Shire of Dandaragan inaugural economic development grant winners include Geraldton’s Infinity Skate

Almost $30,000 was handed out to five economy-boosting businesses hosting events in the Shire of Dandaragan as part of its inaugural economic development grant scheme. Businesses planning projects with economic benefits in the shire are encouraged to apply for the next round of the program after the first round of recipients were announced. Geraldton-based Infinity Skate WA received $4658 to host the regional Revolve Skate Series in Jurien Bay in 2024. There will be additional skill development opportunities for local youth created in partnership with the shire. A grant of $6600 was given to Sports Performance and Management for the 2023 Wildflower Festival of Running and Turquoise Coast Run in the Pinnacles and along the Turquoise Way Path, to be held on November 12. Based on a farm near Dandaragan, Scene Brewing was awarded $7500 to help build a large coolroom for storing the company’s growing range of preservative-free beers. This business enhancement will allow the brewery to increase on-farm production and supply locally produced products to more outlets within the shire and across the State. Perth Game Fishing Club was awarded $5000 to support the West Australian Open 2024 game fishing competition in Jurien Bay. Dandaragan Heritage and Cultural Centre received $5000 to develop architectural and engineering drawings required for the development of a concept plan for a new building, which will support local jobs and attract tourists to the town. The events will benefit the shire by creating local jobs, attracting more overnight visitors, building the capacity and capability of local businesses, and attracting investment. CEO Brent Bailey said the grant program supported projects which align with council’s economic development strategic priorities and could demonstrate positive economic outcomes in small business, horticulture, tourism and renewable energy within the shire. “We see this grant as a stepping stone for local businesses, to support them to take on projects that will increase their business capacity and capability,” he said. Applications for the second round of grants will open in March 2024 and be awarded at the start of the new financial year. For more information, email edm@dandaragan.wa.gov.au