vehicles enabling people to travel to the doctor or other appointments and social outings.
The state government also committed $400,000 over four years to the Busselton Health Study which would partly be used to recall and remeasure participants in the baby boomer study.
Vasse MP Libby Mettam said the area was becoming the fastest growing region in the state and one of the fastest growing regions in the country.
Have your say: What do you think about the funding announcements for the region? Email emma.kirk@fairfaxmedia.com.au.
