Press Releases

ENTRIES OPEN FOR 10th YEAR OF PREMIER’S SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS

Tue, 22 May 2012 04:41:00 GMT

Victorian businesses, community groups, education institutions and government agencies are invited to enter the 10^th anniversary year of the Premier’s Sustainability Awards.

“The awards recognise businesses, institutions, communities and individuals that have demonstrated leadership in taking actions that not only contribute to their bottom line but also foster a more sustainable future for Victoria,” said Nationals Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp.

“This year, the tenth year of the awards, there is an improved focus on the built environment with a new category which recognises excellence in sustainable design, as well as a performance category which focuses on improved resource efficiency and cost savings,” Mr Crisp said.

There are ten award categories in 2012:

• Large Business

• Small and Medium Enterprises

• Products or Services

• Built Environment – Performance

• Built Environment – Design

• Community

• Local Government

• State Government

• Tertiary Education

• Premier’s Recognition Award

“Category winners also have the opportunity to win the prestigious Premier’s Recognition Award.” said Mr Crisp.

“Businesses and organisations that make the commitment to sustainability reap the benefits economically, socially and environmentally. These awards acknowledge professional commitment to leading innovation and staying ahead of the pack.”

The awards are managed on behalf of the Premier by Sustainability Victoria.

Information sessions will be held on 31 May and 13 June to provide applicants with assistance in submitting applications. Entries close Friday 13 July.

For more information please go to www.sustainabilityawards.vic.gov.au

MILDURA TO BECOME AN INLAND AVIATION HUB

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:53:00 GMT

Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, has welcomed today’s announcement by Rex Airlines of their intent to restore a variety of air links in and out of Mildura.

The initiative will see Rex reinstate air links to Sydney and Adelaide and introduce a link to Broken Hill from 9 July, thus enhancing the tourism market for both Mildura and Broken Hill.

“Rex’s confidence in Mildura is a welcome boost to both business and tourism.

“The Victorian Coalition Government investment with Mildura Airport Pty Ltd to upgrade the airport terminal has acted as an investment catalyst to businesses wishing to invest in aviation services to Mildura and Rex has responded with the reintroduction of these services.

“The Coalition increased it’s initial $3M for the airport to $5M to ensure a prompt start to the upgrade project.

“This excellent news for the Mildura region and I welcome today’s announcement.” Mr Crisp stated.

INNOVATIVE RESPITE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY IN MILDURA

Mon, 21 May 2012 04:41:00 GMT

People with disabilities and their families and carers in Mildura now have better access, greater flexibility, and more choice in respite support services, Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, said today.

The Mildura branch will receive part of $20,000 granted to St Luke’s Anglicare to deliver innovative school holiday respite support for people with a disability in the Mildura electorate.

"Leading up to the election, increased access to support people with a disability, their families and carers was a key priority of this government and it is pleasing to see that we are delivering on that commitment."

“This money will provide additional social and recreational alternatives for those carers and parents with school aged children, and provide them with an opportunity to recharge their batteries during school holiday periods.’ Mr Crisp said.

Community Services Minister Mary Wooldridge said that more than 30 service providers have been selected to deliver innovative respite support and school holiday respite support as part of the Victorian Coalition Government’s $21 million plan to improve disability respite and carer support services across the state.

“By making it easier to access a broader range of respite support services, the government is providing people with a disability, their families, and carers more choice,” Ms Wooldridge said.

“The Victorian Coalition Government’s commitment to improving respite support services will ultimately lead to improved quality of life for Victorians with a disability.”

“The Government has listened to Victorians with a disability, their families and carers and are funding respite at the times when they want it most,” said Mr Crisp.

FUNDS AVAILABLE TO STRENGTHEN MEN’S SHEDS IN MILDURA ELECTORATE

Thu, 17 May 2012 06:23:00 GMT

The Nationals Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, said grants of up to $30,000 from the Strengthening Men’s Sheds Grants program 2012 are now available to support the redevelopment of men’s sheds.

“The Strengthening Men’s Sheds grants initiative is part of a $4 million package over four years that would help men’s sheds increase their capacity to attract new members, operate sustainably and continue to make valuable contributions to local communities,” Mr Crisp said.

Men’s sheds have increased in popularity and number over the past five years and there are now about 160 in Victoria.

Mr Crisp said men’s sheds provide a place for regular contact with other men and a range of practical activities including carpentry, horticulture, cooking and restorations.

“Men’s sheds give men a place to go where they can meet, talk, get involved in their local community as well as learn about the importance of men’s health and wellbeing issues,” Mr Crisp said.

