Regional Development

VictoriaAnnual Report

14–15

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Front and back cover images show:1. North East Food & Wine2. 2015 Regional Victoria Living Expo3. Junction Place – Wodonga4. Viplus Dairy Processing Plant5. Ravens Creek Farm6. Golden Plains Shire Council Sod Turning7. Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory8. Urban Square Twilight, Wodonga9. Marysville Vibe Hotel, Marysville

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15CONTENTS PG 1

CONTENTSHighlights 2014-15_____________________________________________4

Chief Executive Foreword_______________________________________6

Responsibilities_______________________________________________8

Profile_______________________________________________________9

Regional Programs and Recovery 9

Infrastructure Group 9

Regional Business Engagement 10

Regional Policy and Planning 10

Marketing and Promotion Group 10

RDV Regional Offices 10

Stakeholder Collaboration______________________________________11

Commonwealth Government – Regional Development Australia 11

Regional Policy Advisory Committee 12

Regional Management Forums 13

Rural Councils Victoria 13

Regional Cities Victoria 14

Working with Industry Organisations 14

Regional Strategic Planning 15

Establishing the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund______________16

Continuous Improvement in Regional Development Programs 18

Boosting Jobs and Investment__________________________________19

Industry Sector Support in the Regions 20

Boosting Jobs and Investment in each Region 21

Developing Major Infrastructure_________________________________23

Murray Dairy – Accelerating Change 23

Latrobe City Council – Gippsland Heavy Industry Park 23

Unilever Tatura Investment Project 24

Wodonga CBD Urban Renewal Initiative 24

Wodonga Logic Fatigue Management Centreand Trailer Interchange Project 24

Epic Mountain Bike Experience 25

Yea Wetlands Environmental Centre 25

Koondrook Wharf 25

Echuca Riverboat Dock Upgrades 25

Swan Hill Heartbeat of The Murray 25

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Redevelopment 26

Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Upgrade Project 26

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 CONTENTS PG 2

Ulumbarra Theatre Development 26

Longerenong College Student Residential Facilities Upgrade 26

Central Geelong Revitalisation Project 27

Geelong Gallery Redevelopment Business Case 27

Shepparton Art Museum Feasibility Study 27

Burra Foods Korumburra 27

Wangaratta Livestock Exchange Redevelopment Project 27

Ararat Arts Precinct Redevelopment Project 28

AusNet Services – Huntly Natural Gas Extension 28

Brookfield Infrastructure Group – CNG Gas Delivery Solution 28

Supporting Rural and Regional Communities______________________29

Cowes Activity Centre Plan 29

Wonthaggi Theatre Group Building Foyer 29

Reactivate Latrobe Valley 30

Paynesville Esplanade Enhancement Project 30

Community Garden Leongatha 30

Alexandra Oval Community and Recreation Centre 30

Victoria Park Infrastructure Upgrade 30

Ballarat Olympic Precinct Upgrade 31

Maude Viewing Platform 31

Hindmarsh Shire Council Economic Development Strategy 31

Mallee Bush Retreat – Stage 5 31

Warrnambool City Centre Revitalisation – Gilles Street 31

Nirranda Multipurpose Centre 32

Mount Moriac Reserve Master Plan Implementation Project 32

Great Ocean Road National Heritage Centre 32

Dunkeld Community Centre 32

Leopold Community Hub 32

Barwon South West Regional Trails Development, Managementand Promotion Project 32

Ocean Grove Park Performance Space 33

Hopwood Gardens Park Development – Echuca 33

Bendigo Botanic Gardens – Garden For The Future 33

Canterbury Park 33

Kyneton Community Park 33

Murray River Trail Infrastructure Project 34

Benalla Performing Arts and Convention Centre 34

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15CONTENTS PG 3

Wangaratta Central Business District Master Plan Project 34

Strategic Trails in the Alpine Shire 34

Yarck Community Hall Renovation 34

Foggy Mountains Bluegrass Festival 35

Mansfield Community Gathering Place Project 35

Fawcett Hall Upgrade 35

Murchison Heritage Centre Redevelopment 35

Emergency Management and Regional Recovery__________________36

2009 Victorian Bushfires 36

2010, 2011 and 2012 Floods 37

2014 Bushfires and Morwell Mine Fire 37

Resilient Community Program 38

Promoting Rural and Regional Victoria___________________________39

2014 Royal Melbourne Show 39

2015 Regional Victoria Living Expo 40

Good Move Regional Marketing Campaign 40

Future Priorities______________________________________________41

Build a Strong and Competitive Regional Victorian Economy 42

Support Job Creation 42

Strengthen Regional Communities 42

Finance_____________________________________________________43

RDV Grant Payments 44

Economic Infrastructure - Grant Announcements 62

Economic Infrastructure - Grant Payments 64

Output Targets and Performance 68

Revenue and Expenses 69

Financial Performance 70

Compliance 70

Legislation 70

Contact Information___________________________________________71

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 HIGHLIGHTS PG 4

HIGHLIGHTS 2014-15> Regional Development Victoria (RDV)

worked throughout the year to facilitate new investment, business growth and j o b creation, infrastructure development, and coordinate delivery of Victorian Government regional development policy, planning and programs.

> Helped create 2,094 jobs, generate $724 million in investment and facilitate $262 million in exports.

> Facilitated 124 major regional infrastructure projects valued at $365 million, including completion of the Junction Place central Wodonga urban renewal initiative that will generate significant employment and stimulate economic development in the city and broader region.

> Used RDV’s policy and program delivery expertise to develop the legislation, regulation and program design to establish the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund (RJIF).

> Launched the 10 public grant program streams of the RJIF in Castlemaine on 29 June 2015.

> Collaborated with diverse regional stakeholders including rural and regional community groups, industry organisations and delivered Victoria’s partnership with the Commonwealth Government’s Regional Development Australia program.

> Reviewed the effectiveness of the current regional strategic planning model, and provided findings and significant RDV research and data to the Review of Regional Economic Development and Services.

> Facilitated Regional Management Forums led by departmental Secretaries bringing together leaders from across State and local government and key regional stakeholder groups.

> Supported Rural Councils Victoria including networking for rural and regional local governments at the annual Rural Summit at Halls Gap in April 2015.

> Collaborated with Regional Cities Victoria on projects including the Regional Cities Growth Framework, which sets out growth drivers for each of Victoria’s 10 regional cities.

> Interacted directly with over 2,500 regionally based businesses to support department-wide business investment and regional job creation activities.

> Helped support internal trade readiness and relationships in the regions through activities including funding Australia China Business Council regional sessions and developing a sister-state memorandum of understanding with the Jiangsu Province in China.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15HIGHLIGHTS PG 5

> Continued to support structural adjustment and growth through place-based initiatives in the Goulburn Valley, Latrobe Valley and Greater Geelong regions.

> Supported Australia’s largest private sector rail operators, SCT Logistics, to establish an intermodal freight terminal near Wodonga as part of a $39 million investment to increase rail freight between Melbourne and Brisbane.

> Helped Luv-a-Duck in Nhill create 80 new jobs in the Wimmera, Meredith Dairy provide 30 new cheese manufacturing jobs in Meredith, and Maxitrans Australia make new technology investments at its facility in Ballarat.

> Focused on supporting local food processing initiatives in Gippsland, including an expansion by Riviera Farms at Stratford and Lindenow, and Queensland- based Australian Fresh Salads’ new investment in fresh salad growing, processing, packing and distribution in the Macalister Irrigation District that created 20 new jobs.

> Helped an export-related expansion by Hardwick’s Meat Works that created 150 new jobs.

> Backed Leda Farm Equipment’s facility relocation from NSW to Mildura, which generated 40 new jobs.

> Encouraged stronger and more sustainable regional communities by building their capacity to drive development and make the most of local investment in projects such as the $750,000 initiative by the Surf Coast Shire to develop a National Heritage Centre commemorating the history of the construction of the Great Ocean Road, and the Shire of Campaspe’s $520,000 project to redevelop Hopwood Gardens Park in the popular Port of Echuca tourist precinct.

> Attracted a record 10,156 visitors to the 2015 Regional Victoria Living Expo – a three-day event at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre that showcased the benefits of living and investing in rural and regional Victoria.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOREWORD PG 6

CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOREWORDRegional Development Victoria made another significant contribution to the resilience and growth of Victoria’s regions during a year of consolidation and change.

Together we helped create 2,094 jobs, generate $724 million in investment and facilitate $262 million in exports for rural and regional Victorians.

We achieved this outcome by working across all tiers of government in partnership with local businesses and communities to provide services and programs designed to deliver maximum, long-term benefits.

One of the most substantial tasks of the year was establishing the legislation, policy basis and program design associated with the new $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund launched on 29 June 2015.

This responsibility required RDV to draw on more than 15 years’ collective experience in policy and business development, program delivery, and project management.

The Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund is a key part of the Government’s ‘Back to Work’ strategy and it will unlock regional Victoria’s economic potential by supporting major projects, creating jobs and building stronger regional communities.

Concurrent with establishing the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, RDV facilitated 124 of the remaining major infrastructure projects supported under the former Regional Growth Fund. These projects helped attract more than $365 million into the regions throughout the year.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOREWORD PG

RDV supported broader business investment and regional job creation by working directly with over 2,500 regional businesses. We also helped implement place-based investment initiatives, including in the Goulburn Valley, Latrobe Valley and Greater Geelong region.

RDV continued to work alongside local communities and councils to help them recover from flood and fire by providing community support, targeted business assistance and infrastructure.

In addition to delivering such essential ongoing activities, 2014-15 was a year of transition and review for RDV. In early 2015 the agency joined the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources.

RDV provided significant input of data and research into the Review of Regional Economic Development and Services chaired by former Premier, John Brumby. We look forward to receiving the results of the review and working across Government and with our stakeholders to implement its recommendations in our regional development activities.

On behalf of the Victorian Government, I commend all RDV staff for making the year such a productive one. In particular, I thank former Chief Executive, Lachlan Bruce, for his highly capable leadership of RDV over the last four years.

In 2015-16, RDV will continue as the Government’s lead agency responsible for driving economic and community development across rural and regional Victoria. Together we will maintain our focus on regional industry growth, job creation and investment so every region can make the most of opportunities ahead.

James Flintoft

Acting Chief Executive, Regional Development Victoria

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 RESPONSIBILITIES PG 8

RESPONSIBILITIESRegional Development Victoria (RDV) is the Victorian Government’s lead agency in developing rural and regional Victoria.

In accordance with the Regional Development Victoria Act 2002, RDV has primary responsibility for:

> Developing integrated, regionally focused policies and programs, including implementing regional development funds to support the economic and social development of regional Victoria.

> Creating vibrant and dynamic regional communities and economies through facilitating new jobs, investments, exports, infrastructure for strategic projects and competitive businesses.

> Delivering programs and information to help grow a robust and sustainable economy and strengthen communities throughout regional Victoria.

> Developing and implementing initiatives to promote the State, to attract business and increase the population of Victoria’s regions.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15PROFILE PG 9

PROFILESince its formal inception in 2003, RDV has provided leadership, expertise and catalyst funding to help drive sustained economic and community development across rural and regional Victoria.

RDV’s work is underpinned by sound evidence-based policy and planning, including support for Victoria’s maturing community- driven regional strategic planning model. RDV delivers significant grant programs to support these policy objectives as well as undertaking active business engagement, investment attraction and facilitation. RDV facilitates projects that range from large-scale infrastructure with state-wide benefits to smaller scale projects that address specific community needs.

RDV seeks to continuously monitor and evaluate its programs and approaches to drive continuous improvement to deliver maximum benefit.

On 1 January 2015, RDV joined the new Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), in the Economic Development, Employment and Innovation division, having previously been part of the former Department of State Development, Business and Innovation.

In 2014-15, RDV operated through the following groups:

REGIONAL PROGRAMS AND RECOVERY

The Regional Programs and Recovery Group is responsible for the delivery of a range of programs and activities including the Regional Development Australia initiative in Victoria, and bushfire and flood recovery programs.This includes the operations of the Fire Recovery Unit.

INFRASTRUCTURE GROUP

The Infrastructure Group identifies, facilitates and delivers infrastructure projects that help enhance the productivity, liveability and sustainability of rural and regional Victoria.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 PROFILE PG 10

REGIONAL BUSINESS ENGAGEMENTThe Business Engagement team works with Victorian regional businesses to promote the development of sustainable industries that are growth-orientated and export focused. The team identifies opportunities for private- sector engagement and captures regional business intelligence, supporting a range of programs and services across RDV, DEDJTR and the Victorian Government to coordinate investment attraction and export facilitation.

REGIONAL POLICY AND PLANNINGThe Policy and Planning Group provides policy and strategy leadership to RDV, coordinating across government to develop ideas, knowledge, policies and programs that support the Victorian Government’s commitment to rural and regional Victoria.The group is responsible for monitoring and evaluation, governance, research and analysis and managing key strategic relationships.

MARKETING AND PROMOTION GROUPThe Marketing and Promotion Group delivers a range of activities to promote the business and lifestyle benefits of locations in rural and regional Victoria. In particular, the group is responsible for implementing the Regional Victoria Living Expo.

RDV REGIONAL OFFICESRDV manages offices across the five regions of Barwon South-West, Gippsland, Grampians, Hume and Loddon Mallee.Regional teams have strong local relationships and knowledge. They work closely with local, State and Commonwealth Government counterparts, regional businesses and communities to facilitate investment, jobs and exports.

RDV regional offices also support the Regional Development Australia Initiative, the delivery of DEDJTR’s business engagement model, and are the local point of contact for regional councils, communities and businesses seeking information about regional development programs and services.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION PG

STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION

RDV works with key stakeholders to support regional strategic planning and program delivery, and build sustained relationships across all levels of government, business and community stakeholders.Key stakeholder relationships include the following:

COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT – REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA

The Victorian Government works with the Commonwealth Government at various levels to ensure a coordinated approach to regional development, particularly through the Regional Development Australia (RDA) Initiative that supports the operation of nine RDA Committees in Victoria. These committees advise all levels of government on economic development opportunities and productivity.

The RDA model in Victoria is a partnership between the Commonwealth and State Governments. RDV Regional Directors act as Executive Officers for RDA committees, while the RDA Chairs served as members of the Victorian Regional Policy Advisory Committee (RPAC). RDAs also include local government members. These arrangements ensure that Victorian regional leaders influence and integrate the activities of all three levels of government.

RDV provides significant in-kind support and contributes funds to the RDA Initiative. In 2014-15 RDV contributed $615,000 in new funding towards the operation of the Victorian RDA Committees. The agreement and RDA Committee appointments are being renewed for 2015-16.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION PG

REGIONAL POLICY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Regional Policy Advisory Committee (RPAC) was established under legislation to provide independent advice to government on priorities in regional Victoria, and the impacts of legislation and policy decisions on rural and regional Victoria.

RPAC members in 2014-15 included:

> Ian McClelland OAM (Chairperson) - founder and former Chairperson of the Birchip Cropping Group.

> Bruce Anson - Chairperson of the Barwon South West RDA Committee and Chief Executive Officer of Warrnambool City Council.

> Stuart Benjamin - Chairperson of the Grampians RDA Committee, founding Chairman and current Board member of Ballarat Regional Tourism and Director of Elmstone Property Group.

> Mark Byatt - former Chairperson of the Hume RDA Committee and Mayor of Wodonga from 2008 to 2013.

> Jenny Dawson - former Chairperson of the Loddon Mallee RDA Committee and former Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Audit Committee of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.

> Richard Elkington - Chairperson of the Gippsland RDA Committee and member of the Executive Council of the Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

> Ross Lake OAM - General Manager of TASCO Inland, a major fuel and oil distributor based in Mildura.

> Val Lang AM - graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Program and Victorian representative for Australian Women in Agriculture.

