The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland has met with community leaders and local industry representatives in Heathcote to discuss the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities for growth.
The meeting brought together stakeholders from key sectors including tourism, agriculture, emergency services and the wine industry, with a strong focus on delivering practical outcomes for the community.
“Heathcote is a region with enormous potential, but there are real barriers holding it back,” Ms Cleeland said.
“From transport and water infrastructure to business red tape and energy reliability, these are issues that need urgent attention.
Among the key issues raised were:
- The urgent need for improved public transport options, including better patient transport services for regional health access
- Investment in water infrastructure to unlock new opportunities for productive farming land
- Reducing the growing burden of compliance on small businesses, particularly around licences, permits, WorkCover, insurance and levies
- Addressing energy reliability and affordability at a regional level, including the impact of large-scale renewable projects such as the proposed Cooba Solar Facility and its potential effect on local agriculture and horticulture
“These are the issues that matter to regional communities,” Ms Cleeland said.
“They are not looking for more announcements or layered bureaucracy. Our communities want practical solutions that actually improve their day-to-day lives.”
Ms Cleeland said she will continue working with local residents and industry leaders to advocate for stronger infrastructure and economic support across Heathcote and the wider region.