In announcing the Strengthening Men’s Sheds Grants program 2012, the Minister for Community Services Mary Wooldridge said the Coalition Government recognises the significant role men’s sheds play in local communities through engaging a diverse range of men, including those with a disability, farmers, war veterans, retirees and the unemployed.

Through the Strengthening Men’s Sheds Program, $900,000 will be available to refurbish existing men’s sheds, with grants of up to $30,000 for assistance to redevelop and modify an existing shed to meet occupational health and safety and disability standards or to meet increased community demand for established shed activities.

“In providing this latest round of grants through the Strengthening Men’s Sheds Grants program 2012 the Coalition Government is supporting men’s sheds to continue to grow and thrive across our electorate,” Mr Crisp said.

Successful applicants will be required to match their grants on a 2:1 ratio.

This latest round of funding is in addition to the Men’s Shed Capacity Building Fund of $100,000 that is administered by the Victorian Men’s Sheds Association to provide small grants to develop informal networks and tackle issues of sustainability.

Applications for grants close on 13 July 2012. More information is available at: www.dhs.vic.gov.au/for-business-and-community/community-involvement/men-in-thecommunity/strengthening-mens-sheds

MILDURA ELECTORATE STUDENTS SET TO ADVANCE IN NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

Thu, 17 May 2012 23:17:00 GMT

Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, announced that eleven schools in the Mildura electorate will receive funding for students to volunteer in the community thanks to the Victorian Coalition Government’s $4.5 million Advance program.

National Volunteer Week will be held from 14-20 May 2012.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our local communities,” Mr Crisp said when detailing the participating schools.

“The State Government’s Advance program is designed to encourage more of our young people to become involved in their communities in a voluntary program or project.

“Our schools are well placed to facilitate this as they regularly develop partnerships with community organisations and the linking of these partnerships with opportunities for developing volunteering can provide very positive outcomes for our communities,” he said.

Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith announced that more than 420 schools and 17,000 young people will be participating in the Advance program in 2012.

“Advance is a fantastic program that encourages young people to get involved in their local community and strengthens local partnerships between schools and local community organisations and services.

“The program also provides young people with practical opportunities for mentoring and gaining new skills and training whilst learning more about their local community.

“Supporting young people to volunteer has a positive and lasting effect, not only on the individual, but the whole community,” Mr Smith said.

Advance is a $4.5 million flexible school-based program offered annually in Victorian Government secondary schools. It engages and provides opportunities for young people between the ages of 14-18 to actively participate in their community through volunteering, while learning valuable transferable skills.

Mr Crisp also thanked the countless volunteers in the Mildura electorate.

“I congratulate these schools and the initiative they have shown in putting their hands up for this program,” Mr Crisp said.

For more information on the Advance program go to

www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/advance

CRONOMBY TANKS WALKING TRACK TO RECEIVE FUNDING BOOST

Thu, 17 May 2012 23:18:00 GMT

Minister for Public Transport and Roads Terry Mulder today announced funding of $30,000 to invest in the upgrade of the Cronomby Tanks walking track in Woomelang.

Minister Mulder said the Government is committed to investing in regional transport and investing in pathways in our regional towns not only improves liveability but also provides a sense of connection.

“The Victorian Government is proud to support this initiative. Tracks and trails are a way of life for many regional communities, and improving and maintaining these pathways supports the local economy and tourism,” Mr Mulder said.

“This project is a great example of how the Victorian Government is working with regional councils to further develop and strengthen transport outcomes in regional Victoria.

“Whether cycling, walking, or mountain biking on one of the magnificent tracks and trails we have throughout regional Victoria, the State Government supports walking and cycling as a valuable form of exercise and recreation, and as a safe and convenient means of transport.”

The project is part of the Department of Transport’s Transport Investing in Regions initiative and involves improvement works for the walking tack at Cronomby Tanks. It provides vital infrastructure to an important recreational area used by people living in and visiting the area.

The project aims to provide better access to the Cronomby Tanks walking track which is an important local recreation area. Developing the track will encourage popular tourist activities such as bush walking, bird watching, fishing and camping.

These works complement the State Government’s investment of around $14.5 million in bicycle improvement works across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Member for Mildura Peter Crisp said the investment from Government was great news for the region and the start of what promises to be a great collaboration.

“This funding will enable much needed improvements to be made to the Cronomby Tanks walking track in Woomelang, enhancing the useability of the popular and beautiful recreational spot for locals and visitors alike,” Mr Crisp said.

