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Minister encourages new ventures in regions

14 October 2011

Minister for Regional Development Gail Gago visited the Yorke Peninsula and Mid North region this week, looking to help build partnerships that encourage industry and community development and business expansion.

The Minister met with a range of local businesses and community groups to discuss the important issues currently affecting the region.

“The Yorke Peninsula and the Mid North continue to be major contributors to South Australia’s economy through sustainable industries, particularly its traditionally strong agriculture and tourism sectors,” the Minister said.

“These regions are ideally located between metropolitan Adelaide and significant mineral resources and agricultural activities, so the region has the potential to capitalise significantly on the range of supply chain opportunities.

“Through the $4 million Enterprise Zone Fund Upper Spencer Gulf and Outback, available over four years, communities and business can gain assistance to best position themselves to take advantage of the coming wave of exploration and mining activity in South Australia.

“The Fund is aimed at capturing the benefits of growing industries to further strengthen USG and Outback communities.”

Ms Gago travelled to Balaklava on Tuesday to meet with oaten hay exporter Balco Australia, followed by a visit to Bowman for discussions with Australian Milling Group, a company involved in the acquisition, packaging and distribution of pulses (beans, peas and lentils).

On Wednesday Ms Gago visited businesses in the Port Pirie area including metals fabricator SJ Cheesman Engineering, Total Electrical Construction as well as Laura-based Golden North Ice Cream.

Yesterday, Ms Gago toured the Yorke Peninsula where she met with Moonta-based Wahlstedt Quality Homes, Warooka-based engineering company Modra Hayes, and Yorketown solar salt producer Cheetham Salt.

“Covering industries such as metal fabrication, housing and construction and electrical installation, these businesses can potentially offer important services to support mining projects in the State’s north,” the Minister said.

Minister Gago encouraged the companies to consider applying for State Government support though our range of funding programs such as the Enterprise Zone Fund Upper Spencer Gulf and Outback and the Regional Development Infrastructure Fund, which supports innovation and development of regional businesses and communities.

For information on the funds available visit the Programs web page.