Two major projects have secured a combined $11.3 million to drive local economy growth and employment.
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The bulk of the money, $10 million, is allocated to the Murrumbidgee region, to support a private project to develop a large‑scale hemp processing facility at Gundaline Station.
Just over $1.3 million has been allocated to Berrigan Shire Council to fund the Tocumwal Town Centre Infrastructure Project.
Both grants are funded under the round two of the Sustainable Communities Program, which is a funding program designed to counteract the impacts of water buybacks and other water policies through job creation, workforce participation and long‑term resilience.
The hemp processing facility is being led by Ausuntech Pty Ltd - believed to be a Chinese-owned company with a base in Victoria - and will be developed to produce linen‑quality fibre using new plant, power upgrades and specialised equipment.
The Southern Riverina News attempted to reach out to Ausuntech Pty Ltd for further details, but did not get a response.
Information provided in the grant announcement said the project promises to “create local jobs, support regional growers entering value‑added markets, and deliver environmental benefits through low‑water, low‑emissions production”.
Murrumbidgee Mayor Ruth McRae welcomed investment in the region, but expressed disappointment that proposals put forward by the council were not funded.
Murrumbidgee Mayor Ruth McRae OAM.
While welcoming any project that benefits the region, Cr McRae did question the long-term local benefit of the hemp facility.
“It’s a foreign‑owned company, shipping its product offshore, and we haven’t a clue who those employers are,” she said.
“I have doubts on how this will contribute to our small communities.
“While it may create opportunities, there are lots of unknowns.
“Council welcomes the announcement and any proposal that broadens our economic base, but we need to ensure those benefits flow through to our local businesses and communities.”
Berrigan Shire’s allocation will support phase one of what council describes as the ‘Future Tocumwal’ project.
The plan, adopted by council last October, focuses on creating a more connected, attractive and functional precinct, with improvements to pedestrian access, traffic flow, public spaces, landscaping and overall amenity.
Stage one will deliver upgraded parking, improved drainage, new footpaths and enhanced streetscaping.
The works aim to reduce safety risks, improve access for residents and visitors, and stimulate economic activity in the busy river town.
Berrigan Shire Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean said the funding marked a major milestone for the community.
“This is a fantastic outcome for Berrigan Shire.
“Future Tocumwal is a community‑driven vision, and this funding allows us to begin delivering the high‑quality public spaces and infrastructure our residents and visitors expect.
“We’ve identified the need to uplift the town centre and modernise our streets.
Berrigan Shire Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean.
“This isn’t just cosmetic, it’s about practicality, improving pedestrian access, and creating spaces that attract visitors and events.”
“The project includes accessible parking for caravans and long vehicles, and it positions Tocumwal for an electric‑vehicle future.
“These are the kinds of upgrades that support tourism and make the town easier to navigate for everyone.”
Cr Cornwell McKean said the transformation would strengthen Tocumwal’s long‑term economic position.
“By improving the landscape and the way people move through the town, we’re supporting local businesses and creating a more welcoming environment.
“It’s about building a centre that reflects who we are now and where we want to be.”
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