In 2014-15, RPAC worked with RDV on its Jobs of the Future agenda to identify future employment sources to encourage stronger economic growth in regional Victoria, workforce capabilities required to support growth and the impact on regional skills and workforce development. This work determined the following four priority areas of research and advice:

Migration and settlement – identify factors that impede regional migration and help regional communities maximise economic growth and productivity gains through migration.

Encouraging the move to regional Victoria – increase awareness of factors that impede the movement of people to and between regional areas.

Skills and employability – identify issues likely to affect workforce capability and employability in regional Victoria, including the response capacity of regional industry and business.

Higher education and business – identify ways higher education institutions contribute to regional economic development, including their role supporting business start-ups, and small to medium enterprise development.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION PG

REGIONAL MANAGEMENT FORUMS

Regional Management Forums (RMF) facilitate regular collaboration across the three tiers of government within the regions. Supported by RDV, the forums help strengthen understanding and relationships, integrate state and regional planning and delivery, and identify regional priorities in alignment with regional strategic plans.

Local representation on each RMF ensures a deeper, consistent understanding and connection between city-based public sector leaders and regional issues and leaders.

RMFs met regularly during 2014-15 in Barwon South West, Hume, Gippsland, Grampians and Loddon Mallee to consider a wide range of economic, social and environmental issues affecting local communities and the regions. Each RMF nominated priority issues for action and coordination across multiple departments and government levels.

RURAL COUNCILS VICTORIA

In 2014-15 RDV continued supporting the networked rural councils program, which included funding Rural Councils Victoria. Auspiced by the Municipal Association of Victoria, Rural Councils Victoria is the group of 38 rural councils responsible for 79 per cent of Victoria’s land area. It provides a shared voice for rural councils, and advice to the State and Commonwealth Governments on issues affecting country communities, and supports rural councils to collaborate on projects to stimulate growth and economic development.

RDV supported Rural Councils Victoria’s major networking opportunities for rural local governments, including mayors, CEOs and councillor forums in October 2014 and May 2015, and the annual Rural Summit at Halls Gap in April 2015.

The networked rural councils program delivered skills training and capacity-building through the six events of the Spring Tour in October 2014, a rural migration tool and the first stage of a project that aims to improve rural council sustainability through self- assessment and analysis, better service delivery, shared services and collaboration, and greater asset and financial management.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15

Regional City ProfileGreater Geelong

Mildura A key logistics hub with a diverse industry base connecting western Victoria with international markets

Local Government Area: City of Greater Geelong

Shepparton WodongaWangaratta Neighbouring Local Government Areas:Horsham Bendigo Wyndham, Queenscliff, Surf Coast, Golden VICTORIA MooraboolPlains,

Ballarat 150 Kilometres Population: 224,926Melbourne (2014)

GeelongWarrnambool

Latrobe FacilitiesGeelong As the second largest city in Victoria, Geelong is

home to world class facilities. All residents

have access to quality primary andGeelong is ideally located on Port Philip Bay and at the gateway secondary schooling options including the prestigious Geelongto the famous Great Ocean Road. Grammar. The city also offers a range of

pathways to higher education via the Gordon

Regional City ProfileGreater Shepparto

Mildura An important city in ‘Australia’s Foodstrong fruit and dairy industriesBowl’ with

Shepparton WodongaHorsham Bendigo Wangaratta Local Government Area: GrCity Council eater SheppartonVICTORIA

Ballarat Neighbouring Local Go150 Kilometres Campaspe, Moir vernment Areas:Melbourne a, StrathbogieBenalla,Geelong

Warrnambool Population: 63,269 (2014)Latrobe

FacilitiesGreater Shepparton GreaterShepparton is major servicGreater Shepparton is at the heart of Victoria and is home to a

e centre for central northern Australia’, producing high quality

the ‘food bowl of have access to quality range of quality facilities. All

residents agricultural goods. Situated on

fruit and vegetables and The city also offers primary and secondary schooling

options. Shepparton has the ideal the banks of the Goulburn River, Latrobe Univer

a range of pathways to

higher education production. Shepparton

climate and environment for foodsity and Goulburn

Ovens Institute of TAFE. via contributing to a very

has a diverse and vibrant community The Greater Shepparton region strong economy and cultural scene. services including a public

is serviced by extensive health

Greater Shepparton is the fifth-largesHealth as well as Sheppart

hospital provided by Goulburn Valley In terms of population this encompas

t city in regional Victoria. on Private Hospital.

Regional City ProfileWodonga

Mildura Thegatewayto Victmajorlogistichub, oriaand NSW,

Wodonga manufacturingc stocksellingandfood isa

entrebetweenandmetal Melbourneand SydneyShepparton Wodonga Local GoHorsham Bendigo Wangaratta vernment Area: Neighbouring Local

Cityof WodongaBallarat

VICTORIA Towong, Albury Government Ar150 Kilometres

(NSW) eas: Indigo,Geelong Melbourne Population: 39,664Warrnambool (2014) (104,609 Albury-WFacilities odonga)

Wodonga LatrobeOn the southern banksOn the southern banks gateway to Victoria of the Murray River,gateway to Victoria and

of the Murray River, Wregional Victoria in

and NSW. It is the sev Wodonga is the regional Victoria NSW. It is the sev

odonga is theWodonga terms of population. enth-largest city in

Wodongain terms of population. enth-largest city in is located 320the Victoria-New South

kilometres north-easthe Vict is located 320 kilometr Murr Wal t of

Melbourne Murray oria-New South Wales

es north-east of Melbourneay River

from its twin es border and separat on

River from its twin border and separated onl on Situated on the

city, y by theAlbury. ed onl

Situated on thecity, Albury. y by the rail Hume F

Regional City ProfileWarrnamboolMildura A key logistics hub

western Victoria with a diverse industry base

connecting with international markets

Shepparton WodongaHorsham Bendigo Wangaratta Local Government Area: City of WNeighbouring Local

arrnamboolVICTORIA Government Areas: MoyneBallarat Population:150 Kilometres 33,501 (2014)Melbourne

GeelongWarrnambool

Latrobe

Warrnambool FacilitiesWarrnambool is a majorWarrnambool is situated on the Surf Victoria and home

service centre for south western kilometres south-west ofCoast of Victoria, 260 have access

to a range of quality facilities. All

residents city in regional Victoria in

Melbourne, and is the eighth-largestcity

to quality primary and secondary schooling region’s main servic terms of

population. The city is theThe also offers a range of pathwaysoptions.

and education. e centre for retail, business services,

South West TAFE and Deakin Univ to higher education via

health to industry to improve emplo ersity, both with strong linksyment options of graduatLocated along the Great Ocean Road, W The broader Warrnambool

es. a major tourist hub. Warrnambool’s

arrnambool is also services including region is serviced by extensiveservices and amenity features attr

diverse housing stock, Hospital and Southwest Healthcare’s Warrnambool health

young people to inner urban centr act a range of new residents:the St John of God Hospital.Base developments, mature families

e, young families to new Warrnambool is connected toolder people to established

to the more rural areas and services allowing commut Melbourne via daily V-

Line areas. three and half hours. ers to arrive at Southern

Cross inNew greenfield opportunities to the north-eas

Regional City ProfileHorshamMildura A picturesque, vibrant and diverseregion, renowned for its local arts

city in the Grampians enabler of the region’s agricultur community and key al industryShepparton Wodonga

Horsham Bendigo Wangaratta Local Government Area: Rural CityNeighbouring of Horsham

VICTORIA Northern Local Government Areas: HindBallarat Grampians, West Wimmer150 Kilometres P a, YarriambiacMelbourne opulation: 20,375Geelong (2014)

WarrnamboolLatrobe FacilitiesHorsham Horsham is strategically

Wimmera and Henty located at the junction of the

WesHorsham Rural City is a vibrant, diverseHighways. The Melbourne-Adelaide 300 kilometres north-west of

community situated railway line, which passes through HorGrampians National Park. It

Melbourne and north of the Wimmera Intermodal Freight Terminalsham and has

the Wimmera region of Vict is located in the heart of the larger East-West corridor

at Dooen, is part of in the urban area of

oria and nearly 75% of residents live and Adelaide-Perth lines. that includes the Sydney-

Adelaid Horsham. passenger services. The railway line also

provides limit servicThe Horsham aerodrome

Located approximately halfway between e centre for the is the primaremergency air tr

region, providing for business, localAdelaide, Horsham is a vital service c Melbourne and

ansport needs.and Southern Mallee region. The city entre for the Wimmeraservices in health, education, ret provides excellent The Intermodal Freight Terminal hasentertainment, the arts, resear

ail, business, leisure, sport, 20,000 containers per annum and capacity in excess

of Overch and housing. for grain handling and export

provides a central location not

the next 20 years Horsham is expected ports. Horsham Rural City as well as improved

access toable population growth, setting it apart to experience plan to guide further

Council has a precinct developme investments around the terminal.municipalities in the Wimmera. It is also

from otherfor the thousands of people that visit

the key service centre Federation University and LongerenongMount Arapiles and the Grampians the nearby attractions of tertiary and vocational education pr

College are the main

Regional City Profile

MilduraA producer of quality Victorian food and agriculture and a

Mildura strategically important regional service centre for North West Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales

Local Government Area: Rural City of MilduraShepparton Wodonga Neighbouring Local GovernmentWangaratta Buloke, Yarriambiack, Areas:

Swan Hill,Horsham Bendigo Hindmarsh, West Wimmera VICTORIA Population: 60,281 (2014)

Ballarat 150 KilometresMelbourne

Geelong FacilitiesWarrnambool Mildura connects Victoria, South AustraliaLatrobeWales by road, rail and air

and New South

vital to the Sunr. The

Mildura Airport is strategicallyVictoria

aysia region. It is the busiest regional airport inMildura for passenger services with the number of passengersdoubling over the last decade.Mildura is an oasis on the Murray River in north west Victoria.Located on the border of New South Wales and South Australia,

Stage One of Mildura’s Riverfront Redevelopment will connect the Mildura region is 550 kilometres north-west of Melbourne

the river to Mildura’s CBD via a pedestrian promenade and and 400 kilometres north-east of Adelaide. Mildura is thereinvigorate a 1.2 km stretch of parklands and facilities. This is largest city in north west Victoria and strategically vital to what

expected to be completed by September 2015.is an important agricultural area. Latrobe University and SuniTAFE are the mainvocational education providers in

tertiary and

The city is a significant service centre for north west Victoria Hospit Mildura. The Mildura Base as well as parts of South Australia and New South Wales, al is a 146 bed tertiary teaching hospital providing a delivering transport and warehousing services, professional

Regional City ProfileLatrobe

Mildura A beautiful, resource-rich city that is home to Victoria’s major electricity generators and a growing aerospace manufacturing sector

Local Government Area: Latrobe CityShepparton

WodongaWangaratta Neighbouring Local Government Areas:Horsham Bendigo South Gippsland, Wellington

Baw BaVICTORIA

Ballarat 150 Kilometres Population: 75,706 (2014)Melbourne

GeelongWarrnambool Facilities

Latrobe Latrobe is located on the Princes Freeway and has connectionLatrobe City Council to the State rail network, both V/Line and rail freight. The Latrobe Regional Airport is home to state emergencyKnown for its natural beauty the cities, that are part of Latrobe and medical response facilities, a commercial

aviationCity Council, are situated in the centre of the Latrobe Valley in manufacturing industry and provides private community

Gippsland. Comprising four major urban centres: Churchill, transport and recreation and tourism services to the region.Moe/Newborough, Morwell and Traralgon, Latrobe is thefourth-largest city in regional Victoria by population.Federation University is the main tertiary and

vocational education provider in Latrobe. The Latrobe Regional Hospital

Located approximately 150 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, is a 261 bed teaching hospital and provides servicLatrobe City is a major service centre for the Gippsland region, areas of aged care, cancer care, electives in

therehabilitation and mental

e surgery, maternity,particularly in the provision of retail, entertainment, education health.and health services.The Latrobe region is a resource rich area with abundant

Employmentforest, rich agricultural land and large brown coal and water Electricity related industries are the region’resources. Latrobe’s regional economy is underpinned by Latrobe’s role as a key hub for

s largest exporter

generation and papercoal extraction, electricityminerals and the energy sector due to its large coal reserves. products manufacturing isits major export industries. The majorityreflected in

Latrobe’s four major power generators produce approximately landof Latrobe’s industrial 90% of Victoria’s electricity. The additional industries including is located south of the Princes Freeway in Morwell,timber processing, paper product manufacturing, agribusiness,

containing the city’s largest available supply of industrial land post-secondary education, tourism and the provision of ready for development.

RegiGr

Mildura A thriving and productive city with connection to China

Local Govern

NeighbourinWodonga Campaspe, Mount

Shepparton WangarattaHorsham Bendigo

Population:VICTORIA

Ballarat 150 Kilometres

Melbourne FacilitiesGeelong The city is connec

Warrnambool Latrobe high-quality roadkey beneficiaries

Bendigo to remove major

untangling metrBendigo is one of regional Victoria’s most progressive and through Melbourn contemporary cities and is located in the heart of the Goldfields foundations for region. It is the principal service centre for the Loddon Mallee needs of Victoria’South region and the city’s key industries include mining andfinancial services. Latrobe University

and vocational educSituated 150 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, it is the third- home to the larges most populous city in regional Victoria and an important city for The Bendigo Hosp the central Victorian economy.

hospital, incorporBendigo is a major tourist city in Victoria, with a trove of goldsolutions. The ne rush era architecture and numerous cultural festivals, including day beds, 20 oper those celebrating Bendigo’s large Chinese community, such as 80 bed mental health

the annual Chinese New Year celebrations. Industry anBendigo comprises suburban communities based aroundkey transport corridors. Bendigo has established itself as a Bendigo is

STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION PG 14

REGIONAL CITIES VICTORIA

RDV also consulted and collaborated with Regional Cities Victoria, the self-funded group of Victoria’s 10 regional cities working to improve liveability, population growth and economic investment.

Regional Cities Victoria is represented by mayors and CEOs from Ballarat, Greater Bendigo, Greater Geelong, Horsham, Latrobe, Mildura, Greater Shepparton, Wangaratta, Warrnambool and Wodonga. These cities contain nearly half of regional Victoria’s population.

RDV collaborated with Regional Cities Victoria on a number of projects including the Regional Cities Growth Framework, which sets out distinct growth drivers for each of the cities. The framework was developed using evidence established by RDV over many years. It contains a diagnostic tool for councils to collect data and information that will help them plan for future growth and prioritise investment.

WORKING WITH INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS

RDV works with and sponsors a number of key peak bodies and organisations to encourage growth and development in regional Victoria. These include Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI), the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) and the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA). For example, RDV continued contributing to IPAA Victoria’s regional partner program and was represented on the IPAA Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat Advisory Committees. Other sponsorship arrangements during the year included the 2014 Regional Achievement and Community Awards to encourage people to move into rural and regional Victoria.

onal City Profileeater Bendigo

a unique historicalment Area: City of Greater Bendigog Local Government Areas:

Loddon, Alexander, Strathbogie, Mitchell

106,971 (2014)

ted to Melbourne and other regions byand rail infrastructure. Bendigo is

one of the of the Regional Rail Link, which is designed bottlenecks in Victoria’s rail network by opolitan and regional tracks as they travel

e’s west. Regional Rail Link will lay the future expansion of the rail network to meet thes growing population.

and Bendigo TAFE are the main tertiary ation providers in Bendigo. The city is also t regional hospital development in Victoria.ital Project will deliver a world class regional ating the latest design and technologyw facilities include 372 inpatient beds, 72 same ating theatres, a regional cancer center and an

facility, among others.

d Infrastructureto 7,700 businesses. The last decade

has seen in the finance and insurance sector, but the care and manufacturing businesses are the

yers. Bendigo is also the headquarters for the aide Bank, which is now a top 70 ASX-listed loys approximately 1,000 people locally across anches and two community bank branches.esses include Rural Finance

Corporation, ring, Parmalat, Hazeldene’s Chickens, Latrobe

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15University and Bendigo TAFE.orkforce of around 46,000 people and in the five– 2013, there was strong employment

growth sectors: transport, postal and warehousing;

ies forestry and mining; electricity, gas, water es; and accommodation and food services.

and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION PG 15

REGIONAL STRATEGIC PLANNING

In August and September 2014, RDV undertook a qualitative review to better understand regional stakeholder perceptions of the regional strategic planning (RSP) model’s operation and achievements to date.

