The federal Nationals are continuing to deliver a record funding investment in infrastructure across the Lyne electorate.

The Minister accompanied me on an inspection of The Bucketts Way and Lorne Road, between Kew and Comboyne, and took part in an infrastructure forum at Taree.

In the past five years we have significantly increased funding for infrastructure through a range of programs and I’m keen to see how these funds are flowing through, but also what more we can do to support projects that help boost the region’s economy.

In Gloucester, we met with representatives from the beef, dairy, and poultry industries, as well as the Advance Gloucester group for a discussion on major improvements to The Bucketts Way. 

Since 2013, our government has invested more than $16 million towards the ongoing upgrade of The Bucketts Way. 

In August, I announced a further $5 million that will see 12.65 kilometres of The Bucketts Way realigned and widened, with passing lanes at three locations.

Lorne Road between Comboyne and Kew, a 14 km tourist, timber and agricultural freight route yet to be sealed, is the last missing link in the road circuit that connects the various towns and villages throughout the Hastings Valley. 

An upgrade of Lorne Road, providing better access to the Pacific Motorway, will deliver major economic benefits to the region.

We also met with Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast and a number of key industry representatives to discuss the proposed Northern Gateway Transport Hub and the Taree Advanced Manufacturing Skills Centre, along with the next pieces of the infrastructure puzzle required for this region to continue to thrive and drive the local economy.

Higher Education

I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage local students to research and apply for more than 7000 higher education courses using a new website launched today. 

The Course Seeker website would allow prospective undergraduate students to compare and apply for courses right for them.

This website provides students with transparent, independent and unbiased information.

It will give students the information they need to choose the course and institution that best suits their needs and goals, including student satisfaction rates and employment outcomes. 

Students finishing their year 12 exams in rural and regional communities should visit the website at courseseeker.edu.au, especially if they can’t attend university open days or visit the campus in person.