Cr Charlie Bisset, Murrindindi Mayor

“Eildon has a local labour force of 280 people and this project is forecast to create 20 more jobs, which means an increase of seven per cent,” Murrindindi Mayor Cr Charlie Bisset said at Friday’s announcement at Eildon.

Cr Bisset said this $½-million investment will enable the houseboat industry to further capitalise on local, national and global opportunities in this niche manufacturing field.

“Every day, we see local houseboat manufacturing businesses innovating and achieving great things, but the value of this industry has a much wider impact as well,” Cr Bisset said.

“One of the benefits is the local employment the industry brings to the town.

“The other clear benefit is for tourism. The average houseboat accommodates eight people, which means that the floating population of Lake Eildon at peak times can be as many as 5000 people.

“The tourism value to Eildon and the Shire is really significant, particularly as we look to the future and make plans for our economic and social sustainability and progress.

“This generous grant from the Victorian Government of $500,000 in addition to the funding from Goulburn Murray Water of $175,000 will have a far reaching impact. “And it wouldn’t have come to fruition if it wasn’t for Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry Association’s commitment and vision for their industry – they have demonstrated this by putting $25,000 into the project themselves.

“And of course, Council was thrilled to support the project with $50,000 via our Business and Tourism Innovation Grants Program.

“So to the Victorian Government, we would like to say thank you. Thank you for believing in this industry and this town as much as we do and for this important investment in its future,” Cr Bisset said.