Supported by Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development research and developed by the Victorian Government, the RSP model enables regional interests to come together to identify and leverage their comparative advantages, including place- based policies that focus on region-specific challenges and opportunities.

Since the model’s inception, RDV has enabled regional strategic planning activities, and provided evidence and advice to improve a range of planning measures, such as regional city profiles.

As part of the 2014 RSP review, RDV consulted various stakeholders including local government networks RDA chairs and the executive officers for the RSP committees for Geelong, Gippsland and Ballarat. Responses showed that RSP committees contribute to the model’s maturation through activities including:

> developing tools for more effective analysis of regional priority projects;

> advocating for fewer priority projects;

> amalgamating sub-regional plans into a single plan; and

> implementing new governance structures.

Findings of the RSP review have since informed the Review of Regional Economic Development and Services by an independent External Advisory Board chaired by former Premier, John Brumby.

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ESTABLISHING THE REGIONAL JOBS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDThe $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund (RJIF) is a key economic development fund to be established under Back to Work – the Victorian Government’s broader economic development strategy.Operational from 1 July 2015, the RJIF addresses key challenges and opportunities to unlock regional Victoria’s economic potential by supporting major projects, creating jobs and building stronger regional communities. RJIF design evolved from RDV’s experience of working closely with regional businesses, organisations and communities, in partnership with other parts of government, to deliver regional development programs.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15ESTABLISHING THE REGIONAL JOBS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUND PG 17

In May 2015, legislation was introduced to the Victorian Parliament to consolidate Victoria’s regional development legislation to establish the RJIF. The Regional Development Victoria Amendment (Jobs and Infrastructure) Act 2015 came into effect on 1 July 2015.The legislation simplifies the framework for government support and investment in regional development into a single piece of legislation – the Regional Development Victoria Act 2002. It confirms RDV as the lead agency for economic and community development in rural and regional Victoria, and enables a Regional Development Advisory Committee to be established.

Program design and guidelines for the RJIF were developed to align with government policy directions. The program design took into account research on regional economic growth drivers, audits and evaluations of regional development funds, extensive learning in the design and delivery of regional development funds, and submissions to and early feedback from the Regional Economic Development and Services Review.

Acting Premier, James Merlino, joined the Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford, to officially launch the RJIF at the Castlemaine Old Market Building on 29 June 2015, with local MP Maree Edwards as Master of Ceremonies.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15ESTABLISHING THE REGIONAL JOBS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUND PG 18

The RJIF comprises the $250 million Regional Infrastructure Fund, $200 million Regional Jobs Fund, and $50 million Stronger Region Communities Plan. Under these three programs are the following 10 public grant program streams.

Regional Jobs Fund

1. Employment Precincts2. Innovation and Productivity3. Investment Attraction4. Market Access

Regional Infrastructure Fund

5. Enabling Infrastructure6. Productive and Liveable

Cities and Centres7. Rural Development8. Visitor Economy

Stronger Regional Communities Plan

9. Community Capacity Building 10.Population Attraction

Public grant application guidelines help potential applicants understand what RJIF programs aim to achieve, funding eligibility, and the application and assessment process. RDV regional offices are the key contacts for potential applicants to discuss projects and seek advice on RJIF and other government funding opportunities, services and expertise.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT IN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

During the year, RDV continued significant monitoring and evaluation of the Regional Growth Fund, including commissioning and conducting evaluations and audits at a project, program and fund level. This work included an independent pre-performance audit of the Regional Growth Fund. In 2015, RDV worked with the Victorian Auditor- General’s (VAGO) office to finalise, scope and undertake a key phase of a VAGO performance audit of the Regional Growth Fund. This audit is due to report in the first quarter of 2015-16.

RDV incorporated learning into a new monitoring and evaluation framework for the RJIF to improve longer-term assessment of outcomes and outputs.

BOOSTIN

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BOOSTING JOBS AND INVESTMENT

In 2014-15, RDV worked with business and industry throughout rural and regional Victoria to deliver information, services and programs designed to boost business growth, increase employment and access new market opportunities.

Working across DEDJTR, RDV helped implement a focused business engagement model, investment attraction and facilitation activities, and promote trade fairs and inward buyer mission opportunities to regionally- based businesses.

These included International Food and Beverage Trade Week, programs to support manufacturing growth and business network development, and specific initiatives for small business, such as expanding the Small Business Festival into new locations in regional Victoria for the first time.

The department recorded direct interactions with over 2,500 businesses in regional Victoria, collecting business intelligence, and advocating on regional business issues within government. Advocacy effectiveness is based on building strong relationships, gathering and analysing information and working at the firm level to resolve issues and drive new investment, jobs and exports. This work contributed to the department’s Budget Paper 3 Outcomes for 2014-15.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15BOOSTING JOBS AND INVESTMENT PG 20

product and access to China customs trade information.

INDUSTRY SECTOR SUPPORT IN THE REGIONS

As well as working directly with individual regionally-based businesses, RDV provided broader sector support through key industry organisations and knowledge-sharing initiatives. In 2014-15, these included involvement in implementing the Australia China Business Council Project and RDV’s ongoing relationship with Jiangsu in China.

Australia China Business Council Project

In 2014-15, the Victorian division of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC) received $250,000 from RDV to implement its Growing Business Opportunities in China project. The project aimed to improve export readiness of rural and regional Victorian businesses to take advantage of new market opportunities generated by the China Australia Free Trade Agreement.

ACBC arranged 113 interviews for Victorian regional businesses (identified by RDV regional offices and local councils) so they could discuss their experience of doing business in China. Outcomes provided greater insight into Victorian business trade relationships with China across sectors including dairy, wine, horticulture, grains, meat, livestock and genetics, processed food, stock feeds and services.

ACBC then held nine Growing Business Opportunities in China knowledge-sharing forums in rural and regional Victoria for approximately 350 attendees to help regionally-based businesses identify new market opportunities in China. Forum outcomes included a range of value-adding strategies such as varying product price entry points, prominent ports of entry by

Victoria-Jiangsu Regional City Alliance

On 29 July 2014 the Premier of Victoria launched the Victoria-Jiangsu Regional City Alliance to strengthen ties between regional cities in Victoria and Jiangsu Province in China.

Initiating the alliance was part of Victoria- Jiangsu commemorations marking the 35th anniversary of Victoria’s sister-state relationship with Jiangsu. RDV hosted the Vice Governor of Jiangsu Province, Mr Shi Heping, and other delegates to showcase Victoria’s 10 regional cities. Regional mayors, CEOs and business leaders also welcomed the delegation and shared the trade strengths of their regions.

The expanded relationship between Victoria and Jiangsu will affirm connections between regional cities through mutual visits at a municipal level, economic and trade exchanges, and forums and exhibitions that highlight industry sectors and areas of competitive advantage.

Delegation visits to Geelong and Ballarat incorporated a formal welcome luncheon hosted by Enterprise Geelong, a tour of Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus and a mayoral reception at Sovereign Hill, as well as brief tours of both cities.

product and access to China customs trade information.

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BOOSTING JOBS AND INVESTMENT IN EACH REGION

The following are examples of key place- based initiatives and business engagement projects undertaken in each of regional Victoria’s five administrative areas.

Hume region

In February 2015 the Victorian Government announced that one of Australia’s largest private sector rail operators, Altona-based SCT Logistics, would invest in an intermodal freight terminal south of Wodonga, as part of a $39 million investment to increase rail freight along the Melbourne-Brisbane corridor. Investment attraction and facilitation assistance resulted in Wodonga being chosen as the site for a greenfield development along this corridor, which will generate 118 new jobs in the Wodonga region once it is complete.

The Victorian Government helped Unilever Australia expand its facility in Tatura, with improved electricity infrastructure to support new investment, and provided water infrastructure assistance to Murray Goulburn as part of the expansion of the company’s Cobram plant to support infant formula and cheese production and exports.

The Victorian Government also supported new investment and job creation opportunities in the Goulburn Valley region, including by a range of small fruit growers expanding their fruit packing and export facilities to access new market opportunities. Larger businesses helped as part of this initiative included Ryan Meats in Nathalia and Pactum Dairy Group in Shepparton.Both export focused projects created new regional jobs.

Barwon South West region

Place-based investment in the Barwon South West region included various projects funded by an arrangement between the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments. These included a new stockfeed mill by Ridley Corporation at Lara that created 20 new jobs and Cotton On’s global headquarters expansion in Geelong that created 300 new jobs. They also included Quickstep Holdings’ new export-focused automotive composites manufacturing division in Geelong that created 30 new jobs, and a $22 million export-related expansion by the Australian Lamb Company in Colac that will create 125 new jobs.

The joint arrangement also helped connect natural gas to supply significant new investment in timber processing by AKD Softwoods in Colac, support Midfield Meats’ proposed milk processing plant in Warrnambool, Thornton Engineering’s expansion strategy that generated new investment and 50 new jobs in Geelong, and investment in the Great Ocean Road Choclaterie and Ice Creamery that, when complete, will create 57 new tourism and hospitality jobs in the Surf Coast Shire near Torquay.

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Grampians region

In 2015, RES Australia announced that its Ararat windfarm would proceed after an agreement to supply wind power to the ACT Government. The Victorian Government worked with RES Australia to resolve a range of planning and environmental issues associated with the project. Other new investment in the region included a $28 million expansion by Luv-a-Duck in Nhill that created 80 new jobs in the Wimmera, Meredith Dairy that generated 30 new cheese manufacturing jobs in Meredith, and new technology investments by Maxitrans Australia in Ballarat and TMR Feed Solutions in Horsham.

Gippsland region

Placed-based investment supported in Gippsland during 2014-15 was heavily focused on local food processing. It included expansion by Riviera Farms at Stratford and Lindenow, and Queensland-based Australian Fresh Salads’ new investment in fresh salad growing, processing, packing and distribution in the Macalister Irrigation District that created 20 new jobs. Support was also provided for ViPlus Dairy’s second stage of re-established dairy processing operations at Toora in South Gippsland. Other supported projects included Spectrum Sales’ new outbound call centre in Morwell, packaging manufacturing by Flowercow in Traralgon and transport equipment manufacturing by Custom Transport Equipment in Drouin. All generated new jobs in the region.

Loddon Mallee region

Support for new investment in the region included export-related expansion by Hardwick’s Meat Works that created 150 new jobs, and help relocating Leda Farm Equipment’s combined manufacturing and sales operation from NSW to Mildura, creating 40 new jobs. RDV also worked with the Central Goldfields Shire to encourage Melbourne-based Edyln Foods to establish a food processing operation in Maryborough and generate 14 new local jobs, and Mortlock Hydroponics to add a new cherry tomato production facility, creating 25 new jobs in the Carisbrook area.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 OR INFRASTRUCTURE PG DEVELOPING MAJ

DEVELOPING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTUREThroughout the year, RDV facilitated strategic infrastructure investment to strengthen regional economies, encourage jobs growth, attract new businesses and boost regional services in the final year of Regional Growth Fund programs.In 2014-15, RDV helped attract $365.044 million for 124 regional infrastructure projects supported in the final year of the Regional Growth Fund. Examples of these projects follow.

MURRAY DAIRY – ACCELERATING CHANGE

In November 2014, the Victorian Government announced joint Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding of $1.46 million for a project that will boost dairy farming in the Murray Darling region. For all Victorian Government funding contributions to Murray Darling projects, see page 63.

The $2.9 million Accelerating Change project aims to create 100 full-time jobs, increase ‘home grown’ pasture by 25 per cent, improve irrigation efficiency and reduce the cost base of dairy farming businesses with a view to boosting overall profitability. Two leading ‘partner farms’ were selected by Murray Dairy to demonstrate the benefits of continuing investment in feed practices, farming systems and growth of pastures. Research and technology will be applied directly to the two farms and tested on 15 satellite farms, which will help monitor and analyse the technology. Results will then be shared with 380 farmers in the Murray Darling region for further discussion and analysis.

LATROBE CITY COUNCIL – GIPPSLAND HEAVY INDUSTRY PARK

Announced in August 2014, the $5 million Gippsland Heavy Industry Park Project aims to drive industry development and help grow the local economy with the help of $2.5 million from the Victorian Government. The three-stage project involves reconstructing road pavement and drainage along access roads, site drainage upgrades, and new water treatment infrastructure. Zoned as Industrial 2, the Gippsland Heavy Industry Park represents a key future employment zone for Latrobe City Council. A demand analysis for the site indicates the precinct could employ up to 470 people in addition to the 200 currently employed by three existing businesses. By improving the quality and capacity of the site, the project will enable the development of 28 hectares of vacant land as well as encourage the existing businesses to expand.

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UNILEVER TATURA INVESTMENT PROJECT

Tatura is the only facility within Unilever’s Australian portfolio capable of producing ready- to-drink products for the Australian market, specifically Lipton Iced Tea. In November 2014, the Victorian Government announced a grant of $879,930 to Unilever Australia Trading Limited for the Unilever Tatura Investment Project that is expected to secure 21 jobs associated with iced tea production. The $14.2 million project involves installing a high voltage kiosk and two 2,000kVA transformers. This power supply upgrade will enable the installation of a new productionfacility for blowing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles for Lipton Iced Tea and create site expansion opportunities. The new blow filling line introduces new energy-reducing technology that will cut production costs.

WODONGA CBD URBAN RENEWAL INITIATIVE

Work relating to RDV’s investment in the Junction Place urban renewal initiative to revitalise the Wodonga’s central business area (CBA) was completed in May 2015, with intention to generate employment, stimulate economic development, and deliver associated social and environmental benefits. This major collaborative project incorporated a redevelopment of surplus railway land in the heart of Wodonga’s CBA. Places Victoria is overseeing Junction Place, regional Australia’s largest urban renewal project, bringing new life to the former railway site.

In partnership with Wodonga City Council, Places Victoria is delivering the enabling road infrastructure required prepare land parcels for development by private investors/developers. RDV contributed $3 million to the project, which included realigning Elgin Boulevard, the main east-west road connection for the CBA.

It also involved constructing Church Street between South Street and the realigned Elgin Boulevard. This new street provides a shared pedestrian/vehicle link between the new Junction Square and Promenade Link open space areas, which is where most future economic activity is planned.

One of the key components of the project was constructing the spacious Junction Square – the principal ‘meeting place’ for the Wodonga CBA and located at the major intersection of Elgin Boulevard and High Street. Junction Square opens up the historic Goods Shed and Station Building precinct from High Street and includes a new culinary precinct – now the hub of Wodonga’s annual food and wine festival.The overall redevelopment of Junction Place will also create a number of visually appealing open space settings to attract visitors, along with public spaces for events, markets and other community activities.

