Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the Northern Rivers is set to benefit from a $6 million expansion of Summerland House Farm, a business of House with No Steps, under the Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
“This will have major flow-on benefits across the community including more jobs for people with a disability through increased agri-tourism, ensuring our region will continue to thrive and prosper into the future,” he said.
“This is a fantastic outcome for our community, with the project receiving more than $4.5 million from the Federal Government.
“The project will expand existing facilities at Summerland House Farm, better serving the regions’ macadamia industry through upgraded dehusking and sorting facilities and developing a nationally significant tourism experience.
“This will include integrating existing horticulture activities into the tourism experience, showcasing the regions’ produce through an edible arboretum, a farmyard animal barn, farm-themed play and educational attractions and equipment. There will also be upgrades to parking, the road network and amenities.
“The Government has a plan for regional Australia and we are focused on getting it done. It’s a plan to create more jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities, like ours.”
Brett Lacey, Executive Director Businesses & Children’s Services of House with No Steps said this is a transformational project for the site and indeed the region.
“The team is incredibly excited by the development ahead,” he said.
“We have the privilege of employing 90 employees with a disability at the farm, and with this funding we’re thrilled to be able to create even more purposeful employment opportunities.
The Federal Government is contributing $4.5 million to the project with House with No Steps, David Lindsay local donor, and the Macadamia Processing Company contributing the balance.
