A Bathurst company that specialises in grain transport, storage and logistics is set for a major upgrade that will connect producers to export markets, boost road safety and create jobs, thanks to the NSW Government’s Regional Job Creation Fund.
Deputy Premier and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said a $300,000 grant will help Grainforce upgrade its current rail logistics facility in Bathurst, creating 15 sustainable jobs in the region when complete.
Mr Toole said upgrades will involve the modernisation of existing grain receival pits and raising and reconditioning 280m of rail line in the facility that will allow bulk grain transport from the northern, southern and western districts of NSW.
“Bulk rail freight significantly reduces the cost of transport for producers and increases the availability for regional producers from every corner of the state to quickly and cost effectively access export markets,” Mr Toole said.
“Using rail to transport grain from Bathurst to Sydney uses half as much fuel so it’s better for the environment and also removes heavy vehicles going across the mountains which increases road safety and reduces wear and tear on our roads.”
Mr Toole said the $130 million Regional Job Creation Fund aims to create more than 6,500 new direct jobs in regional NSW by providing incentives to expand and keep operations in regional areas.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy and helping companies like Grainforce expand its operations stimulates local and regional economies, boosts livelihoods and creates local employment opportunities in Bathurst,” Mr Toole said.
“Providing businesses with the opportunity to fast track their growth plans and expand their operations means they can increase their production, attract more investment and create new jobs today, which is great news for the local economy.
“Setting businesses up for success helps the local community grow and new jobs mean more people earning a wage and spending their pay packets in local stores, cafés, restaurants and on local goods and services.”
The Regional Job Creation Fund supports eligible businesses with grants to purchase new equipment, expand facilities, acquire technology, create new production lines or establish businesses in regional NSW.