Programs to aid dairy workers

IT is hoped funding for nine new programs will help 120 workers due to lose their jobs at Murray Goulburn’s milk plant at Edith Creek.

The programs are funded with $656,810 from the first tranche of the State Government’s $1.5 million stimulus package aimed at growing local business and tourism at Circular Head.

Murray Goulburn announced in May it would close its factory near Smithton because of a lack of milk supply.

Braddon MP Joan Rylah, who is also chairwoman of the Circular Head Regional Economic Development Working Group, is optimistic someone will take over the facility and the workforce.

The nine projects include a Tourism Industry Development Program ($100,000); Competitive SME Program ($100,000); Digital Ready Program ($30,000); Contractors Program ($31,810); and the New Markets Access Program ($200,000).

The other $843,190, will be allocated to other projects next month on the recommendation of the working group.