WODONGA LOGIC FATIGUE MANAGEMENT CENTRE AND TRAILER INTERCHANGE PROJECT

A new $16.1 million freight and truck-servicing hub established in Barnawartha has created a significant number of jobs on site, increased transport efficiency and safety along the busy Hume corridor between Sydney and Melbourne, and reduced the potential for driver fatigue- related accidents on the Hume Freeway.Supported by $5.64 million from the Victorian Government, including $1.64 million from RDV, the Wodonga Logic Fatigue Management and Trailer Interchange Project features three integrated facilities – a service centre, fatigue management centre for truck drivers needing rest periods during driving shifts, and a trailer interchange that enables freight operators to switch trailer combinations more easily.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 DEVELOPING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PG

EPIC MOUNTAIN BIKE EXPERIENCE

A new $750,000, 40.4km cross-country mountain bike trail represents an exciting new addition to Victorian High Country attractions to further establish the area as a year-round tourism destination.Opened in December 2014, the project is the first in Australia to receive accreditation from the International Mountain Bike Association as an EPIC facility. It has already attracted excellent reviews from international visitors and is quickly being recognised as a key destination for mountain bikers. The Victorian Government provided $375,000 to support construction of the single-track descent that offers stunning views across the Victorian High Country and diverse challenges for mountain bike and cycling enthusiasts. While the track is primarily for mountain bike use, there is also a shared 4km section along the Delatite River.

YEA WETLANDS ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRE

Opened in August 2014, the Yea Wetlands Environmental Centre is a $1.75 million facility designed to increase year-round visitation to the area in the wake of the February 2009 bushfires. The Victorian Government contributed $1.25 million to the project that interprets the adjacent Yea wetland and provides a range of visitor information services from an architecturally designed, sustainable Wetlands Interpretation Visitor Centre. It features displays on the importance of water, local wetland ecology and biodiversity retention in supporting floodplain, catchment and water resource management.

KOONDROOK WHARF

The $2 million construction of the Koondrook Wharf and associated infrastructure was announced in October 2014 as a major initiative to boost local businesses and community activity. Supported with $500,000 from the Victorian Government, the project will create an architecturally striking development designed to increase visitor numbers to Koondrook and act as an important link in the wider Murray River visitor experience. The project will include mooring facilities to support local recreational activity and commercial operations, casual access to the Murray River foreshore, and interpretation of the original wharf and surrounding area. There will also be deck access to support events and activities and new public works around the existing tramway turntable. For all Victorian Government funding contributions to Murray Darling projects, see page 63.

ECHUCA RIVERBOAT DOCK UPGRADES

Announced in September 2014, the $4.9 million Echuca Riverfront Redevelopment Stage 2 Project will create an accessible and attractive riverfront a t Echuca’s most visited riverside park, Riverboat Dock. Currently at planning stage, the project is part of the overall Echuca Riverfront Development to increase visitation to the town and region by encouraging a greater length of stay and increased spend. The Victorian and Commonwealth Governments are jointly contributing $3.9 million towards this second stage that will generate 50 new ongoing jobs and 14 jobs during construction. Stage 2 will integrate the adjacent Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, the Port Precinct, the Hopwood Gardens and Riverboat Dock. It will also improve environmental outcomes, vehicle access and parking arrangements, upgrade mooring access and boat servicing, establish a functional community open space, and refurbish a former kiosk/dressing shed for cafe operation.

SWAN HILL HEARTBEAT OF THE MURRAY

The $3.85 million Heartbeat of the Murray Experience is well on the way to revitalising Swan Hill’s iconic Pioneer Settlement to help boost overall visitation to the town and region. By encouraging visitors to stay longer and spend more, the project will help induce new economic development opportunities in the settlement, the riverfront precinct and throughout Swan Hill. Supported by $2.8 million jointly from the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments, the project has three components – the Heartbeat of the Murray Laser show, renewing the ‘day product’ at the settlement and supporting infrastructure.

Key assets such as the Gem paddle steamer and the Pyap Wharf will be open to the general public during the day, creating a vibrant and visually appealing function area. The overall project will enable the settlement to develop in line with visitor expectations, and generate a range of associated commercial and employment opportunities. The project will deliver 46 new jobs, retain 17 jobs and create six construction-related jobs.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15DEVELOPING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PG

FLAGSTAFF HILL MARITIME VILLAGE REDEVELOPMENT

Consistent with Warrnambool City Council’s Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Master Plan, the $2.95 million Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Renewal Project is expected to increase visitation to the region by 30 per cent. The project will include a redesigned and refreshed night sound and light/laser show – night show technology that will also be incorporated into the daytime experience. It will realign the reception areas to consolidate the gift shop and the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre, and deliver a more functional and refurbished restaurant. The project will also upgrade the wharf area so key historic whaling boats can be refurbished, and provide better access to the village’s floating fleet of ships. Supported by $1.95 million from the Victorian Government, the project is anticipated to create 21 new jobs, retain 14 and provide seven during construction.

QUEENSCLIFF FERRY TERMINAL UPGRADE PROJECT

The $2.65 million Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Upgrade Project aimed to improve the long-term commercial viability of the Queenscliff-Sorrento ferry service and stimulate new business opportunities at each destination. Supported by the Victorian Government’s $1.35 million contribution to Searoad Ferries, the project will further encourage tourism travel between the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. Work included upgrading the sea wall, expanding the car park, improving access and restoring the rock groin. The project also addressed concerns associated with ageing Crown land infrastructure that had potential to affect ferry business operations.

ULUMBARRA THEATRE DEVELOPMENT

The $25.8 million Ulumbarra Theatre development (also known as the Sandhurst Community Theatre Project) opened in April 2015. Delivered in partnership between the City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Senior Secondary College, and the Victorian and

Commonwealth Governments, the exciting new complex is now available for community use, including local education, arts, entertainment and tourism groups. The project adapted the Old Bendigo Gaol to create a new 1000-seat theatre with a fully equipped fly tower, music, dance and drama studio spaces and general learning areas. The project has enabled the entry to the new complex through the former Marong Cell Block, which housed the original gaol gallows. The Victorian Government contributed $10.5 million towards the project that created 121 jobs during construction and is forecast to generate over $36 million in regional economic output. By the fifth year of operation, the theatre is expected to attract more than 78,000 visitors per annum, support 16 ongoing jobs and encourage over $1.45 million in tourism spending.

LONGERENONG COLLEGE STUDENT RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES UPGRADE

Longerenong College is one of Victoria’s leading agricultural education institutions. A $4.74 million project began in late 2014 to refurbish the college’s residential facilities with a view to increase enrolments and course offerings, and improve regional education participation and retention rates. Broader aims of the project are to address skill shortages in the local and regional economy, facilitate skill development and skills retention, improve employment and productivity in the agricultural sector of the region and improve the college’s overall competitiveness, financial viability and long- term sustainability. The Victorian Government contributed $1.78 million towards this important project that involves refurbishing 114 single occupancy student rooms and shared residential facilities, and constructing a new three-storey building adjoining the existing accommodation to incorporate two new communal study areas and a separate recreational area. It also involves installing various utilities and amenities, such as reverse cycle air conditioning, an electronic access system and upgrading wireless internet infrastructure. The project is expected to be complete by April 2016.

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CENTRAL GEELONG REVITALISATION PRO JECT

As a growing regional city, central Geelong continues to develop as the region’s primary centre of commerce, arts/culture and entertainment, education and health. Revitalising the Geelong City centre by enhancing its attractiveness and cohesion will help maintain this growth and make the city more resilient to future social and economic changes. This $7.52 million city-shaping project is the first step in realising the objectives of Vision II, and implementing the Central Geelong Action Plan. Announced in September 2014 and supported by $3 million from the Victorian Government, the project incorporates capital works in four key areas within Central Geelong – Malop Street, Dennys Place, laneways between Malop Street and Ryrie Street, and Myers Street. Up to 45 direct and 40 indirect jobs are likely to be created, plus growth in goods and services activity, which will encourage more visitors and residents to Geelong.

The project will open up the CBD and improve links between the railway station, arts precinct, Johnstone Park, and the health services and hospital precincts. Greater pedestrian exposure to smaller retail offerings will create more property and business investment opportunities. It also aligns with sustainable design principles (including water efficiencies and tree planting) for the growth of Geelong as a regional city.

GEELONG GALLERY REDEVELOPMENT BUSINESS CASE

Finalised in March 2015 and supported by $100,000 from the Victorian Government, the $200,000 Geelong Gallery Redevelopment Business Case identified and assessed all redevelopment options for the Geelong Gallery.The City of Greater Geelong has endorsed a $39.8 million development option as the preferred option, which requires funding support from all levels of government and the private (philanthropic) sector.

SHEPPARTON ART MUSEUM FEASIBILITY STUDY

The $250,000 Shepparton Art Museum Feasibility Study determined development options for the future expansion of the Shepparton Art Museum and provided recommendations on the delivery of a $35 million preferred option that was endorsed by Greater Shepparton City Council in May 2015. The Victorian Government supported the study with $125,000. Community consultation was positive and the project is now in design phase.

BURRA FOODS KORUMBURRA

The $22 million expansion of Burra Foods’ dairy processing plant at Korumburra was completed in December 2014. Burra Foods employs 148 full-time staff and delivers significant local economic benefits by supporting 172 dairy farms in Gippsland that supply its milk. The Victorian Government contributed $1.5 million towards a key component of the project that upgraded wastewater treatment, water recycling and re-use equipment, and water purification at the plant. The water upgrades reduced the company’s annual reliance on town water by over 60 per cent, improved water quality and reduced annual wastewater discharges from 110ML to 75ML. They also underpinned the expansion of the plant that boosted the company’s value-added exports and led to the creation of 27 new ongoing jobs, as well as 60 during construction.

WANGARATTA LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE R E D E V E L O P M E N T PROJECT

Announced in June 2015, the $3.4 million Wangaratta Livestock Exchange Redevelopment Project will employ industry best practice to ensure the Exchange remains competitive and viable in an industry of rising standards and expectations. The project includes construction of a new auctioneer’s walkway and other yard modifications, new roofing over the entire facility to enable the installation of water capture and re-use, dust suppression, better

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15lighting and soft flooring.

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Benefits of the project include user safety improvements, enhanced comfort for patrons and stock and reductions in operational costs through decreased cleaning and water savings of 20Ml per annum.

The Victorian Government will contribute $500,000 towards the project that will generate 35 jobs during construction. The project will lead to an increase in the market share of the Exchange, and through increased business a n d visitation activity, local economic output is expected to increase by $5.5 million per annum and increase indirect employment by up to 36 full time equivalent positions.

ARARAT ARTS PRECINCT REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT

In April 2015, the Victorian Government announced funding of $3.7 million towards the $5.29 million Ararat Arts Precinct Redevelopment Project that will create a high profile home for arts and events in Ararat. By increasing the competitiveness of the Ararat Performing Arts Centre (APAC) and the Ararat Regional Art Gallery (ARAG), the project will enable the procurement and presentation of major professional arts programming to increase local engagement and attract high spending cultural tourists to the region.

The project will also activate the iconic town hall building in Ararat, and enhance cultural opportunities for regional residents and visitors by offering an increasing program of arts events capable of exposing residents to art forms previously unavailable in an affordable and inclusive format.

When complete, ARAG’s significant textiles collection (which is often unavailable for public viewing due to the constraints of the current facility) will be available for viewing on a regular basis. This will ensure that the popular permanent collection is available and rotated regularly so local residents and visitors can appreciate this impressive archive.

AUSNET SERVICES – HUNTLY NATURAL GAS EXTENSION

A $4.5 million project to extend the natural gas pipeline has now connected more than 380 households and businesses in Huntly to natural gas thanks to a $2.58 million investment by the Victorian Government.

Residents along the Midland Highway were among the first to connect their household appliances to natural gas in August 2014. The project provides an additional energy source for residents that can lower household costs. Gas network owner, AusNet Services (formerly SP AusNet), has laid over 16km of pipeline underground from the existing network in Bendigo. Rocky ground necessitated open cut trenching and a bigger excavator to lay the pipe, but the work and reinstatements were made with minimal impact on residents.

BROOKFIELD INFRASTRUCTURE GROUP – CNG GAS DELIVERY SOLUTION

In September 2014, the Victorian Government announced an agreement with Brookfield Infrastructure Group (Australia) to supply natural gas to 11 regional communities using a compressed natural gas (CNG) delivery solution. Following an $85 million request for tender (which includes $15 million from the Commonwealth Government), Brookfield agreed to connect Heathcote, Invermay, Lakes Entrance, Maldon, Marong, Orbost, Terang, Swan Hill, Kerang, Robinvale and Nathalia to natural gas. The CNG delivery solution involves compressing natural gas in ‘mother stations’, trucking the compressed gas to the outskirts of each town to ‘daughter stations’ where gas is stored, depressurised and then reticulated via pipes to homes and businesses within each town. As part of the project, Brookfield will double the supply capacity at its CNG station in Derrimut to supply regional towns before constructing the two mother stations. The project is expected to be complete by 2018 and provide at least 12,500 residents and industries in regional Victoria with access to natural gas.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONAL

COMMUNITIES PG 29

SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONAL COMMUNITIES

RDV encourages stronger and more sustainable regional communities by building their capacity to drive development and make the most of local investment. The following are examples of the range of projects and initiatives delivered throughout rural and regional Victoria. In 2014-15, RDV delivered the last year of community-focused Regional Growth Fund projects. Examples of these projects follow.

COWES ACTIVITY CENTRE PLAN

The $200,000 Cowes Activity Centre Plan project delivered by Bass Coast Shire Council included identifying township investment priorities related to economic development, infrastructure needs, township revitalisation, traffic and road infrastructure constraints, tourism strategies and the extension of local business cycles. RDV contributed $150,000 to the project, which was well received by the Cowes local community.

WONTHAGGI THEATRE GROUP BUILDING FOYER

This $293,500 project is currently underway to construct and fit out an all-purpose foyer attached to the existing Wonthaggi Theatrical Group building at the State Coal Mine Historic Reserve in Wonthaggi. The project involves building a new public meeting space, new toilets and a new kitchen with servery and bar, plus a significant power supply upgrade. The Victorian Government contributed $195,686 to the project, which is due for completion in 2016.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONAL COMMUNITIES PG 30

REACTIVATE LATROBE VALLEY

The $169,730 RMIT University project is currently establishing pop-up shops at 20 empty shop sites and four vacant lots in Morwell, Moe, Traralgon and Churchill through specially negotiated leases. Supported by the Victorian Government with $113,000, this important community initiative will also feature a shop front headquarters and two new major arts and cultural festivals. An overarching project steering committee and two project sub-committees will manage the events and pop-up shops. The project is nearing completion.

PAYNESVILLE E S P L A N A D E ENHANCEMENT PROJECT

Due for completion at the end of 2014-15, this $750,000 East Gippsland Shire Council project will transform the Paynesville CBD as a tourism and growing sea-change lifestyle destination. The Esplanade is the heart of Paynesville and connects the town centre and the internationally renowned Gippsland Lakes.

Work will include a maritime-themed streetscape featuring street trees, landscaping, marine timber crossings and bollards and other themed furniture and signage. Intersection redesign will slow traffic and reduce vehicle numbers, as well as increase overall pedestrian safety. Wider footpaths will encourage more retail activity and improve visitor experiences through alfresco dining and other street trading.Another feature – terracing of the foreshore – will increase the number of festivals and events that can be held, as well as offer scope for other local activities. The Victorian Government contributed $300,000 towards this important community and tourism project.

COMMUNITY GARDEN LEONGATHA

This $131,158 project for Community College Gippsland is establishing a multipurpose community garden and resource centre, and will feature a communal garden, orchard, individual plots, hydroponics, aquaponics, permablitz, display gardens, propagation facilities, a hothouse and shadehouse. Due for completion in early 2016, the Victorian Government contributed $77,400 towards the project to engage a wide range of stakeholders and provide opportunities for training, social inclusion and health benefits, as well as grow food for local distribution.

ALEXANDRA OVAL COMMUNITY AND RECREATION CENTRE

The $3.35 million project delivered by Ararat Rural City Council has transformed the Alexandra Oval precinct into a versatile meeting place for the local Ararat and surrounding community. Supported with $500,000 from the Victorian Government, the project replaced old football-only change rooms with new sporting change room facilities catering for football, cricket, netball, umpires and match day requirements. It also created a community multi-purpose meeting space including meeting room, function space, commercial kitchen, canteen, bar and public amenities within the precinct.

