OUR SAY: Corowa saleyards project a way we can look to the future

But it has to be if we are to re-build after what is widely accepted as the virus-induced recession our economy appears to be entering.

The logistics of tackling the virus, specifically taking the most prudent measures to prevent its spread, are enormous.

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And as we have already witnessed countless times, it's a situation that is rapidly changing by the day and often by the hour.

Planning for those other aspects of out life beyond those has to continue, especially in terms of ensuring economic opportunities that in turn lay the basis for a more socially supporting society.

If possibilities are not explored, if projects are not embarked upon, new jobs will not be created and in turn, the day-to-day will continue to be a more desperate exercise for our increasing numbers joining those without a sustaining weekly wage.

It is why the work being done by Federation Council on the redevelopment of the Corowa saleyards has taken on even more significance.

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The saleyards are already considered one of the key drivers of economic activity in the shire, with a significant flow-on of financial benefits to the wider business community.

The council remains firmly committed to the $13 million project, which would be a considerable win for the region for many years to come.

But as with all such substantial projects in a regional area, the cost simply cannot be met without help from elsewhere.

The council has already allocated almost $800,000 to the saleyards rejuvenation in its 2020-21 capital works budget, though far more than that is required.

Specifically, it is hoping for a NSW government contribution of almost $8 million, something that will be the subject of a business case proposal.

This is just the kind of innovative thinking that we as a community but crucially, higher levels of government need to offer robust, genuine support.