Wangaratta’s buffer from crisis

New strategy to keep our economy ticking

Written by STEVEN BURKE. - Source: Wangaratta Chronicle

THE Federal Government is pumping billions of dollars into the economy to avoid a recession, and now Wangaratta is coming up with its own response to the world economic crisis.

The board of Wangaratta Unlimited has devised a draft strategy to try to minimise the effects of an economic downturn on the local economy.

And while full details of the strategy are still under wraps, Wangaratta Unlimited’s Graham Nickless said the board was pulling out all stops to help keep the local economy ticking over.

He said current projects, like Goulburn Ovens TAFE’s Technical Education Centre, the development of the Ovens Riverside Precinct and the impending arrival of Bunnings hold the rural city in good stead, but it was important to capitalise on major projects.

"We are trying to build some sort of buffer for the local economy," he said.

"In no way do we think we are insulated from what is going on in the world.

"The effects will cascade down.

"But we are trying to be on the front foot."

One of the ideas touted in the strategy will be a mentoring program, involving board members of Wangaratta Unlimited.

"It’s a time for leadership," Mr Nickless said.

"They are looking at roles they may be able to play with smaller businesses."

He said the strategy would focus on opportunities.

"Interest rates are the lowest they’ve been for decades," he said.

"Now is not the time to be timid."