VICTORIA PARK INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADE

The City of Ballarat’s $1 million project is in the early stages of improvements to activate the northern end of Victoria Park – a significant, centrally located park in Ballarat. Work includes installing barbecue facilities, seating, shelters, unstructured play-space, paths and car parking. Supported with $500,000 from the Victorian Government, the upgrade promises to be a welcome addition to

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONAL

COMMUNITIES PG 31the community life of the city and surrounding region.

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COMMUNITIES PG 31

BALLARAT OLYMPIC PRECINCT UPGRADE

This $90,000 project has enhanced the overall amenity of the Olympic Rings Precinct in Ballarat that celebrates the Olympic rowing events held at Lake Wendouree in 1956, and highlights the main entrance to the lake and gardens precinct. Supported by $60,000 from the Victorian Government, the improvements include landscaping, bluestone paving border to define the precinct, irrigation to maintain the landscaped areas and a new flagpole. The improvements complemented existing infrastructure in time for the 2014 World Masters Rowing Regatta at Lake Wendouree.

MAUDE VIEWING PLATFORM

The $168,028 Maude Viewing Platform project has created a spectacular tourism asset at the highest point over the Moorabool Valley. Supported by $125,000 from the Victorian Government, the new platform’s design emphasises local Aboriginal culture that tells a Dreamtime story from the local Wathaurong people about Bundjil, the wedge tail eagle and his six helpers.

HINDMARSH SHIRE COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

The $120,000 project currently underway is using the services of a qualified and experienced consultant to develop an economic development strategy for Hindmarsh Shire. With $90,000 assistance from the Victorian Government, the strategy will outline the activities required to maximize regional output, job creation and investment for the next five years.

MALLEE BUSH RETREAT – STAGE 5

A successful collaboration between the Victorian Government and Yarriambiack Shire Council’s Lake Coorong / Lake Lascelles Committee of Management, this $92,000 project has constructed a ‘single men’s quarters’ on the foreshore of Lake Lascelles in Hopetoun. The Victorian Government contributed $60,000 to the project, which is the next stage of building accommodation units at Lake Lascelles. It is part of the community plan to provide an alternative industry and economic stimulus in the Hopetoun area.

WARRNAMBOOL CITY CENTRE REVITALISATION – GILLES STREET

Due for completion in late 2015, the $850,000 project will revitalise Gilles Street in Warrnambool. Work will include improving the taxi rank, toilet block and streetscape, plantings, and installation o f street furniture, all in keeping with the design guidelines currently being developed. The Victorian Government provided $300,000 to Warrnambool City Council towards this important initiative to boost the local economy and enhance the liveability of one of Victoria’s most dynamic regional cities.

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NIRRANDA MULTIPURPOSE CENTRE

Moyne Shire Council’s $1.52 million project will construct a multipurpose centre at Nirranda Recreation reserve for a range of community and sporting groups, including the local football and cricket clubs, junior netball association and social tennis gatherings. The Victorian Government provided $200,000 towards the project that will also include a new multipurpose centre, upgraded football change rooms, and new netball change rooms as well as a new netball court and upgrading another netball court.

MOUNT MORIAC RESERVE MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PROJECT

This $1.35 million undertaking by the Surf Coast Shire has delivered the first stage of a master plan that includes the priority redevelopment of the sporting pavilion shared by the Modewarre Football Netball Club and Modewarre Cricket Club. The Victorian Government provided $300,000 towards Stage 1, which also included upgrading and extending the netball and tennis courts to accommodate a third competition and training netball court and two tennis courts, plus a new reserve play facility.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD NATIONAL HERITAGE CENTRE

The Great Ocean Road is one of the great tourism icons of Victoria and a significant economic contributor to the local economy. The Victorian Government provided $500,000 towards this $750,000 initiative by the Surf Coast Shire to develop a National Heritage Centre commemorating the history of the construction of the Great Ocean Road. Now complete, the project included an extension to the Lorne Visitor Information Centre for more display, storage and circulation spaces, interpretive displays telling the story of the construction of the Great Ocean Road, improvements to community and visitor facilities, and centre management and heritage tourism plans.

DUNKELD COMMUNITY CENTRE

The Southern Grampians Shire Council has completed the first stage of the new $1.5 million Dunkeld Community Centre. Supported by $500,000 from the Victorian Government, stage one involved demolishing the existing RSL building, and the kitchen, supper room, foyer and toilet wing adjoining the Dunkeld Memorial Hall. The new Dunkeld Community Centre now incorporates a welcoming area, foyer, information and display area, an events space, community kitchen and kiosk, an administration area and community office with IT and equipment.

LEOPOLD COMMUNITY HUB

A thriving community within the City of Greater Geelong, this $8.96 million project gives Leopold a new multifunction meeting space with kitchen, toilets, outdoor space and storage. With $500,000 from the Victorian Government, it now forms part of a larger community hub that provides integrated early years services and a toy library. The hub is located in a central civic space enabling strong connection to the local shopping precinct.

BARWON SOUTH WEST REGIONAL TRAILS DEVELOPMENT, MANAGEMENT AND PROMOTION PROJECT

This $70,000 Warrnambool City Council project responds directly to recommendations contained in the Barwon South West Regional Trails Master Plan, a region-wide partnership-planning project. Funded by the Victorian Government this project will develop an action plan to develop, manage and promote regional trails in the Barwon South West. The project is expected to conclude by September 2015.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONAL

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OCEAN GROVE PARK PERFORMANCE SPACE

Developed by Ocean Grove Park Inc with $500,000 assistance from the Victorian Government, this $1 million project created a performance space building in Ocean Grove Park so the growing local community has a permanently available public venue for arts presentations.The venue will also be used for meetings, education sessions, ceremonies, conferences and community gatherings in indoor and outdoor surroundings for audiences of up to 2,000.

HOPWOOD GARDENS PARK DEVELOPMENT – ECHUCA

The Shire of Campaspe instigated this $520,000 project to redevelop Hopwood Gardens Park in the popular Port of Echuca tourist precinct. With $340,000 from the Victorian Government, the recently begun redevelopment will improve the connection between the port precinct and the proposed riverbank development, using landscaping and linking pathways. Traffic calming and better car parking will also improve safety and enhance facilities.

BENDIGO BOTANIC GARDENS – GARDEN FOR THE FUTURE

The Bendigo Botanic Gardens are one of the city’s key assets. This $3.92 million project n o w underway will realise a three-hectare contemporary Garden for the Future. The Victorian Government contributed $500,000 towards purpose-built, modern, outdoor infrastructure that will include two hectares of contemporary botanic garden designed by a leading landscape architecture firm, display gardens housing collections of interesting plants from around the world, and a sheltered outdoor performance and lecture area. The project will also incorporate an outdoor event space, central pedestrian promenade and supporting footpath network along with an array of sustainable features such as advanced street trees irrigated by stormwater and an irrigation system incorporating water-sensitive urban design and recycled water supply.

CANTERBURY PARK

Currently underway, the $1.6 million second stage of a development to transform the Canterbury Park Precinct into a sophisticated events and community space hub focuses on the Eastern section of the ‘central activity area’. With $500,000 in the Victorian Government assistance for the City of Greater Bendigo, it includes constructing an entry road, car park modifications, a multi-functional event space, general landscaping and park lighting.

KYNETON COMMUNITY PARK

The $400,000 project for the Macedon Ranges Shire Council, with $300,000 from the Victorian Government, represents the initial stage of the construction of the Kyneton Community Park.Due for completion in early 2016, it will involve developing detailed designs to be followed by site preparation works, including drainage, hydraulic and power infrastructure, and above ground infrastructure such as pathways, landscaping elements and water features, plus cultural management plans.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONAL COMMUNITIES PG 34

MURRAY RIVER TRAIL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT

This $600,000 Mildura Rural City Council project is in its early stages to complete a large section of Mildura’s river trail and connect key attractions along the Murray River. Supported by $300,000 from the Victorian Government, work includes constructing shared off-road cycling and walking trails, bollards, trail signs and seating, new leisure infrastructure designed to encourage more nature-based and cycle tourism in the region.

BENALLA PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION CENTRE

This $316,000 Benalla Rural City Council project has upgraded the facilities at the Benalla Performing Arts and Convention Centre. With the assistance of $237,000 from the Victorian Government, work included refurbishing the kiosk and kitchen, providing better access to upgraded meeting rooms and function amenities, and updating IT connections. A digital projector is now installed in the cinema, which also had upgrades to its lighting, change rooms and auditorium. Streetscaping adjacent to the facility completed the precinct refurbishment.

WANGARATTA CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT MASTER PLAN PROJECT

The $225,000 project developed by the Rural City of Wangaratta is currently adding to the existing body of knowledge within council and identifying key infrastructure and planning activities to enhance the Wangaratta CBD and business precinct. Supported by $150,000 from the Victorian Government, the project is considering a breadth of requirements, including transport and cultural activities within the CBD.

STRATEGIC TRAILS IN THE ALPINE SHIRE

The Alpine Shire Council implemented a $2.5 million project to create the trailhead sections of the Harrietville to Bright shared trail. Supported by $1 million from the Victorian Government, the project has also completed trails between Pioneer Park in Harrietville to Stoney Creek, Smoko, and about 5km along the Ovens River corridor from Centenary Park in Bright to Germantown Bridge.

YARCK COMMUNITY HALL RENOVATION

The small community of Yarck now benefits considerably from this $277,000 project to upgrade its existing hall with a new power supply, new kitchen, reverse cycle air conditioning, an external deck, new veranda, disabled toilet and some external all-weather ground works. With $169,000 from the Victorian Government, the completed project provides the community with a much-needed multipurpose meeting place.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15SUPPORTING RURAL AND REGIONALCOMMUNITIES PG 35

FOGGY MOUNTAINS BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

This $30,000 initiative by the Kinglake Business Network enabled the inaugural three-day Bluegrass Festival to be held at Kinglake in October 2014. Supported with $20,000 from the Victorian Government, the festival included a wide range of activities, from a bush dance to all-day events in the town centre, to support two separate, ticketed bluegrass concerts, a traditional gospel concert, farmers’ market and a vintage car show.

MANSFIELD COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE PROJECT

Mansfield Shire Council partnered with the local community in this $618,000 project to improve the layout and usability of Mansfield Recreation Reserve – the town’s primary outdoor community gathering place. This project represents stages 4 and 5 of the redevelopment and included alterations to access and parking, provision of pathways, and constructing terraced seating.

FAWCETT HALL UPGRADE

This $82,000 Fawcett Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management project has made the most of an important community asset. The project extended the existing hall, and added a new kitchen and unisex disabled toilets, plus an outdoor deck with ramps linking the new extension to the original building. With $80,000 contributed by the Victorian Government, the project also incorporates sustainable design elements such as solar panels and storm water pipes connected to tanks and septic plumbing to reuse rain/grey water in the toilets.

MURCHISON HERITAGE CENTRE REDEVELOPMENT

The $160,000 project by Greater Shepparton City Council extended the centre to increase opportunities for the Historical Society’s operation as well as provide more community facilities for the township of Murchison.Supported with $80,000 from the State Government, the extension now provides a new multipurpose space opening onto the gardens adjacent to the building and features a fully equipped kitchen. The multipurpose space is available for community group meetings as well as private function hire.

PORT 14-15 NAGEMENT AND VERY PG 36

RDV ANNUAL RE EMERGENCY MA REGIONAL RECO

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND REGIONAL RECOVERYRDV works in partnership with other Government and non-government organisations to support the recovery of communities and economies impacted by emergencies. In 2014-15, RDV worked with communities affected by the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, the 2010, 2011 and 2012 floods, the 2014 bushfires and the Morwell Mine fire.

2009 VICTORIAN BUSHFIRES

Through the Fire Recovery Unit, RDV continued to provide a central point of contact for information and connection to services within the State Government for communities affected by the 20 09 Victorian Bushfires. This included supporting communities to implement local initiatives funded through the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund.

In August 2014, RDV provided $975,000 to the Marysville and Triangle Community Foundation to support recovery and community projects in the Marysville and Triangle region over the next 10 years. This meets a Government commitment to ensure proceeds from the sale of Marysville Central Shopping Centre benefit the local community.

RDV also continued to support activities in the Kinglake Ranges, including the inaugural Foggy Mountain Bluegrass Festival that attracted more than 1,000 people, delivered significant local economic benefits and strengthened community cohesion.

Vibe Marysville Hotel and Conference Centre

Officially opened on 21 April 2015, Vibe Marysville Hotel and Conference Centre (Vibe Marysville) was listed by Traveller magazine as one of the world’s 15 most remarkable hotel openings of the year, alongside esteemed hotel developments including Dubai’s Palazzo Versace, Venice’s JW Marriot and Beijing’s Sunrise Kempinksi.

Vibe Marysville’s development was a partnership between the Victorian Government (which contributed $19 million), the private sector (project consortia members were TFE Hotels, Metier3 Architects and Melbourne Civic City Property), and the Marysville community. The long anticipated hotel and conference centre began operating in February 2015.

The new facility incorporates 101 guest rooms (including five suites), a conference centre (with event and meeting spaces for up to 430 guests), the Radius Bar and Grill, Radius Café, spa/ wellness centre, gymnasium outdoor pool and tennis court.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND

REGIONAL RECOVERY PG 37

During the construction phase, the project created approximately 85 new full time equivalent jobs, generated a regional turnover of $23 million per annum and a regional value-add of $9.5 million per annum. The Economic Assessment Report prepared by SGS Economics and Planning forecast that by its fifth operational year, Vibe Marysville would create 60 ongoing full time equivalent jobs, generate a regional turnover of $12 million per annum and a regional value- add of $6.4 million per annum. Vibe Marysville’s current operating performance has already surpassed these projections.

Since opening, Vibe Marysville has hosted over 4,000 guests and 1,300 delegates and utilised 22 local food suppliers from the region to supply the Radius Restaurant. The ‘opening team’ has expanded from 42 to 67 members, including 50 from the Marysville and Triangle region.

Tourism and visitor economies are significant drivers of economic growth and development in the regions. Strategic tourism infrastructure and complementary destination offerings are crucial to increasing visitation, length of stay and spending in the regions. The Victorian Government played a significant role in this project by de-risking and leveraging private investment to deliver a significant hotel and conference centre development, which is helping reposition Marysville as a leisure and business destination.

2010, 2011 AND 2012 FLOODS

In 2014-15, RDV completed delivery of its support programs for communities impacted by the 2010, 2011 and 2012 floods. The Victorian Government provided $11.15 million over three years to repair and restore community infrastructure via 60 projects in 35 municipalities.

One of the final projects under the funding completed in 2014-15 was reinstating the Tungamah netball courts, supported by Moira Shire Council and $15,000 raised by local community members. The new courts have secured the club’s future and ensured that sporting competition can continue in Tungamah.

2014 BUSHFIRES AND MORWELL MINE FIRE

RDV continued delivering $2.3 million in economic recovery support for regional Victorian communities affected by the 2014 bushfires and the Morwell Mine fire. Support is allocated to three distinct components – a 2014 bushfire recovery community events package, fast tracking regional development projects in affected communities and a 2014 bushfires economic recovery fund.

The first two components address immediate and short-term economic recovery needs.The third focuses on longer-term economic recovery by funding various infrastructure, tourism and strategic plan projects. Under all three components, 24 projects were approved (with most completed or underway). These included $1 million allocated to four projects in Morwell for an urban design and development plan and beautification works, a communication and branding strategy, a major event, and the design and construction of two city entrances. Implementing all four projects will take place over the next two and a half years.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND REGIONAL RECOVERY PG 38

RESILIENT COMMUNITY PROGRAM

As well as responding to emergencies, RDV worked with regional communities to pilot initiatives that build capacity to prepare for, withstand and recover from all types of hazards. Twenty projects were supported under this program and RDV is working with recipients to maximise learning outcomes. The following case studies describe two of these projects.

