Media release – Bridget Archer MP, Federal Member for Bass, 10 August 2022
King must provide certainty to Exeter community
Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer has called on Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King MP to visit northern Tasmania and reassure the Exeter community that a key Coalition-funded project will go ahead.
“With Minister King visiting southern Tasmania today, I would hope she will travel to northern Tasmania to reassure the Exeter community that the Exeter Show and Recreation Centre will proceed under a Labor Federal Government,” Mrs Archer said.
“After working closely with the Exeter Show Society for several years, I advocated for the much-needed development, securing $1.5 million in funding through the Community Development Grants in March this year.
“The project has demonstrated its merit and value and has received co-investment from the Tasmanian Government for $735,000, ensuring facilities are brought up to date for wider community use, particularly catering for the rise in female participation in sport.
“The Society and the Exeter community have been left in limbo with the Federal Labor Government inexplicably placing Community Development Grant projects under review.
“The review is nothing more than placing partisan politics ahead of local communities, putting community organisations like the Exeter Show Society at risk of cost escalations due to unnecessary delays.
“I wrote to Minister King last month seeking answers on behalf of the Exeter community but am yet to receive a response. State Labor Members in Bass are also aware of the risk posed to the future of the community hub but have remained silent.
“Minister King must answer whether she is supporting northern Tasmania or walking away from valuable community projects.”
