Tourism Devt Fund grant - Wagin Historical Village

15/9/98

The Wagin Historical Village will receive a grant from the Western Australian Tourism Commission's Tourism Development Fund towards tourism infrastructure development.

Announcing the grant, Tourism Minister Norman Moore said the Wagin Historical Village would receive $2,500 to help provide equipment and audiotapes to inform tourists of the history of the Wagin district.

"The Tourism Development Fund grant will contribute towards providing audio recordings detailing the history of Wagin's pioneer buildings," Mr Moore said.

"Coupled with the range of local attractions such as the Giant Ram, Wagin Woolarama and Puntapin Rock, the project provides an important service and an asset to tourism in WA.

"This project demonstrates the Wagin Historical Society's commitment to providing information and facilities which offer tourists a quality visitor experience and encourages them to extend their stay.

"The project will be an important service and a significant asset to tourism in WA."

This year, almost $1 million in tourism development grants is being provided by the WA Tourism Commission to 25 organisations throughout the State.

Mr Moore said Tourism Development Fund allocations totalling $986,722 would be used by local authorities and regional groups to fund tourism infrastructure projects all over WA.

"I am delighted to see this money going mainly to regional infrastructure," he said.

"In keeping with the WA Tourism Commission's focus on delivery of the Brand WA promise, it will have a major impact on the quality of tourism facilities throughout WA.

"The WA Tourism Commission is matching local funding dollar-for-dollar to increase tourism facilities and infrastructure throughout the State, as part of the Government's partnership strategy with the tourism industry."

The grants are the commission's second annual allocations, with a further $4 million available during the next two years to develop more tourism infrastructure throughout the State.

Groups with a specific tourism infrastructure project are encouraged to apply to the commission for a grant, on the basis that it needs to be equally matched with funds committed from sources other than the State Government.

Media contacts:

Hartley Joynt-Media Secretary; Office of the Minister for Tourism - Tel 9321 144

Roger Buddrige - Corporate Communications Manager; WA Tourism Commission - Tel 9220 1716