Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was the man in the spotlight in Eden on Monday, but it was Premier Mike Baird who brought his cheque book.
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Mr Turnbull and Mr Baird – flanked by Eden-Monaro MP Peter Hendy and NSW Infrastructure Minister and Bega MP Andrew Constance – announced $29million in new state government funding to complete the long-awaited wharf extension project.
In a joint statement, Mr Turnbull, Mr Baird and Dr Hendy said the project was expected to create 86 ongoing jobs, including in tourism, hospitality, aquaculture and stevedoring.
Their announcement signals the green light for what has been called a “future proof” design for the breakwater wharf.
The new 90-metre wharf extension will enable the world’s largest cruise ships to dock on the NSW Far South Coast for the first time.
Cruise liners and other ships of up to 260 metres will be able to berth in all weather, and vessels up to 330m depending on conditions.
A massive 230,000 cubic metres of dredging will be undertaken.
Eden Chamber of Commerce president Jenny Robb said she was “thrilled” with the announcement.
“This takes the total to a massive $44million with the additional $10million for the safe harbour project still there," Ms Robb said.
“Regardless of your political leanings, it is great to see our state and federal leaders recognising the potential of this region.
"The great news is that the money for the wharf is state funding and the federal election has no bearing on it.
“It's real and we can now get on with the job,” she said.
Bega Valley Shire Council general manager Leanne Barnes said the funding was a “significant commitment and demonstration of confidence in Eden and this region into the future”.
Ms Barnes said the fully funded wharf extension project would now enable the cruise industry to “continue to go from strength to strength”.
Funding totalling $5.6million to upgrade Merimbula Airport was also announced.
Dr Hendy holds the bellwether seat of Eden-Monaro with a 2.6 per cent margin.
- MORE ON THE PM’S VISIT, Page 4