Rutherglen economy receives significant funding boost

Published on 08 October 2021

A massive capital investment to boost Rutherglen’s Covid and bushfire impacted economy has been announced with a $5.1M grant from the Federal Government.

The funding announcement will enable the construction of the Rutherglen Wine, Walk, Cycle Trail, creating 48km of walking and cycle trails throughout the world renowned wine region.

The funding was announced today under the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

Indigo Shire Mayor Jenny O’Connor has described the funding announcement as fantastic news for Rutherglen and its surrounding communities.

“This is just brilliant news for our Shire, and in particular Rutherglen. This investment will play a critical role in boosting our local economy, helping it to recover from the impacts of COVID19 and the 2019-20 bushfires. In the longer terms, this new infrastructure will draw tourists to our region for many years to come.”

“The Rutherglen Wine, Walk, Cycle Trail provides the opportunity to expand our Shire’s offering of walking and cycle tourism and recreation. It also provides a link from the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to selected wineries, food producers, cafes and restaurants of interest which are not currently accessible via the existing trail.”

“This project complements the existing Rail Trail and will showcase our world class wineries and food producers for both locals and visitors.”

She says Council is extremely grateful to the Federal Government for recognising the huge benefits that this project will bring to the North East and for allocating the funds to make it a reality.

“I also want to acknowledge the staff who put together an outstanding business case and to all the local businesses who’ve supported this concept since its inception.”