Treasurer Tim Pallas today announced the exciting first stage of the reactivation of the Goods Shed site at the Castlemaine Railway Station, with a $19,000 funding boost thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
The significant and proportionally high number of creative industry businesses in the Mount Alexander region – many of which are small businesses – will benefit from cultural and tourist activity generated by the site.
The ‘Castlemaine Goods Shed Business Case and Design Study’ project will be funded through the Labor Government’s $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund (RJIF).
The project will see the currently underutilised asset transformed into a centrally located, accessible and well-appointed creative industries and tourism hub.
It will investigate and make recommendations regarding the capacity and requirements for a functional and viable facility, and detail the infrastructure design and information technology needs of potential tenants.
Early steps for the project have involved engaging the regional creative and cultural sector to seek expressions of interest from potential tenants. Strong interest has been received.
The Rural Development stream of the Regional Infrastructure Fund aims to support rural Victoria’s businesses and communities by investing in infrastructure and planning projects that create opportunities for economic growth and enhance the appeal and liveability of rural towns and surrounding areas.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with putting regional Victorian’s first, and this project goes right to the heart of making or regions a great place to live, visit and work in.”
“There is a strong link between the arts, cultural and creative industries and tourism sector – and as we made outlined in our Creative State strategy - can contribute to an high return on investment for local communities.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo Maree Edwards
“This is a great announcement for the local Castlemaine community which has an increasing number of creative industry businesses making a name for themselves – great news for the community, and great news for jobs.”
“Creative activity brings social, cultural and economic benefits to the community, and projects like this help spread the benefits of our creative strengths to all Victorians, wherever they live.”
Quotes attributable to Chair of Castlemaine State Festival, Julie Millowick
“The Festival is delighted to be the beneficiary of this Regional Development Victoria grant, which will assist in progressing our vision to repurpose the Castlemaine Goods Shed into a leading enterprise for creative, cultural and tourism businesses in central Victoria.”
“This wonderful asset will house a core group of businesses as well as support the wider cultural community and sector through the provision of flexible facilities and services.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020