❓ The Minister for Regional Development updates the house on the release of over 15,200 hectares of land in the Ord River Irrigation Area for agricultural expansion, highlighting its significance for community development, Indigenous partnerships, and economic prosperity.
AnsweredQoN 762Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
Ord–East Kimberley Expansion Project — LAND RELEASE
I would like to acknowledge Dudley Maslen who is sitting in the Speaker’s galley. He is a long-serving community leader and a long-serving local government leader. Today the minister announced the release of over 15 200 hectares of land in the Ord including more than 7 300 hectares of new irrigated agricultural land. Will the minister update the house on the significance of this milestone in the Ord–East Kimberley expansion project? Mr B.J. GRYLLS
I would like to acknowledge Dudley Maslen who is sitting in the Speaker’s galley. He is a long-serving community leader and a long-serving local government leader. Today the minister announced the release of over 15 200 hectares of land in the Ord including more than 7 300 hectares of new irrigated agricultural land. Will the minister update the house on the significance of this milestone in the Ord–East Kimberley expansion project? Mr B.J. GRYLLS
AnswerView source ↗
I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Today the minister announced the release of over 15 200 hectares of land in the Ord including more than 7 300 hectares of new irrigated agricultural land. Will the minister update the house on the significance of this milestone in the Ord–East Kimberley expansion project? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
[See paper 4203.]
Today the minister announced the release of over 15 200 hectares of land in the Ord including more than 7 300 hectares of new irrigated agricultural land. Will the minister update the house on the significance of this milestone in the Ord–East Kimberley expansion project? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
I am very happy to answer the question of the member for North West. I thank the member for his excellent help in ensuring that we deliver positive Indigenous outcomes in the East Kimberley project. Today the government is very proud to release 15 203 hectares of new, irrigable land on the Weaber Plain, which we call the Goomig farm area; the Knox plain, which is land near the Northern Territory border; and the Ord west bank, which is some infill land closer to the existing town site. This land will more than double the size of the existing irrigation area in the Ord Valley. For those who are interested, the white on this map represents the original land that is already under agriculture. The red represents the Goomig farm area, where we have put the irrigation channels and infrastructure in place. Knox plain is the new land near the border, and Ord west bank is shown in blue. We can see that it is a substantial expansion of the land. I have some subdivision maps and land maps that I will table so members can have a look. Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Mr E.S. Ripper interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Yes, the Sorby Hills mine is located here. I think that is also going to progress in the future, which is very positive. I will table that document at the end of my answer. This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
This agricultural expansion has been long awaited, but the project is much more than just farming new agricultural land. It is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the community of Kununurra into a model whereby there is prosperity for all. More importantly, this project is the cornerstone of the state’s endeavour to fully engage and partner with traditional owners. Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Today LandCorp released a request for proposal process for up to 16 lots in the Goomig farm area that have been identified as suitable for irrigated agriculture and have won the environmental approval of the commonwealth approval agencies. Under the request for proposal process, proponents will be required to submit offers for a three-year development lease, converting upon satisfactory compliance with lease conditions to either freehold or lease survey strata lot. The Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation has been involved in the project development and land tenure considerations. The MG Corporation will take up its five per cent of land, which is 400 hectares, that is its entitlement under the Ord final agreement, and has indicated it will also exercise its option to purchase a further 7.5 per cent, which is 600 hectares, at market value. The MG Corporation will farm 1 000 hectares of this new agricultural land in the East Kimberley. Criteria is being developed by LandCorp and the Department of Regional Development and Lands, with input from the sales agents, Landmark Harcourts, and the community reference group on the ground in Kununurra. As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
As I have said, a further 6 096 hectares of Knox plain and 1 767 hectares of the Ord west bank will also be released through a slightly different process, an expression of interest process. This is required as successful proponents of these two parcels of land will need to complete outstanding environmental approvals, plan the infrastructure build on these parcels of land and comply with all the planning and environmental requirements so that development can occur on that land. The release of that land at the same time allows us to release over 15 000 hectares, which makes this a world class–scale agricultural project. Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
Over the past 18 months there has been increasing local, interstate and overseas interest in the impending land release. The timing of this release allows for the development of the land to commence in 2012 in parallel with the completion of the infrastructure works funded by the state to service that land. Submission for all three land releases—the Goomig, the Knox plain and the Ord west bank—will close at the end of February 2012. The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
The Liberal–National government is very proud to be progressing the release of this land consistent with the stated time line for the project. It is also consistent with our plan to grow the Kimberley and to grow the development of the Kimberley region. I welcome the bipartisan support for the project as we deliver on the Ord final agreement, which settled native title in the East Kimberley, as negotiated by the Leader of the Opposition. We thank the Leader of the Opposition for that work. We also recognise the $195 million of commonwealth community infrastructure spending, led by Gary Gray, that underpins the development of Kununurra and East Kimberley community infrastructure. This is a landmark day for the East Kimberley. It shows that the government can deliver an agricultural project closely linked with Indigenous participation and opportunity. I think we are now heading on a path that will see a wonderful agricultural precinct growing and developing in the East Kimberley. [See paper 4203.]
[See paper 4203.]
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