Liberal Candidate for Gilmore, Ann Sudmalis today (2 September 2013) announced that a Coalition Government will invest $2.3 million to facilitate a regional facility for training and sporting activities, improve our local environment and encourage young people to get fit and healthy with a focus on providing more job opportunities for local youth.
“A Coalition Government will invest in the future of our local youth, from fitness and sporting initiatives through to training and employment,’’ Mrs Sudmalis said.
The $2.3 million dollar investment includes:
- $2 million investment in the next stage of the Dunn & Lewis Centre in Ulladulla leading to employment, training and tourism opportunities.
- $300,000 grant to Shoalhaven City Council for new youth recreation facilities such as BMX tracks and skate park facilities in the region.
- Four Green Army projects with places for almost 40 unemployed young people to gain qualifications and confidence with the community benefiting through environmental assets at the conclusion of the projects. Projects include; Foreshore protection works at Lake Conjola, restoration and protection of the Shoalhaven River along Bolong Road, Jerrara Arboretum and Wetlands Reserve and the Killalea Reserve path/cycle way to Minnamurra and bush regeneration.
“The Dunn and Lewis Foundation funding will enable training opportunities, further generate income and result in a state of the art regional sporting and youth training centre.
“This is a project retiring Member for Gilmore Jo Gash has fought hard for and if elected I will continue her good work and always fight for community facilities like these.
“The very existence of the Centre is a testament to the hard work and tenacity of the Dunn and Lewis Foundation led by Ulladulla local Gayle Dunn. Gayle established the Foundation in 2003 as a lasting memorial to her son Craig and his friend Danny Lewis and the 86 other Australians who were tragic victims of the Bali Bombings of October 2003.
“Each of the four Green Army projects will be comprised of teams of up to 10 young people including a coordinator. Every participant in the Green Army will receive a training allowance, as well as gain valuable work skills and potential qualification in different areas of environmental remediation.
“This announcement is one part of the Coalition’s plan to reinvigorate employment in our region with a focus on youth by providing innovative and sustainable job opportunities,” Mrs Sudmalis concluded.