Building on our shire’s agricultural history, the centre would seek to be a tourist attraction for the region, demonstrating field production, small scale manufacturing and energy initiatives, and featuring interactive and themed displays.

It will also educate the next generation of farmers so they can evolve, innovate and adapt to change.

While the project is a big ask, with no other facility like it in Australia, the outcome would deliver big results for our shire. It would bring visitors to our region, create local jobs and be a leader in agriculture education, innovation and sustainability.

Earlier this year, the council was pleased to contribute $20,000 towards a business case for the project. A business case will enable major funding to be sought from the state and federal governments, bringing what is currently an inspired idea, to fruition.

Destination NSW, the leading government agency for tourism in our state, is always on the look-out for ‘hero products’, those opportunities or attractions that define our region and make them unique. This could just be our hero product – an attraction that could not only define us within NSW, but nationally. 

Jo will be making a presentation at this Thursday’s council meeting, to be held from 6pm at the Council Chambers in Gunning. I encourage anyone with an interest in the project to come along and hear more.