$6m expansion for Summerland House Farm

Summerland House Farm is set to benefit from a $6 million transformation after receiving a grant from the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

“This will have major flow-on benefits across the community including more jobs for people with a disability through increased agri-tourism, ensuring our region will continue to thrive and prosper into the future,” said Kevin Hogan, Federal Member for Page.

“This is a fantastic outcome for our community, with the project receiving more than $4.5 million from the Federal Government.

“The project will expand existing facilities at Summerland House Farm, better serving the region’s macadamia industry through upgraded dehusking and sorting facilities and developing a nationally significant tourism experience. This will include integrating existing horticulture activities into the tourism experience, showcasing the regions produce through an edible arboretum, a farm yard animal barn, farm themed play and educational attractions and equipment. There will also be upgrades to parking, the road network and amenities.

“The Government has a plan for regional Australia and we are focused on getting it done. It’s a plan to create more jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities, like ours.”

Brett Lacey, Executive Director Businesses & Children’s Services of House with No Steps (now Aruma) said:

“This is a transformational project for the site and indeed the region. The team is incredibly excited by the development ahead. We have the privilege of employing 90 employees with a disability at the farm, and with this funding we’re thrilled to be able to create even more purposeful employment opportunities.”

The Federal Government is contributing $4.5 million to the project with House with No Steps (now Aruma), David Lindsay, a local donor, and the Macadamia Processing Company contributing the balance.