“Outdoor life and tourism is an important part of our community and local economy. This project adds real value to the region by enhancing local amenity, liveability and improving connectivity which results in real social and economic benefits.”

The Cronomby Tanks walking track works will commence this year.

REGIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Thu, 17 May 2012 23:20:00 GMT

Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp today called for high-achievers in the Mildura region to be nominated for the 2012 Regional Achievement & Community Awards.

Mr Crisp said the Mildura region boasted a diverse and innovative range of businesses, a highly skilled workforce and proactive community groups that would be worthy nominees in this year’s Regional Achievement & Community Awards.

“Beginning in 2002, these awards have built a prestigious reputation over the past 10 years and I would strongly encourage people to consider nominating for one of the eight award categories on offer this year,” Mr Crisp said.

“The Victorian Coalition Government is especially pleased to provide $78,500 to sponsor five of the eight awards on offer this year. (A full list of awards below)

“The Coalition Government is sponsoring a range of awards that recognise regional businesses, individuals or community groups that make significant contributions to their communities or lead the way in sustainability and water efficiency,” Mr Crisp said.

The Coalition Government, through Regional Development Victoria, Parks Victoria and the Department of Sustainability and Environment is providing $15,500 for each of the five awards.

Mr Crisp said the Coalition Government was committed to driving development across the state and ensuring regional Victoria remained a key contributor to future growth and prosperity.

“The Coalition Government’s centerpiece for regional and rural Victoria is the $1 billion Regional Growth Fund (RGF) which is being used for strategic initiatives to accelerate population and business growth outside of Melbourne,” Mr Crisp said.

“We recently provided $3 million from the RGF to fund the first ever Regional Victoria Living Expo to provide further encouragement to the one in ten Melburnians who are already considering a move to regional Victoria.

“This is being backed by the Coalition Government’s Good Move Campaign which promotes all the benefits a regional lifestyle offers,” Mr Crisp said.

The 2012 Regional Achievement & Community Awards will be presented in Bendigo on 13 October.

The full list of award categories is below:

· Regional Development Victoria Business Achievement Award· Regional Development Victoria Trade and Career Achievement Award· Parks Victoria Regional Achiever Award· Parks Victoria Environment and Sustainability Award· Medibank Healthy Participation Award· Bluescope Distribution Leadership and Innovation Award· Department of Sustainability and Environment Water Efficiency Improvements Award· Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award

NEW FIRE STATION OPENS AT NANGILOC

Thu, 17 May 2012 23:51:00 GMT

The community of Nangiloc today officially celebrated the official opening of a new $500,000 fire station equipped with all the essential features required to boost community safety. Representing Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services Peter Ryan, Member for Mildura Peter Crisp MP said the new state-of-the-art building would improve response to emergencies and give members a better place from which to work. “Previously, the brigade was housed in a very small, basic shed with no kitchen or meeting room facilities,” Mr Crisp said. “This new station provides improved meeting and training facilities and includes an office, plenty of room for storage, and a motor room which allows enough space to house two vehicles.” Mr Crisp said the brigade and its 35 dedicated members did a tremendous job protecting lives and property since forming 42 years ago. As part of the official opening, 12 members were presented with long service awards, celebrating 330 collective years of dedication to CFA. Deputy Premier and Minister Emergency Services Peter Ryan said local volunteer agencies such as the Nangiloc Fire Brigade were the backbone of Victoria’s emergency service response.“The Victorian Coalition Government last week announced $56.8 million to boost the state’s emergency services infrastructure as part of the 2012-13 Victorian Budget, including more than $22 million to build or upgrade more CFA stations in regional areas and $12.3 million for more vehicles,” Mr Ryan said. Mr Ryan said the past decade had seen a consistent increase in demands on rural CFA brigades with total turnouts having increased by 59 per cent over the past 10 years. “More funding means CFA will be better resourced to enable a more effective and efficient fire fighting service, whilst providing enhanced safety for crews,” Mr Ryan said. “The Coalition Government is proud to support our emergency services agencies continue to undertake the valuable work they do around the clock, protecting Victorians.”

WATER UPGRADE FOR LAKE RESIDENTS

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:53:00 GMT

Lake Cullulleraine residents will receive better quality water for domestic use with the construction of a 2.5 kilometre enclosed water main and pump unit.

The $480,000 project has been jointly funded by Lower Murray Water and the Victorian Coalition Government through the latest round of the government’s Small Towns Water Quality Fund.