Volunteering Victoria

Volunteering Victoria received $110,000 for its Manager of Spontaneous Emergency Volunteers project. The pilot project recruited and trained volunteer managers who can be deployed to help spontaneous emergency volunteers during relief and recovery activities. The project has strengthened relationships and clarified roles between local volunteer groups, emergency service organisations, community members and local government. It has enhanced emergency preparedness, capability and resilience throughout the G21 region, which incorporates the municipalities of Colac Otway, Golden Plains, Greater Geelong, Queenscliffe and Surf Coast.

Destination Gippsland

Destination Gippsland received $40,000 for the Gippsland Tourism Incident Management project. The project delivered a series of workshops to the tourism business community across Gippsland to provide education, leadership, media and resilience training. Key resources developed as part of the project include individual training videos, a USB resource to aid emergency planning and a digital based resource incorporating a range of information and risk management tools. The project has empowered the Gippsland tourism business community to take a leading role in preparing, responding and recovering from emergency events.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15PROMOTING RURAL AND

REGIONAL VICTORIA PG 39

PROMOTING RURAL AND REGIONAL VICTORIA

2014 ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW

The regional living message was on display at the Royal Melbourne Show from 20 September to 1 October 2014, highlighting the living and investment opportunities available in regional Victoria to an estimated 500,000 Melburnians. RDV’s 2014 display was located inside the popular Woolworths pavilion and focused on providing visitors with both interactive activities along with practical and informative information on relocating to regional Victoria.

To involve children, the stand featured a rock-climbing wall showcasing Mt Arapiles from the Grampians region, a fishing activity with a stunning backdrop image of Gipsy Point in Gippsland along with a giant map of Victoria finger painting activity. Adults were invited to explore the more informative components of the stand, which included a job search and business investment kiosk describing the ‘five steps to planning your move to regional Victoria’ plus a giant map of Victoria and regional profile information boards. All stand messaging was tied into the Good Move regional marketing campaign and promoted the 2015 Regional Victoria Living Expo.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15PROMOTING RURAL AND REGIONAL VICTORIA PG 40

2015 REGIONAL VICTORIA LIVING EXPO

The fourth edition of the Regional Victoria Living Expo was a success, attracting a record 10,156 patrons. Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 1-3 May, the 2015 Regional Victoria Living Expo was a free, three-day public event showcasing the benefits of living and investing in rural and regional Victoria. A total of 125 exhibitors, including the State’s 48 rural and regional councils, were on hand to help Melburnians with their move, providing practical advice on regional housing, employment, education, health and lifestyle opportunities.

Other event highlights included an arts and culture program showcasing regional Victoria’s vibrant arts industry, seminars, providing information on regional housing and business opportunities, and a ‘sports in the community’ precinct – a sports interactive zone giving Expo visitors the chance to meet some of their favourite sports stars, including AFL players Steve Johnson and Jarryd Roughead, and Geva Mentor from the Melbourne Vixens.

New features for 2015 included the ‘Put Victoria on Your Table’ cooking demonstrations, which involved 11 cooking demonstrations over three days, and the Regional Jobs Hub, a dedicated area designed to match Expo visitors with employment and training opportunities in regional Victoria. Once again, the Expo proved particularly popular with young families and working professionals, and councils continue to receive positive enquiries from attendees keen to move to their regions.

GOOD MOVE REGIONAL MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The Victorian Government’s Good Move regional marketing campaign continued to highlight the very best of regional living, showcasing real-life families who have made the move from the city and now call regional Victoria home. The campaign included television and radio advertising featuring case studies from each of the five State Government boundary regions with real-life families who had moved to rural and regional Victoria. The Good Move campaign complemented the Regional Victoria Living Expo, with both programs used to promote rural and regional Victoria as an ideal relocation and investment option, offering opportunities equal to or greater than Melbourne.

RDV ANNUAL RE FUTURE PRIORI

FUTURE PRIORITIES

In 2015-16, RDV will continue building on the strengths of Victoria’s regions, and maintain economic growth in the context of various opportunities and challenges.

A key focus for RDV will be to continue delivering Victorian Government priorities, and attract and support high value initiatives under the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.

RDV will work to implement the Government’s reforms arising from Regional Economic Development and Services Review chaired by former Victorian Premier and former Minister for Regional Development, John Brumby.

RDV will seek to capitalise on other government reforms for regional Victoria, including a renewed commitment to regional tourism under Visit Victoria, a new Food and Fibre Strategy under the Future Industry Fund, and major regional investments in education, skills, road and rail.

In line with government policy, RDV will also aim to ensure fair and equitable growth in regional Victoria to help tackle disadvantage, and build a sustainable future.

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RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FUTURE PRIORITIES PG 42

RDV priorities in 2015-16 will include the following.

BUILD A STRONG AND COMPETITIVE R E G I O N A L VICTORIAN ECONOMY

> Invest in major infrastructure projects that create or enhance the conditions for economic growth, and build diversified and sustainable regional economies that are resilient to change.

> Attract and facilitate investment with a focus on regional competitive advantage or high-growth potential businesses.

> Capitalise on the potential of emerging industry sectors, particularly the Victorian Government’s priority areas and new export markets.

SUPPORT JOB CREATION

> Deliver activities associated with the Victorian Government’s commitment to rural and regional employment.

> Help regional businesses invest in new technology, processes and collaboration.

> Support regionally-based businesses to engage with new domestic and international markets.

> Facilitate new investment and trade through initiatives that strengthen alliances to boost exports, build industry capabilities and support high growth, high-value industry sectors to drive jobs growth and attract new investment.

STRENGTHEN REGIONAL COMMUNITIES

> Encourage families and young people to live and work in rural and regional towns.

> Invest in community-led initiatives and partnerships that create or enhance conditions for economic growth, build community capabilities to drive change, and improve the liveability of rural and regional towns.

> Improve the liveability of cities, centres and towns to attract and retain families and young people to liveand work.

> Continue working with the Commonwealth Government through the RDA Committees to capture opportunities for joint investment and action.

> Support regional strategic planning alliances to implement priority projects and actions.

FINANCE

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 44

RDV GRANT PAYMENTS2014 BUSHFIRES ECONOMIC RECOVERY FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Destination Gippsland Ltd 225,000

East Gippsland Shire Council 45,000

Grampians Tourism Board Inc 166,500

Horsham Rural City Council 108,900

Latrobe City Council 150,000

Northern Grampians Shire Council 112,500

Total 807,900

ADVANCING COUNTRY TOWNSOrganisation Payment $

Benalla Rural City Council 108,700

Colac Otway Shire 34,000

East Gippsland Shire Council 108,700

Glenelg Shire Council 307,500

Mildura Rural City Council 307,500

Murrindindi Shire Council 39,000

Robinvale District Health Services 108,700

South Gippsland Shire Council 151,500

Total 1,165,600

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 45

BUILDING STRONGER REGIONS PROGRAMSOrganisation Payment $

Agribusiness Gippsland Inc

Australia China Business Council

Baw Baw Shire Council

Bulmer Farms Pty Ltd

Catholiccare Archdiocese of

Melbourne Central Goldfields Shire

Council

Department of Education and Early Childhood

Development Department of Environment and Primary

Industries Department of Transport Planning and Local

Infrastructure East Gippsland Food Cluster Incorporated

East Gippsland Shire

Council Gippsdairy Board

Inc

Gippsland Employment Skills Training

Inc Greater Bendigo City Council

Growth Areas Authority

Lakes Entrance Fishermens Co-operative Society

17,000

150,000

20,266

12,500

15,000

300,000

4,000,000

2,600,000

50,000

32,500

350,000

19,250

5,000

165,000

166,668

16,250

250,000

Total 8,169,434

COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM FOR BUSHFIRE AFFECTED COMMUNITIESOrganisation Payment $

Labertouche & District Community Centre

Inc Murrindindi Shire Council

26,250

27,000

Total 53,250

COMMUNITY RECOVERY FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Baw Baw Shire

Council Mitchell Shire

Council

7,323

33,006

8,265

Total 48,594

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 46

COMMUNITY REGIONAL INDUSTRY SKILLS PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Longwarry Food Park Pty Ltd

Milburn Lake Pty Ltd

3,333

20,000

Total 23,333

CORIO NORLANE TRANSPORT PROJECTOrganisation Payment $

City of Greater Geelong 222,600

Total 222,600

DEVELOPING REGIONAL LEADERSOrganisation Payment $

Local Government Professionals Inc 10,000

Total 10,000

DEVELOPING STRONGER REGIONS PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Ballarat City Council 329,784

Barwon Region Water Corporation 41,500

City of Greater Geelong 160,000

Department of Environment and Primary Industries 322,513

Fruit Innovation Processing Pty Ltd 50,000

Greater Shepparton City Council 125,000

Hardwicks Meat Works Pty Ltd 43,568

Heathcote Tourism & Development Inc 27,328

North East Victoria Tourism Board Inc 25,000

Shire of Towong 40,349

Total 1,165,041

FARMERS’ MARKETS SUPPORT PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Hepburn Shire Council 17,550

Local Food Connect Inc 1,700

Nillumbik Shire Council 12,000

Swan Hill Rural City Council 8,500

Victorian Farmers' Markets Association Inc 117,000

Wedderburn Community House Inc 16,200

Total 172,950

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 47

FIRE READY COMMUNITIESOrganisation Payment $

City of Whittlesea 3,750

Fawcett Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management 1,062

Healesville Living & Learning Centre Inc 8,200

Horsham Rural City Council 343

Long Gully Neighbourhood Centre Inc 3,000

Nillumbik Shire Council 13,700

Surf Coast Shire 9,724

The Otway Health & Community Services 10,000

Total 49,779

FLOOD RECOVERY COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Baw Baw Shire Council

East Gippsland Shire Council

Greater Shepparton City

Council Latrobe City Council

Mitchell Shire Council

Moira Shire Council

Murrindindi Shire Council

Shire of Towong

South Gippsland Shire

Council Swan Hill Rural City

Council

13,960

1,103

938

24,000

8,796

100,000

1,824

12,000

16,300

141,627

9,856

Total 330,404

FLOODS COMMUNITY RECOVERY FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Hindmarsh Shire Council

Mount Alexander Shire

Council

9,000

6,785

Total 15,785

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 48

LIVING REGIONS LIVING SUBURBSOrganisation Payment $

Ararat Rural City Council 4,800

East Gippsland Shire Council 15,000

Hindmarsh Shire Council 15,000

Horsham Golf Club 15,000

Horsham Rural City Council 15,000

Latrobe City Council 135,000

Macedon Ranges Shire Council 15,000

Mallee Family Care Inc 8,000

Marysville Community Golf & Bowls Club Inc 200,000

Mitchell Shire Council 15,000

Northern Grampians Shire Council 15,000

Portland and District Christian Emergency Relief Centre Inc 6,449

Tourism Victoria 20,000

Victorian Chicken Meat Council Inc 15,000

Wellington Shire Council 10,000

Total 504,249

LOCAL GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Alpine Shire 400,000

Ararat Rural City Council 260,000

Baw Baw Shire Council 15,000

Borough of Queenscliffe 555,000

Buloke Shire Council 451,375

Central Goldfields Shire Council 390,000

City of Greater Geelong 740,000

Colac Otway Shire 715,000

Corangamite Shire Council 1,025,000

East Gippsland Shire Council 480,000

Gannawarra Shire Council 120,000

Glenelg Shire Council 920,000

Golden Plains Shire Council 250,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 49

LOCAL GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM (cont’d)Organisation Payment $

Greater Bendigo City Council 15,000

Hepburn Shire Council 300,000

Hindmarsh Shire Council 140,000

Latrobe City Council 10,000

Macedon Ranges Shire Council 620,000

Mansfield Shire Council 440,000

Mitchell Shire Council 470,000

Moira Shire Council 700,000

Moorabool Shire Council 440,000

Mount Alexander Shire Council 801,049

Murrindindi Shire Council 530,000

Pyrenees Shire Council 90,000

Shire of Moyne 615,000

Shire of Strathbogie 460,000

Shire of Towong 490,000

Southern Grampians Shire Council 1,370,984

Wangaratta Rural City Council 190,000

Wellington Shire Council 640,000

West Wimmera Shire Council 705,000

Wodonga City Council 10,000

Yarriambiack Shire Council 453,000

Total 15,811,408

LOCAL SKILLS PARTNERSHIPOrganisation Payment $

Ararat Rural City Council 7,500

Benalla Rural City Council 7,500

Buloke Shire Council 15,000

Central Goldfields Shire Council 7,500

Horsham Rural City Council 7,500

Northern Grampians Shire Council 29,200

Pyrenees Shire Council 7,500

Southern Grampians Shire Council 7,500

Surf Coast Shire 3,750

Yarriambiack Shire Council 3,750

Total 96,700

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 50

MARYSVILLE ECONOMIC RECOVERYOrganisation Payment $

Marysville Triangle Business and Tourism Inc

Murrindindi Shire Council

65,000

100,000

Total 165,000

MARYSVILLE HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE D E V E L O P M E N TOrganisation Payment $

Marysville Hotel and Conference Centre Pty Ltd 6,400,000

Total 6,400,000

NETWORKED RURAL COUNCILSOrganisation Payment $

Municipal Association of Victoria 645,000

Total 645,000

PLANNING FOR TOMORROW PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Ararat Rural City Council 7,000

Ballarat City Council 20,000

City of Greater Geelong 4,000

Greater Bendigo City Council 84,000

Mansfield Shire Council 47,500

Southern Grampians Shire Council 27,500

Total 190,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 51

PUTTING LOCALS FIRST PROGRAMOrganisation Payment

A-1 Engineering (Vic) Pty Ltd 15,000

Advance Camperdown Inc 134,100

Agrifood Skills Australia Ltd 15,000

Alpine Shire 1,555,850

Anglican Trusts Corporation of The Diocese of Gippsland 41,270

Apollo Bay Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Inc 5,000

Ararat Rural City Council 23,900

Australasian Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association Inc 5,000

