The state’s last remaining specialist white cypress sawmill will expand its operational capacity through a mill in Baradine thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government’s Regional Job Creation Fund.
NSW Nationals Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier Sam Farraway said a $1 million grant will enable Grants Holdings Co Pty Ltd to recommission Baradine Sawmill and outfit it with new machinery and upgraded equipment, supporting the creation of 50 full-time jobs.
Mr Farraway said new machinery will allow the sawmilling company to boost production of its natural, termite-resistant Australian cypress used in a wide range of building projects.
“Grants Holding Co Pty Ltd specialises in the use of highly durable Australian cypress for cladding, decking, feature fencing and flooring of homes and buildings, as well as cypress chips, garden mixes, bark mulch and sawdust,” Mr Farraway said.
“This project will allow the company to continue servicing clients both here and overseas with its customised operations, unlocking jobs in the Warrumbungle Shire and ensuring regional NSW leads the way in cypress wood production.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the $100 million Regional Job Creation Fund aims to create 5000 new direct jobs in regional NSW by helping businesses expand production and provide incentives to move operations to the bush.
“Regional NSW is the engine room of the state and providing support to companies like Grants Holdings Co Pty Ltd to expand their operations helps to stimulate regional economies, boost livelihoods and provide local employment,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This fund builds a solid foundation for job creation now and into the future by allowing businesses to fast-track their growth plans and expand their operations.
“Setting businesses up for success helps the local community grow, as new jobs mean more people earning a wage and spending their pay packets in local stores, cafes, restaurants and on local services.”
The Regional Job Creation Fund supports eligible businesses in driver industries with grants to purchase new equipment, expand facilities, create new production lines or establish businesses in regional NSW.
The Regional Job Creation Fund has now closed. For more information, go to: investregionalnsw.com/RJCFund.