Member for Mildura Peter Crisp said as well as the construction of a water main and pump to service 35 properties, multiple pumps from the Lake Cullulleraine foreshore would be decommissioned, reducing potential health risks and improving the amenity of the area.

Mr Crisp said by improving water quality in Glenthompson, the growth and development of the wider region would also improve.

“This will deliver high quality water to the residents of Lake Cullulleraine, as well as enhancing the quality of stay for the many people who enjoy holidaying at the Lake.” Mr Crisp stated.

This latest round of works under the Small Towns Water Quality Fund includes eight projects which involve the building of pipelines, upgrades to water treatment plants and installation of a UV-treatment system.

More information about the Small Towns Water Quality Fund is available at

www.water.vic.gov.au/saving/towns/small-town-water-quality-fund

BUDGET BOOST FOR LOCAL CFA STATIONS

Fri, 18 May 2012 01:04:00 GMT

Patchewollock and Rosebery have been identified by the Country Fire Authority (CFA) as priority projectS as part of the Coalition Government’s $22 million 2012-13 Budget investment in upgrading or building new CFA stations across Victoria.

“This important funding will ensure local CFA volunteers have the best facilities to help them do their great work in protecting local communities." Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, stated.

“A further $12.3 million has been allocated to fleet infrastructure upgrades across the state to help the CFA best deliver on a range of services it provides such as road rescue, hazardous materials response and structural collapse.

“The funding will mean the CFA will be better resourced to enable a more effective and efficient firefighting service, whilst providing enhanced safety for crews.”

COALITION BUDGET SECURES FUTURE FOR RESIDENTS IN MILDURA

Fri, 18 May 2012 01:14:00 GMT

Residents living in Mildura will benefit from the Victorian Coalition Government’s 2012-13 Budget, with a focus on health care, transport improvements and school upgrades to secure Victoria’s future and drive economic activity, productivity and create jobs, Member for Mildura Peter Crisp said today.

“The current budget has some hard edges, however the Coalition knows how to manage money, and the 2012/2013 budget will position us well for the future.

"I am delighted that funding has been made available for the Ouyen and Robinvale P12 Colleges to continue with their upgrades. This is in addition to the $24.2M that has already been allocated for our riverfront, airport and hospital projects,” Mr Crisp said.

Today, the Treasurer Kim Wells announced the Coalition Government’s 2012-13 Budget which sets out a clear plan to meet Victoria’s challenges and position the state to take full advantage of current and future economic opportunities.

“This Budget focuses on securing the future and rebuilding the state’s finances,” Mr Wells said.

“It is about investing in a record state infrastructure spend, enhancing front line services and taking new measures to protect the most vulnerable Victorians.”

Residents in Mildura will benefit from significant Budget projects including:

· $5 million for construction of new primary school facilities at Ouyen P-12 College; and

· $60,000 for minor capital works at Robinvale P-12 College.

And statewide investment of:

· $10.58 million to accelerate innovation to boost productivity and profitability in Victoria’s grains industry;

· $14.3 million to boost the productivity and profitability of the Victorian dairy industry;

· $8.94 million to boost productivity and profitability in Victoria’s red meat (lamb and beef) industry;

· $8.11 million to secure a long-term future for Victorian horticulture; and

· $19.5 million for a biosecurity program.

Mr Wells said the 2012-13 Budget is shaped by the challenges of the present and in the short-term, Victoria faces global and national economic factors which have resulted in a softer economy and significant reductions in government revenue.

“This Budget takes a responsible and necessary approach to these forces which are placing real pressure on Victorian employment, small business and industry,” Mr Wells said.

“We cannot ignore those realities, nor can we afford to simply accept them.

“As a state and as a community, we will be defined not by the challenges we face, but by the collective actions we take to address them,” Mr Wells said.

CRISP BACKS FAST CAMPAIGN

Fri, 18 May 2012 04:40:00 GMT

How many people are aware of what the FAST Campaign is?

Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, is well aware and is encouraging other members of the community to get on board as well.

The FAST Campaign has been launched by the National Stroke Foundation and is aimed at developing awareness amongst all community members of the key signs of stroke.

“Every 10 minutes someone, somewhere in Australia suffers a stroke,” Mr Crisp said.

“It is the nation’s second biggest killer and leaves thousands of survivors with a permanent disability.

“However, if you are able to recognise the signs of a stroke you can have a significant impact on these statistics,” he said.

The FAST test is the easy way to recognise and remember the key signs of stroke and to act quickly.

Face – check their face. Has their mouth dropped?

