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Labor Government Puts Rupanyup On The Retail Map

06 July 2018

The retail precinct of Rupanyup in the grain growing belt of Wimmera will be rejuvenated through a community led initiative, backed by the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development and Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford was in Rupanyup today to announce a Labor Government contribution of $500,000 that will breathe new life into the town.

The Labor Government’s contribution to the Rupanyup Community Retail Hub will enable the community-led consortia to purchase the town’s ailing supermarket and develop a ‘mall-style’ operation in a new building, which could include a pharmacy, cafe, community spaces and office and meeting areas.

As Rupanyup and Minyip recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of the first community bank in Australia, the investment couldn’t come at a better time to revitalise the town.

The drought-affected town has been facing the loss of its only supermarket, putting it at risk of losing existing families and further population decline – which would threaten the viability of the town.

A partnership between Bendigo Bank, Yarriambiack Shire, Enterprise Rupanyup and the local community raised more than $700,000 to develop the retail hub, while investing in additional services.

The Rupanyup Market Centre is expected to generate six full-time positions and capitalise on the visitor growth of the Silo Art Trail.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford

“Rupanyup is home to Australia’s first community bank, and the same team behind its success are now driving this project, which we are so proud to support.”

“No one should ever underestimate the value of people power. The Rupanyup community spoke, we listened and now we’re delivering the revitalisation that locals deserve – because locals know best.”

“Instead of standing back and watching their town lose important services, Rupanyup has come to the Government with an innovative solution – and we’re right behind it.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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