Australian Dairy Conference Ltd 1,000

Bacchus Marsh Community Unlimited Incorporated 1,500

Ballarat City Council 701,000

Ballarat National Theatre Inc 36,000

Bass Coast Shire Council 568,226

Baw Baw Latrobe Local Learning and Employment Network Inc 1,000

Baw Baw Shire Council 945,500

Beechworth Rotary Club Inc 5,000

Benalla Auto Club Inc 25,000

Benalla Rural City Council 408,500

Bendigo Chinese Association Museum Inc 90,000

Bendigo TAFE 150,000

Borough of Queenscliffe 251,500

Brauerander Park Foundation 19,300

Bright Court House Committee of Management 130,500

Buda Historic Home & Garden Inc 2,550

Buloke Shire Council 430,000

Bundalaguah-Myrtlebank Public Hall Inc 18,800

Campaspe Shire Council 53,600

Castlemaine Hot Rod Centre Ltd 26,100

Central Goldfields Shire Council 48,675

Chrismont Wines Pty Ltd 30,000

City of Greater Geelong 1,345,300

Colac Otway Shire 508,500

Committee for Geelong Ltd 3,000

Common Equity Housing Ltd 414,000

Community College Gippsland Ltd 38,700

Corangamite Shire Council 396,866

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 52

PUTTING LOCALS FIRST PROGRAM (cont’d)Organisation Payment

Cowes Yacht Club Incorporated 63,543

Creative Clunes Inc 14,000

Creswick Railway Workshops Association Inc 2,000

D. & R. Henderson Pty Ltd 75,000

Deakin University 64,000

Dja Dja Wurrung Enterprises Pty Ltd 3,400

Donald 2000 Inc 16,200

Donald Music Literature and Arts Society Inc 12,500

East Gippsland Shire Council 795,250

Eildon Action Inc 5,160

Eltsac Pty Ltd 40,000

Fawcett Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management 6,000

Flowercow Pty Ltd 25,000

Foodbank Victoria Ltd 10,000

Freshzest Pty Ltd 24,000

Gallery Kaiela Inc 18,000

Gannawarra Shire Council 463,150

Gateways Support Services Inc 12,000

Gippsland Lakes Community Health 18,000

Give Where You Live Inc 90,000

Glenelg Shire Council 524,989

Golden Plains Shire Council 73,500

Goulburn River Valley Tourism Ltd 67,500

Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Inc 33,000

Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Ltd 30,000

Greater Bendigo City Council 765,500

Greater Shepparton City Council 130,720

GV Community Energy Pty Ltd 25,000

Hepburn Shire Council 126,000

Hindmarsh Shire Council 645,250

Horsham Rural City Council 902,200

Indigo Shire Council 121,200

Insulmet Pty Ltd 15,000

J & J Nielsen Pty Ltd 1,050

Jailhouse Rock Festival Committee Inc 500

James Stock Feed And Fertilizer Pty Ltd 10,000

Joel Joel Public Hall 400

Karingal Inc 325,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 53

PUTTING LOCALS FIRST PROGRAM (cont’d)Organisation Payment

Kennedys Creek Public Hall 5,000

Kinglake Ranges Business Network Inc 38,375

Koallah Farm Pty Ltd 20,000

Lake Bolac Development Association Inc 550

Lake Coorong/Lake Lascelles Committee of Management Inc 24,000

Lakegoldsmith Steam Preservation Association Inc 500

Latrobe City Business Tourism Association Inc 4,500

Latrobe City Council 826,850

Latrobe Valley Women In Business Inc 1,000

Lions Club of Corryong 29,700

Lions Club of Minyip Inc 780

Loddon Shire Council 408,000

Longwarry & District Lions Club Inc 40,000

Lorne Business & Tourism Association Inc 5,000

Macedon Ranges Shire Council 971,789

Macpherson Smith Rural Foundation Ltd 15,000

Majorca Victoria Park Gardens & Public 11,970

Mallacoota Arts Council Inc 150,000

Mallee District Aboriginal Services 320,000

Mansfield Shire Council 203,390

Mildura Development Corporation Inc 3,000

Mildura Rural City Council 542,958

Mitchell Shire Council 661,654

Moira Shire Council 477,000

Molesworth Public Hall 280,000

Mollongghip Hall and Tennis Club Incorporation 2,000

Montana Timber Holdings Pty Ltd 3,000

Moorabool Shire Council 34,300

Mount Alexander Shire Council 3,000

Mount Elephant Community Management Inc 60,000

Murray River Region Tourism Ltd 97,500

Murrindindi Shire Council 227,600

Nangiloc Colignan Farms Pty Ltd 75,000

Natimuk Foreshore Committee 72,500

Nezky Pty Ltd 10,000

North East Victoria Tourism Board Inc 10,000

Northern Grampians Shire Council 315,950

Nullawil Recreation Reserve 82,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 54

PUTTING LOCALS FIRST PROGRAM (cont’d)

Organisation Payment

Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre Inc 1,620

Ocean Grove Park Inc 500,000

Oxley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Incorporated 28,000

Parks Victoria 28,000

Port Campbell Progress Group Inc 72,000

Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail Committee Inc 44,000

Portland Tourist Association Inc 13,500

Pyrenees Shire Council 687,400

RMIT Link 130,000

Rochester Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc 800

Rochester Historical & Pioneer Society Incorp 57,000

Rotary Club of Alexandra Inc 160,000

Rotary Club of Southern Mitchell Inc 48,600

Ryan & Mcnulty Pty Ltd 10,000

Sale Business and Tourism Association Inc 2,640

Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club Inc 200,000

Seaview Public Hall Reserve 20,904

Shire of Moyne 1,130,826

Shire of Strathbogie 999,000

Shire of Towong 620,500

Skipton Progress Association Inc 17,000

South Gippsland Shire Council 1,051,971

Southern Farming Systems Ltd 4,500

Southern Grampians Shire Council 513,000

St Laurence Community Services Inc 84,000

St Leonards Progress Association Incorporated 6,300

Star Community Cinema Association Inc 3,500

Sunassist Volunteer Helpers Inc 45,000

Surf Coast Shire 930,000

Swan Hill Rural City Council 423,600

Tanjil Valley Landcare Group 12,150

Tarraville Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Inc 19,000

The Bendigo Trust 80,000

The Boisdale & District Progress Association Inc 16,928

The Centre for Rural Communities Inc 3,000

The Gippsland Business Awards Association Inc 600

The Mountain Cattlemens Association of Victoria Inc 82,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 55

PUTTING LOCALS FIRST PROGRAM (cont’d)

Organisation Payment

The Willaura & District Community Development Group Inc 15,000

Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine Inc 161,500

Trafalgar East Public Hall Reserve 1,500

UCA – Camperdown 3,000

Valley Park Farm Pty Ltd 60,000

Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Museum Sub-Branch 1,358

Walhalla Board of Management Inc 10,800

Walhalla Goldfields Railway Inc 40,000

Wangaratta Rural City Council 447,800

Warracknabeal & District Historical Society Inc 7,500

Warracknabeal Town Hall Committee of Management 7,500

Warrnambool City Council 590,000

Wellington Shire Council 619,000

West Wimmera Health Service 11,000

West Wimmera Shire Council 225,000

Wimmera Development Association Inc 3,000

Wimmera Development Association Incorporated 16,000

Wodonga City Council 310,500

Wonthaggi Theatrical Group Inc 175,000

Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd 13,500

Wurinbeena Ltd 15,000

Yarck Mechanics Institute and Library 101,400

Yarrawonga Holiday Park Inc 22,500

Yarriambiack Shire Council 318,300

Yea Community Service Group Inc 650

Yea Racecourse and Recreation Reserve 53,400

Yinnar & District Community Association Inc 9,360

Total 31,320,022

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 56

REGIONAL BLUEPRINT - INDUSTRIES FOR TODAY AND TOMORROWOrganisation Payment $

Pactum Dairy Group Pty Ltd 550,000

Total 550,000

REGIONAL COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Committee for Ballarat Inc 197,000

Committee for Geelong Ltd 150,000

Community Leadership Loddon Murray Inc 150,000

Greater Shepparton City Council 135,000

MADEC Australia 140,000

Moira Shire Council 10,000

North East Agcare Incorporation 126,000

Shire of Moyne 100,000

Wimmera Development Association Inc 91,125

Total 1,099,125

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA - REGIONALOrganisation Payment $

Avalon Airport Australia Pty

Ltd Ballarat City Council

Central Goldfields Shire

Council City of Greater

Geelong Federation University

Australia

Gippsland Climate Change Network

Incorporated Great Ocean Road Regional

Tourism Ltd

Greater Shepparton City

Council Southern Farming

Systems Ltd Surf Coast Shire

Warrnambool City

Council Wellington Shire

3,000

60,000

45,000

20,656

5,000

20,000

50,000

6,250

38,400

25,000

56,000

10,000

43,000

Total 382,306

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 57

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT VICTORIA SPECIAL PURPOSE PROJECTSOrganisation Payment $

Marysville and Triangle Community Foundation Ltd 975,000

Total 975,000

RESILIENT COMMUNITY PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

Australian Red Cross

Society Buloke Shire

Council

Central Goldfields Shire

Council Destination Gippsland

Ltd

Emerald Centre for Hope & Outreach

Inc Melton City Council

Mitchell Shire Council

South Gippsland Shire Council

The East Gippsland Network of Neighbourhood Houses

Inc Victorian Deaf Society

Volunteering Victoria Incorporated

Wangaratta Rural City Council

86,400

11,471

52,362

36,000

34,200

82,530

80,538

26,100

73,800

71,100

11,000

36,000

90,000

Total 691,501

SMALL SCALE COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTSOrganisation Payment $

City of Greater Geelong

Glengarry Mechanics Institute (Hall Committee)

Noweyung Ltd

20,000

2,500

35,000

Total 57,500

SMALL TOWNS DEVELOPMENT FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Wangaratta Rural City Council 100,000

Total 100,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 58

SUSTAINABLE SMALL TOWNS DEVELOPMENT FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Shire of Moyne 100,000

Total 100,000

THE GOOD LIFE CAMPAIGNOrganisation Payment $

Alpine Shire 20,000

Ballarat City Council 10,000

Bass Coast Shire Council 10,000

Baw Baw Shire Council 20,000

Benalla Rural City Council 10,000

Borough of Queenscliffe 10,000

Buloke Shire Council 10,000

Campaspe Shire Council 10,000

Central Goldfields Shire Council 20,000

City of Greater Geelong 10,000

Colac Otway Shire 10,000

Corangamite Shire Council 10,000

Department of Premier and Cabinet 38,635

East Gippsland Shire Council 10,000

Gannawarra Shire Council 10,000

Glenelg Shire Council 10,000

Golden Plains Shire Council 10,000

Greater Bendigo City Council 20,000

Greater Shepparton City Council 10,000

Hepburn Shire Council 10,000

Hindmarsh Shire Council 20,000

Horsham Rural City Council 20,000

Indigo Shire Council 10,000

Latrobe City Council 20,000

Loddon Shire Council 20,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG 59

THE GOOD LIFE CAMPAIGN (cont’d)Organisation Payment $

Macedon Ranges Shire

Council Mansfield Shire

Council

Mildura Rural City

Council Mitchell Shire

Council Moira Shire

Council Moorabool Shire

Council Murrindindi Shire

Council

Northern Grampians Shire

Council Pyrenees Shire Council

Shire of Moyne

Shire of

Strathbogie

South Gippsland Shire Council

Southern Grampians Shire Council

Surf Coast Shire

Swan Hill Rural City Council

Wangaratta Rural City

Council Warrnambool City

Council Wellington Shire

Council

10,000

10,000

10,000

20,000

10,000

10,000

10,000

20,000

10,000

10,000

10,000

20,000

10,000

10,000

10,000

10,000

10,000

20,000

20,000

10,000

10,000

Total 618,635

VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE BUSINESS INVESTMENT FUND

Organisation Payment $

Blueberry Hill Berries

Jindivick Timber Pty Ltd

10,000

Total 20,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 60

VICTORIAN BUSINESS FLOOD RECOVERY FUNDOrganisation Payment $

Beechworth Honey Experience Pty

Ltd Brimarco Pty Ltd

Cutri Fruit Pty Ltd

David Eldridge Pty

Ltd

E.B. Mawson & Sons Proprietary

Ltd Elliott Holdings (Aust) Pty Ltd

G.E. & D.A. Kennedy Proprietary

Ltd Geltch Investments Pty Ltd

Global Roto-Moulding Pty

Ltd Hopley Recycling Pty Ltd

Lamattina Beverages Pty Ltd

Leda Custom Farm Equipment Pty

Ltd Miquin Pty Ltd

Mortlock Hydroponics Pty Ltd

N & C Hargreaves Pty Ltd

N.M.P. Pty Ltd

P.R. Adams Pty Ltd

Peter Stoitse Transport Pty

Ltd Ropaan Nominees Pty Ltd

Scorpio Foods Pty Ltd

Southern Stockfeeds (Operations) Pty

Ltd Tolosa Holdings Pty Ltd

56,250

17,578

100,000

28,000

80,000

200,000

7,500

25,000

35,000

15,000

50,000

50,000

30,000

58,000

20,000

150,000

1,505

20,000

20,000

250,000

75,000

10,000

50,000

Total 1,348,833

VICTORIAN COMMUNITY SUPPORT GRANTSOrganisation Payment $

Cardinia Shire Council 152,000

City of Whittlesea 100,000

Corangamite Shire Council 25,000

Hepburn Shire Council 40,000

Total 317,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS PROVINCIAL CADETSHIPS PROGRAMOrganisation Payment $

2020 Engineering Solutions Pty

Ltd Ausrapid Inc

Australian Eatwell Pty

Ltd Benalla Health

BM Civil Engineers Pty Ltd

Buloke Shire Council

Campaspe Shire Council

Cardell Accountants Pty

Ltd

Crowe Horwath (Aust) Pty

Ltd Crowther & Sadler Pty

Ltd Dimboola Primary

School

DN Vision Pty Ltd

Dunstan Farmers Engineering Pty

Ltd Ecotecture Design Group

Gerard Brandrick & Associates Pty

Ltd Gippsland Lakes Community

Health Hardwicks Meat Works Pty Ltd

Mallee Physio

Messenger's Pharmacy

MGR Solicitors Pty Ltd

Mildura Rural City Council

Murray Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network

Inc Murrindindi Shire Council

Northeast Health Wangaratta

Planning Institute of Australia

Ltd Ryan Legal Services Pty

Ltd SLM Lawyers Pty Ltd

Swan Hill District Health

The Sovereign Hill Museums

Association Warrnambool City Council

3,750

500

500

12,750

2,000

1,500

500

4,750

1,000

1,000

500

3,750

4,250

500

4,250

3,750

500

1,000

500

7,500

8,500

20,250

8,500

12,750

21,373

4,250

1,000

4,250

1,000

500

4,250

Total 141,373

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 62

ECONOMIC I N F R A S T R U C T U R E

GRANT ANNOUNCEMENTSIn 2014-15 the following economic infrastructure projects were announced:

Organisation ProjectAnnounced amount $

ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM

Ararat Rural City Council Ararat Arts Precinct Redevelopment 3,700,000

Brookfie ld Regional Networks Energy for the Regions - Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 70,000,000(Victoria) Pty Limited Supply for Eleven Regional Towns*

Gippsland Water Corporation Labertouche Water Main Replacement Project 569,929

Goulburn Valley Region Water Dedicated Water Supply for MGC Cobram 1,900,000Authority

Latrobe City Council Hazelwood Pondage Foreshore Enhancement Project 1,000,000

Parks Victoria Grampians Peaks Trail - Stage Two 1,200,000

Rural City of Wangaratta Wangaratta Livestock Exchange Redevelopment 500,000

Swan Hill Rural City Council Chisholm Reserve Motor Sports Complex Redevelopment 2,000,000

Unilever Australia Limited Unilever Tatura Investment Project 879,930

ViPlus Dairy Pty Ltd ViPlus Toora Milk Plant Development - Stage 2 1,500,000

Warrnambool City Council Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Renewal Project 1,950,000

GEELONG ADVANCEMENT FUND

City of Greater Geelong Central Geelong (Malop Street to Myers Street) 3,000,000Revitalisation Project

Deakin Residential Services Pty Ltd Geelong Student Accommodation Project 853,710

GOULBURN VALLEY INDUSTRY AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUND

ACN Orchards Pty Ltd ACN Orchards Export Opportunity Expansion Project 60,000

Barolli Orchards Pty Ltd Barolli Export Expansion Opportunity Project 90,000

Casalare Pty Ltd Kyabram Food Packing and Filling Facility 72,000

Kagome Foods Australia Pty Ltd Installation of a Permanent Beetroot Line 200,000

Pactum Dairy Group Pty Ltd Pactum Dairy Group Future Ready 1,000,000

Tatura Abattoirs Pty Ltd Tatura Abattoirs Expansion Project 1,200,000

The Trustee for Boumbis Operations Boumbis Orchards Export Expansion Opportunity Project 60,000Trust

The Trustee for Daniel Tripoli Family Toolamba Fresh Expansion Project 30,000Trust

W Ryan Abattoirs Pty Ltd Ryan Export Upgrade Project 1,375,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG

Organisation ProjectAnnounced amount $

LATROBE VALLEY INDUSTRY AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUND

