NSW Nationals leader Dugald Saunders has slammed the government’s decision to back a multi-million-dollar super yacht service facility in Newcastle.
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley and Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp announced at the weekend that two major projects were slated for the region, supported by the Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program (REDCIP).
At least $5 million will go towards the maritime venture at the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, while a further $3.73 million is set aside to upgrade the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange (HRLX) at Singleton.
It’s understood the former steel city undertaking includes purpose-designed berths to accommodate super yachts over 30 metres, plus the expansion and enhancement of the current marina operations.
“This investment will create skilled jobs for Newcastle and the wider Hunter region, with the economic benefits flowing into our local economy,” Mr Crakanthorp said.
“It’ll also increase capacity within our port and support continued growth for Newcastle.”
But, Mr Saunders said the move highlighted the government’s complete disregard for regional NSW.
“There are serious questions around why the $5 million needed for the project is coming from the REDCIP, an initiative that is supposed to be focused on supporting the bush,” the Shadow Minister for Regional NSW stated.
“While I acknowledge some funding has been allocated to upgrade the Singleton saleyards, 10% of the entire REDCIP budget is going to something that is not located in a regional area.
“Under Labor, it is often said NSW stands for Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong, while the rest of the state is completely forgotten.
“Sadly, that’s what we’re seeing again.
“Not only has this government diminished the programs and departments that help country communities get their fair share but, now, it’s using whatever is left to funnel money back into the major cities while dozens of projects from the far west through the central west and to the North Coast have been left unfunded.
“Under the former Coalition, we established the highly-successful $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund that had a series of offshoot programs designed to ensure every LGA got access to support regardless of its size, location or who represented it on Macquarie Street.
“Labor’s $50 million replacement’s a drop in the ocean when it comes to what’s needed.
“With very little on offer, we need to make sure this program is actually supporting the regions… and I’m happy to get the Premier a map to help him find where that actually is.”
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