One Gippsland has welcomed two new faces to its team: the interim chief executive officer at Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) Charee Smith and new CEO at Food and Fibre Gippsland, Simon Johnson.
One Gippsland chairman Cr Nathan Hersey said Charee and Simon were valued additions to One Gippsland.
“Charee and Simon each bring new insights, perspectives and experience to our team and will further strengthen our advocacy work, particularly on issues of importance to GLaWAC and the food and fibre sector such as growing visitor economy and regional connectivity,” Cr Hersey said.
“The region attracts more 10 million visitors each year, supporting 3,000 businesses and contributing $2.4 billion to the economy, but Gippsland’s natural beauty, Aboriginal culture and unique visitor experiences are under-utilised assets able to drive significant economic growth.
“The visitor economy is key to diversifying Gippsland’s future economic base and creating new jobs. Investment in tourism infrastructure and storytelling can help Gippsland stand out in a competitive market.
“That’s why One Gippsland will continue to ask for government investment in priority tourism projects, including the Nanjet Gunaikurnai Cultural Tourism Project near Wilson’s Promontory. This $55 million project comprises the phased development of what will be Victoria’s largest Aboriginal cultural tourism experience.
“We are also working with our government partners to secure investment in our priority projects including the San Remo Road Upgrade, stage two of the Leongatha Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route, Sale’s Alternate Truck Route and the Traralgon Bypass. These projects are essential for improving safety, efficiency and regional connectivity for all road users.
“Our freight network also must support Gippsland’s food and fibre producers and efficient access to airports and ports is vital for our local industries including agriculture, manufacturing
and energy.
“During the federal election campaign, Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King committed $3 million to plan for another One Gippsland priority project: essential road network upgrades around Drouin and Warragul.
“We’ll be back in Canberra and Spring Street soon and plan to meet with decision makers, including Minister King, to continue to build understanding and support for our funding and
policy priorities.
“We’re looking forward to having Charee and Simon around the table as we advocate for Gippsland and thank their predecessors Daniel Miller and Ben Gebert for their valuable contribution,” Cr Hersey said.
BACKGROUND
Nanjet Gunaikurnai Cultural Tourism Project – $55 million
The Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) bought a 103ha property near the entry to Wilsons Promontory National Park. It also adjoins the RAMSAR-listed Corner Inlet Marine and Coastal Park. The lower section of the property has undergone significant rehabilitation to improve the habitat and attract wildlife. Approval has been granted for a tourism development to help address a shortage of visitor accommodation in the Wilsons Prom area.
A business case is nearing completion for the phased development of the site. Features would include Gunaikurnai mob camping with facilities to support caring for country initiatives; interpretive and educational cultural experiences for visitors, and Gunaikurnai-inspired visitor accommodation.