Alysium Gardens Pty Ltd Alysium Gardens Aged Care 420,000

Australian Fresh Salads Pty Ltd Vegetable Processing Expansion Project 200,000

Brandy Creek Winery & View Cafe Brandy Creek Spa and Wellness Centre 250,000

CTE-Custom Transport Equipment CTE - Weerong Road Expansion 200,000Pty Ltd

K & R J Matthews Quarries Pty Ltd Tyers Quarry Plant Upgrade 100,000

Latrobe City Council Gippsland Heavy Industry Park - Infrastructure Project 2,500,000

Latrobe Community Health Service Stage 2: Latrobe Valley University Training Clinic & Dental 420,000Prosthetic Laboratory

Latrobe Valley Bus Lines Pty Ltd Latrobe Valley Bus Lines Workshop and Body Shop Upgrade 50,000

Latrobe Valley Sands Latrobe Valley Sands Expansion Project 50,000

Park Avenue Pty Ltd Clean Room Laundry Expansion 150,000

Riviera Farms Pty Ltd Infrastructure & Processing Expansion Project 135,000

Spectrum Sales Pty Ltd Spectrum Outbound Sales 50,000

MURRAY-DARLING BASIN REGIONAL ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION PROGRAM (VIC)

Gannawarra Shire Council Koondrook Wharf Development 500,000

Murray Dairy Inc Murray Dairy Accelerating Change 485,969

Shire of Campaspe Echuca Riverfront Development 1,300,000

Swan Hill Rural City Council Heartbeat of the Murray Experience 933,333

Workco Ltd Upgrade of Longerenong College Student Residential 666,667Facilites

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 64

GRANT PAYMENTSIn 2014-15 the following payments were made towards economic infrastructure projects:

Organisation ProjectAnnounced amount $

ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE PRO JECTS

Australian Paper Pty Limited Optimised Fibre and Water Efficiency Project 1,500,000

Bendigo Agricultural Show Society Development of the Victorian Regional Exhibition Complex - 100,000Inc Bendigo (Stage 2)

Burra Foods Pty Ltd Infant Formula Water Initiatives 500,000

Central Gippsland Region Water Labertouche Water Main Replacement Project 209,929Corporation

Central Goldfields Shire Council Carisbrook Renewal Park 441,433

City of Greater Bendigo O'Keefe Rail Trail Extension - Axedale to Heathcote 300,000

City of Greater Geelong Geelong Library and Heritage Centre (GLHC) 6,000,000

Colac Otway Shire Old Beechy Rail Trail 100,000

East Gippsland Shire Council Bastion Point Ocean Access Project 3,415,000

East Gippsland Shire Council East Bairnsdale Infrastructure Enhancement Project 233,000

Ecofuels Pty Ltd Madowla Park Integrated Bio-energy Project 50,000

Falls Creek Alpine Resort Development of Mountain Bike and Walking Trail Facilities 800,000Management Board at Falls Creek Alpine Resort

Federation University Australia - Growing the University of Ballarat Technology Park 275,000Ballarat

Glenelg Shire Council Portland Airport Redevelopment 590,000

Golden Plains Shire Council Infrastructure to Expand Intensive Agriculture for Food 1,900,000Security and Economic Development

Goulburn Valley Region Water Tatura Abattoirs Expansion - Sewage Pump Station and 200,000Corporation Rising Main

Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water Landsborough Valley Water Supply Pipeline Project 1,187,500Corporation

Hazeldene's Chicken Farm Pty Ltd Hazeldene's Water and Wastewater Security Project 24,000

Kinross Farm Pty Ltd King Parrot Creek Power Upgrade to Enable the Expansion 35,000of Kinross Farms

Latrobe City Council Moe Rail Precinct Revitalisation Project Stage 1 1,000,000

Mansfield Shire Council Mt Buller Mt Stirling EPIC Mountain Bike Trail Project - 66,445Element Two

Mars Australia Pty Ltd Utilities Efficiency Investment 300,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG

Organisation ProjectAnnounced amount $

ENERGY FOR THE REGIONS PROJECTS

Australian Gas Networks (SA) Limited Energy for the Regions - Expansion of Supply Capacity for Mildura

2,722,500

Australian Gas Networks (Vic) Pty Ltd Supply of Natural Gas to Koo Wee Rup 1,575,000

Brookfie ld Regional Networks (Victoria) Pty Limited

Energy for the Regions - Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Supply for Eleven Regional Towns

10,000,000

Multinet Gas (Db No 1) Pty Ltd & Multinet Gas (Db No 2) Pty Ltd

Supply of Natural Gas to Warburton 1,406,000

SPI Networks (GAS) Pty Ltd Supply of Natural Gas to Avoca 2,097,250

SPI Networks (GAS) Pty Ltd Supply of Natural Gas to Bannockburn 2,244,000

SPI Networks (GAS) Pty Ltd Supply of Natural Gas to Winchelsea 1,039,000

Mars Australia Pty Ltd Utilities Efficiency Investment 300,000

Mildura Rural City Council Mildura Riverfront Parklands Project 5,250,000

Murrindindi Shire Council Yea Wetlands Environmental Centre 249,850

North East Region Water Corporation Bright Off River Water Storage 600,000

Pactum Dairy Group Pty Ltd Ultra High Temperature Dairy Milk Processing Plant 250,000

Parks Victoria Grampians Peaks Trail 798,819

Parks Victoria Great Ocean Walk Experience 1,000,000

Peninsula Searoad Transport Pty Ltd Searoad Ferries Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Upgrade Project 575,000

Phillip Island Nature Park Board of Nobbies and Summerland Peninsula Tourism Expansion 700,000Management Inc Project

Sonac Australia Pty Ltd Sonac Australia Production Expansion and Facility 343,000Modernisation

South Gippsland Shire Council Great Southern Rail Trail Extension (Foster to Welshpool) Project

400,000

Southern Grampians Shire Council Hamilton Airport Upgrade 407,164

Swan Hill Rural City Council Chisholm Reserve Motor Sports Complex Redevelopment 1,000,000

University of Melbourne International Centre of Excellence in Water Management - 625,000Dookie Infrastructure Upgrade - Phase 1

Urban Renewal Authority Victoria Junction Place, Central Wodonga - Urban Renewal Initiative 2,000,000

Victorian Agricultural Shows Ltd Rural Showgrounds and Field Days Minor Capital Works 83,117Program (Round 2)

Victorian Farmers’ Federation Cattle Underpass Program (CUPS) 940,673

Warrnambool City Council Warrnambool Intermodal Terminal Upgrade 116,971

Warrnambool City Council Warrnambool Regional Aviation Park 290,000

West Wimmera Shire Council Kaniva Industrial Estate Extension 191,000

Wodonga City Council Logic Fatigue Management and Trailer Interchange Project 164,000

Wodonga Rendering Pty Ltd Wodonga Abattoirs - Tri-Generation Plant 200,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 66

GRANT PAYMENTS (cont’d)

Organisation ProjectAnnounced amount $

GEELONG ADVANCEMENT FUND PRO

JECTS

Barwon Health St Mary's Hall Redevelopment and Associated Health Support 1,000,000Facilities

Deakin Residential Services Pty Ltd Geelong Student Accommodation Project 400,000

Karingal Inc Kommercial Factory Development 150,000

GOULBURN VALLEY INDUSTRY AND

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND PROJECTS

Boumbis Orchards Pty Ltd Boumbis Orchards Export Expansion Opportunity Project 20,000

Casalare Pty Ltd Kyabram Food Packing and Filling Facility 12,000

Toolamba Fresh Produce Pty Ltd Toolamba Fresh Expansion Project 10,000

LATROBE VALLEY INDUSTRY AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUND PROJECTS

ACME Enterprises Pty Ltd Brandy Creek Spa and Wellness Centre 30,000

Australian Fresh Salads Pty Ltd Vegetable Processing Expansion Project 125,000

Australian Trailer Manufacturers Pty Relocation & Expansion of Australian Trailer Manufacturers 60,000Ltd

CTE-Custom Transport Equipment CTE - Weerong Rd Expansion 50,000Pty Ltd

Elite Pack Elite Pack - Food Tray Production Expansion 100,000

Fishers (Latrobe Valley) Pty Ltd Fisher's Pallet and Wood Treatment Upgrade 326,500

GBG Concrete and Constructions Precast Concrete Panel Facility Expansion 37,500Pty Ltd

Gibsons Groundspread Pty Ltd Gibson Ground Spread Expansion Project 85,000

Gippsland Body Builders Pty Ltd Darcan Way Expansion And Equipment Upgrade 50,000

Hydro Australia Pty Ltd Hydro Australia Capability Improvement Project 40,000

K. & R.J. Matthews Quarries Pty Ltd Tyers Quarry Plant Upgrade 60,000

Latrobe City Council Growing Aerospace Manufacturing at Latrobe Regional Airport 500,000

Latrobe Valley Bus Lines Pty Ltd Latrobe Valley Bus Lines Workshop and Body Shop Upgrade 30,000

Latrobe Valley Sands Latrobe Valley Sands Expansion Project 30,000

Maffra Farmhouse Cheese Pty Ltd Maffra Cheese Company Capacity Expansion Project 37,500

Maffra Farmhouse Cheese Pty Ltd Soft and Club Cheese Production Expansion Project 60,000

Morwell Shopfitters Pty Ltd MSF Advanced Manufacturing Processes 45,000

Narkoojee Pty Ltd Narkoojee Winery - Casual Dining Facility 5,000

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG

Organisation ProjectAnnounced amount $

PineGro Products Pty Ltd New Packaging Business - Pinegro Morwell 70,000

Riviera Farms Pty Ltd Infrastructure & Processing Expansion Project 100,000

Rotafab Pty Ltd Machine Tool Modernisation and Integration 13,307

Safetech Pty Ltd Safetech Capacity Expansion 120,000

Sage Computer Support Pty Ltd Sage Technology - Mobilisation and User Interface Unification 50,000

Spectrum Sales Pty Ltd Spectrum Outbound Sales 25,000

Steeline Gippsland Pty Ltd Steeline Gippsland Expanding Capability Project 62,500

STR Inspection Services Pty Ltd STR Business Diversification Project - Non Destructive Testing

36,084

Victorian American Imports Pty Ltd Standing Drive Infrastructure, Purchase, Development and Production Expansion Project

57,420

MURRAY-DARLING BASIN REGIONAL ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION PROGRAM (VIC)

Gannawarra Shire Council Koondrook Wharf Development 300,000

Murray Dairy Inc Accelerating Change 100,000

Workco Ltd Upgrade of Longerenong College Student Residential Facilities

900,000

Total 61,593,462

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 68

OUTPUT TARGETS AND PERFORMANCE

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REGIONAL CITIES Unit of

Measure2014-15Target

2014-15Actual

Quantity

number 140 70Economic development, service delivery and communitycapacity projects funded

Regional infrastructure projects approved by Minister number 100 124

Rural councils participating in Rural Councils Victoria (RCV) number 100 100Network

Quantity

% 80 93Participant satisfaction with implementation of RegionalDevelopment Victoria (RDV) programs

Putting Locals First Fund projects recommended by % 85 100Regional Development Committees approved for funding

Regional councils participating at the regional expo % 80 100

Timeliness

Grants paid within the timeframe specified within the terms and conditions of the funding agreement: Local Government Infrastructure Program

% 75 75

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15FINANCE PG

REVENUE AND EXPENSESControlled revenue and expenses for the year ended 30 June 2015:

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REGIONAL CITIES

2015$’000

2014$’000

Income from Transactions

59,149 59,329Output appropriations*

Regional Growth Fund Appropriations 121,377 136,000

Grants Received 12,256 7,740

Interest 4,796 5,016

Other Revenue 9,510 3,687

Total Income from transactions 207,088 211,772

Expenses from transactions

(143,928) (155,191)Grants and other payments

Employee-related expenses (25,810) (21,796)

Depreciation and amortisation (1,267) (1,084)

Capital asset charge (527) (527)

Other operating expenses (15,306) (17,164)

Interest (21) (47)

Total Expenses from transactions (186,859) (195,809)

Operating surplus (deficit) 20,229 15,963

*Includes $3.623 million approved in 2015 for the Regional Growth Fund through a Treasurer’s Advance.

The balance of the Regional Growth Fund Trust at 30 June 2015 was$258.351 million. The funds are held in trust to meet existing commitments due in future periods.

The financial operations of Regional Development Victoria are included in the financial reports of the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 FINANCE PG 70

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEConsolidated financial statements for the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) and RDV are contained in the 2014/15 Annual Report published by DEDJTR.

This report contains RDV’s Output Targets and Performance and Revenue and Expenses for the year ended 30 June 2015.

COMPLIANCECompliance requirements in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994 and the directions of the Minister for Finances were managed by DSDBI on behalf of RDV.

Consolidated compliance reporting information for RDV for the 2014-15 financial year is contained in the 2014-15 Annual Report published by RDV.

LEGISLATIONRDV was responsible for the following legislation:

> The Regional Development Victoria Act 2002.

> The Regional Growth Fund Act 2011.

> The Albury Wodonga Agreement (Repeal) Act 2003.

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 CONTACT INFORMATION PG

CONTACT INFORMATIONFor more information regarding Regional Development Victoria (RDV) contact a representative in your region.

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT VICTORIA OFFICES

Ballarat111 Armstrong Street Nth, Ballarat 3350Tel 03 5327 2800Fax 03 5327 2830E information.ballarat@rdv.vic.gov.au

BendigoLevel 1, 56-60 King Street, Bendigo 3550Tel 03 4433 8000Fax 03 4433 8099E information.bendigo@rdv.vic.gov.au

GeelongLevel 2, Harrison Place237 Ryrie Street, Geelong 3220Tel 03 5215 6000Fax 03 5215 6099E information.geelong@rdv.vic.gov.au

HorshamThe Grains Innovation Park122 Natimuk Road, Horsham 3400Tel 03 5381 2762Fax 03 5381 2514E information.horsham@rdv.vic.gov.au

Mildura131 Langtree Avenue, Mildura 3500Tel 03 5051 2000Fax 03 5051 2020E information.mildura@rdv.vic.gov.au

Shepparton79a Wyndham Street, Shepparton 3632 Tel 03 5895 4100Fax 03 5822 2554E information.shepparton@rdv.vic.gov.au

Swan Hill324 Campbell Street, Swan Hill 3585Tel 03 5036 4823E information.swanhill@rdv.vic.gov.au

Traralgon33 Breed Street, Traralgon 3844Tel 03 5116 7300Fax 03 5175 0324E information.traralgon@rdv.vic.gov.au

WangarattaWangaratta Government Centre, 1st Floor, 62 Ovens Street, Wangaratta 3677Tel 03 5722 7101Fax 03 5722 7109E information.wangaratta@rdv.vic.gov.au

WarrnamboolOld Police Station, South West TAFE, 9 Gilles Street, Warrnambool 3280Tel 03 5561 4135Fax 03 5561 3851E information.warrnambool@rdv.vic.gov.au

Wodonga111-113 Hume Street, Wodonga 3689Tel 02 6059 0200Fax 02 6059 0250E information.wodonga@rdv.vic.gov.au

RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 ACCESSIBILITY PG 72

ACCESSIBILITY

If you would like this publication in an accessible format, such as large print or audio, please phone 13 22 15 (voice calls), or email rdv@rdv.vic.gov.au.

This document is also available in an accessible format on the internet at www.rdv.vic.gov.au.

Published by the Victorian Government Regional Development VictoriaAnnual Report 2014-2015

September 2015 Melbourne Victoria

© Copyright State of Victoria 2015

This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.

ISSN 1448-9341

ContactRegional Development VictoriaLevel 31, 121 Exhibition StreetMelbourne 3000

T 13 22 15

E rdv@rdv.vic.gov.au www.rdv.vic.gov.au

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RDV ANNUAL REPORT 14-15 CONTACT INFORMATION PG

www.rdv.vic.gov.auAuthorised by the Victorian Government, 1Treasury Place, Melbourne