State Cabinet could face a chilly reception when it visits the region next month after Regional Roads Minister Geoff Brock revealed there would no funds committed to the duplication of the Dukes Highway between Tailem Bend and the Victorian border.
The Tatiara District Council has sought such an upgrade but today’s monthly meeting agenda contains a letter from Geoff Brock stating the four-lane highway cannot be built at this time.
Meanwhile, Premier Peter Malinauskas and his ministers will visit Naracoorte, Bordertown and surrounds for the Government’s seventh County Cabinet since 2022.
The Cabinet – along with department executives – will head to the South East to hear directly from community members, organisations, businesses and elected representatives on October 26 and 27.
Other towns ministers will visit include Robe, Kingston, Millicent and Penola.
Since taking office 18 months ago, Mr Malinaukas said the State Government had committed $9.75m to the Keith Hospital and $8m to the Naracoorte Hospital.
“I have long thought the South East is already an important economic contributor to the State, but it also has enormous potential to grow even bigger and better,” Premier Malinauskas said.
“The people who know it best are those who live and work in the community, and we want to hear directly from them how we can best support that growth.
“I want to acknowledge the work of local MP Nick McBride and his advocacy in bringing State Cabinet to his community.”
The visit of the State Cabinet to the MacKillop electorate is seen as a part of the public courting by the Labor Party of the Liberal-turned-Independent.
“As the Independent Member for MacKillop, I am pleased to be working alongside the State Government to host Country Cabinet,” Mr McBride said.
“I commend the State Government for recognising the importance of the region to the State’s economy, and I look forward to showcasing some of the local businesses, organisations and community groups who contribute to the success of the region.
“I also look forward to highlighting the array of opportunities that exist to develop the region even further.
“I encourage as many people as possible to take part in the community forum in Naracoorte.
“This is an opportunity to be heard – whether it be about road maintenance, education, health and hospitals, infrastructure, the environment – or whatever issue you would like to raise. public forum at Naracoorte High School, on the afternoon of October 26.”
