The federal government’s promise last Thursday April 28 of $700,000 worth of funding for the Bundian Way project has delighted everyone involved, but all warn the ‘road is long’.
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Bundian Way manager Noel Whittem thanked the Commonwealth government for their show of commitment, particularly Minister for Indigenous Affairs’ Nigel Scullion and member for Eden-Monaro Peter Hendy.
“Some of the funding will be used to secure the Keeping Place (Jigamy Farm archives) and develop it as the Bundian Way gateway, and it will also secure the rangers’ employment to continue with track work,” Mr Whittem said on Monday May 2.
“We are looking forward to future negotiations with the Commonwealth to secure further funding for the cultural tourism enterprise that we’re calling the Bundian Way Experiences.”
Acting CEO of the Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council Les Kosez agrees more funding is urgently needed to realise the bigger picture.
“Whilst the funds are helping us take another big step towards getting the infrastructure in place, unfortunately the funds are unable to address the critical needs of management and our business capacity to initiate the business enterprise of the Bundian Way,” Mr Kosez said.
“We want to get off the grant-funding roundabout and work independently.
“We are only asking for the government to help us realize our dream of sustainability.”
Former labour member for Eden-Monaro Mike Kelly, who will be contesting for the Eden-Monaro seat next election, said he for one wants to see that dream realized.
“I’m keen to work with those involved with the project to get all the resources needed to be bring it into the fruition,” Dr Kelly said on Monday May 2.
“From my understanding of the project, I don’t believe $700,000 is adequate to do it.
“I’m prepared to work hard to make sure the full potential of this proposal is exploited. It’s part of my broader strategy for super charging tourism in the region.”
Towards this end, Bundian Way advisory committee chair John Blay called for State government partnership to help facilitate complex management issues.
“One third of the Bundian Way is in national park, one third State Forest and one third Crown reserve. Some are run by councils, some by State government,” Mr Blay said.
“The bureaucratic processes involved are very expensive. We really need whole government support to cross those boundaries.”