Two Mid-West businesses are working together to establish a rock oyster industry at the Abrolhos Islands thanks to funding through the WA Government’s Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants program.
The State Government has allocated $23.9 million over four years to the RED Grants program, administered by the nine Regional Development Commissions, providing $777,835 to the Mid-West region in the first round.
Geraldton-based, Abrolhos Island Oysters Pty Ltd and Australian Pearling Company Pty Ltd will receive $250,000 to assist with water and nutrient monitoring at the Abrolhos Islands site in order to obtain accreditation and classification as a harvest area for human consumption.
Rock oyster aquaculture is new in Western Australia, and this project provides the opportunity to explore potential growth and share learnings with other growers to help build the industry.
Dongara-based distillery Illegal Tender Rum Co will receive a grant of $137,000 to expand operations and help make Dongara a food and beverage tourism destination.
The company aims to more than double its production, increase venue capacity and provide local employment opportunities. The distillery will also explore future opportunities to develop ‘ready to drink’ products for China.
Eight Mid-West projects will receive RED Grants focusing on new industry development and tourism expansion.
Source: WA Government