Arms – can they lift both arms?

Speech – is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

Time – is critical. If you see any of the above signs call 000 immediately.

“If you remember and implement this very simple test you will have an enormous impact on the quality of life of someone who has suffered a stroke.

“Remember, a quick response can make all the difference,” Mr Crisp said.

EMERGENCY SERVICE GRANTS NOW AVAILABLE

Fri, 18 May 2012 01:16:00 GMT

Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, said today that almost $12 million would be made available under the 2012/2013 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

Mr Crisp said, “These grants provide our local volunteer emergency service groups the opportunity to apply for equipment, facility upgrades, vehicles and appliances.

“It is important our volunteer groups such as SES and CFA are supported through grants like VESEP so that they can continue to do what they do best – protecting lives and property

throughout northern Victoria.

“Our emergency services in the Mildura electorate have had to deal with a number of significant emergencies in recent years including storms and flooding.

“In each of these emergencies our volunteers have played a crucial role in protecting communities and people.”

Under the program emergency services volunteer groups can access grants of up to $100,000 for operational equipment, vehicles and appliances and minor facility improvements.

VESEP will contribute $2 for every $1 of funding up to $100,000. Applicants must meet a range of criteria and will be assessed by a panel comprising representatives from government

and respective emergency services organisations.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services Peter Ryan said, “Our volunteers are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency services so we want to ensure they have the best

equipment available to help them carry out their vital work.

“The Coalition Government’s VESEP initiative will ensure our emergency services are better equipped to respond safely and effectively to emergencies, whether it be floods, heat waves,

storms or bushfires.”

For more information to go www.justice.vic.gov.au or email vesep@justice.vic.gov.au.

VOLUNTEERS DESERVE THANKS

Fri, 18 May 2012 01:17:00 GMT

Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, is encouraging the electorate to celebrate volunteers as a vital part of our community during National Volunteer Week.

The Nationals MP said the celebrations, from May 14 to 20, were a fantastic way to recognise the work of the hundreds of everyday people throughout the electorate who make extraordinary contributions through volunteering.

“National Volunteer Week is our chance to publicly express our thanks to our many volunteers and to recognise the significant role they play in our communities,” Mr Crisp said.

“The phenomenal work done by volunteers during, and after, our recent flood events demonstrates the willingness of Victorians to help out in times of emergency.

“However, the work of volunteers goes much further than just in times of need.

“They are the backbone of our rural communities and without their work many of our sporting clubs, organisations and services would not exist.

“Research shows that more than 6 million Australians volunteer to some degree each year and we should be proud that the highest voluntary participation rates are found in country areas,” he said.

“These are the people we should celebrate during National Volunteer Week.

“Volunteers give their time and energy freely and willingly for no other reason than through a desire to help others and to do something worthwhile.

This year’s theme is: Volunteers – Every One Counts.

Top find out more about National Volunteers Week and to share your celebration, download resources and o recognise your volunteers visit www.nationalvolunteerweek.com.au.

“This is a great week for those who have considered volunteering to put their hands up, because by joining a volunteer group people can make a significant contribution to their communities,” Mr Crisp said.

“Volunteering can also provide opportunities to improve professional skills and experience as well as provide training in preparation to help in the event of an emergency. CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), CFA and SES teams are wonderful examples of this.”

HONOURING THE ANZAC LEGEND

Fri, 18 May 2012 01:19:00 GMT

ANZAC Day, April 25, is one of our most important national occasions, and a time to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of men and women who have served this country during times of war, the Nationals Member for Mildura, Peter Crisp, said today.

It is a day of national remembrance.

This year, ANZAC Day marks the 97^th anniversary of the Gallipoli Landings, the first major military action fought by the ANZACS, the Australian and New Zealand forces, during World War I. However it is much more than simply commemorating that important anniversary

It is a day when we remember all those who have fought and died in wars, from the Boer War, through World Wars I and II, Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam, though to today’s conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

As we reflect on the many different meanings of war, we remember the mateship of those who served, and those who died, in war, armed conflicts and peace-keeping operations.

“They endured what they endured so that we may enjoy what we enjoy - living in the best country in the world.”

“I encourage everyone in the Mildura Electorate, young and old alike, to make the time to participate in a local ANZAC Day commemoration and to remember those who gave our lives for our country.”

Mr Crisp will be celebrating ANZAC Day attending the Dawn Service, followed by attending a number of RSL functions being held throughout the district.

For more information on ANZAC Day commemorations contact your local RSL branch.