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HUMEREGIONbusiness advantages
lifestyle choices
INVESTING AND LIVING IN VICTORIA’S HUME REGION
I N S E R T T I T L E H E R E . . .
Shep
part
on to
Bris
bane -
1,640 km
Wodonga to Sydney - 560 km
Wod
onga
to B
risba
ne -
1,48
0 km
Wodonga to Adelaide - 940 km
Shepparton to Adelaide - 750 km
I N S E R T T I T L E H E R E . . .
Shep
part
on to
Bris
bane -
1,640 km
Wodonga to Sydney - 560 km
Wod
onga
to B
risba
ne -
1,48
0 km
Wodonga to Adelaide - 940 km
Shepparton to Adelaide - 750 km
INSERT TITLE HERE...
Shep
part
on to
Bris
bane -
1,640 km
Wodonga to Sydney - 560 km
Wod
onga
to B
risba
ne -
1,48
0 km
Wodonga to Adelaide - 940 km
Shepparton to Adelaide - 750 km
I N S E R T T I T L E H E R E . . .
Shep
part
on to
Bris
bane -
1,640 km
Wodonga to Sydney - 560 km
Wod
onga
to B
risba
ne -
1,48
0 km
Wodonga to Adelaide - 940 km
Shepparton to Adelaide - 750 km
HUME REGION IS ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MAJOR FOOD PRODUCING AREAS AND HAS DIRECT ACCESS TO MARKETS
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Hume Region is a great place to invest and do business while enjoying the wealth of lifestyle options on offer.
Strategically located, the area is made up of three interconnected and vibrant regional cities, as well as a network of diverse regional centres and towns.
The regional cities of Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga service their own thriving sub regional areas, while supporting an abundance of business opportunities across the region.
Hume Region is fortunate to have some of Australia’s most productive agricultural land and a strong manufacturing sector that is experiencing continued growth. Our ready access to key national transport corridors is also a major competitive advantage.
In addition, Hume Region’s natural assets, leisure and lifestyle options make it one of Victoria’s most liveable regions.
Today, the region’s population is approximately 280,000 and is expected to experience continued growth.
The region’s investment and lifestyle opportunities are built on unique access to a skilled workforce; fertile land and natural resources; historic and cultural amenities; reliable water resources; a pristine environment; and key road and rail transport routes between Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.
We welcome you to Hume Region and invite you to contact Regional Development Victoria – Hume or any of the 12 local councils in the region. If you require further information about business and lifestyle opportunities, please refer to back cover for contact details.
Hume Regional Development Australia Committee
HUME REGION: UNIQUE BUSINESS ADVANTAGES AND AN INVESTMENT READY ATTITUDE
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HUME REGION – BUSINESS ADVANTAGES, LIFESTYLE CHOICES
Hume Region’s key featuresHume Region, with its three vibrant regional cities – Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga – its network of regional centres and towns and its exceptional natural assets, is one of Victoria’s largest and most diverse regions. Strategically located with direct access to 68 percent of the Australian market, Hume Region offers business advantages and lifestyle choices.
The region makes a significant contribution to Australia’s agriculture, manufacturing and food processing industries, and major companies are choosing to locate and invest in Hume Region.
The Hume and Goulburn Valley transport corridors traverse the region, connecting people and goods to markets and capital city amenities in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.
Widely known for the beauty of its natural environment and its temperate climate, Hume Region is also becoming increasingly recognised for its world-class food and wine, cycling tracks, rich history, welcoming communities and diverse recreational activities.
We invite you to discover Hume Region.
Hume Region covers over 40,000 square kilometres, making up approximately 17 percent of Victoria’s total land area. Comprising 12 municipalities, the region has four distinct sub regions – Upper Hume, Central Hume, Goulburn Valley and Lower Hume – each of which contains unique offerings that attract businesses, families and tourists.
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Upper Hume features the regional city of Wodonga, a major service hub which is growing rapidly and has strong links to the New South Wales city of Albury, located directly across the Murray River. This sub region also includes smaller communities across north-eastern Victoria and a number of well-known tourist destinations. Wodonga has a strong manufacturing base that is supported by access to road and rail transport along the Hume transport corridor, as well as freight transport and logistics capability. Other key drivers of economic growth are retail, healthcare, public administration (including defence), agriculture and tourism. The Hume transport corridor is of national importance and provides a major competitive advantage to Hume Region as a whole, as well as being particularly important to the national and international businesses that have based themselves in Upper Hume.
Central Hume is predominantly serviced by the regional city of Wangaratta and the regional centre of Benalla. The sub region has the advantage of being located at the headwaters of many of Victoria’s key rivers, and benefits from increasing popularity with ‘tree-changers’ seeking a rural lifestyle with ready access to the amenities offered in local towns. In any season, the alpine areas and pristine river valleys provide recreation choices that are among the world’s best. Tourism is a major contributor to the local economy and manufacturing is the largest employer, followed by retail, health and community services. Ready access to water is an important economic asset for the sub region, supporting high value agriculture and tourism. The Melbourne-Sydney rail line and Hume Highway run through Central Hume, providing a unique level of access for freight, vehicle and passenger movement.
Goulburn Valley communities look to the regional city of Shepparton as a service hub, offering higher education, specialist health services and cultural facilities. Irrigated and dry land agriculture, grazing, manufacturing (including food processing), the equine industry and viticulture are all major employers in this sub region. Modernised irrigation systems, coupled with fertile agricultural land along the floodplains of the Murray, Goulburn and Ovens Rivers have enabled the Goulburn Valley to develop as a nationally significant dairy and horticulture area, generating an estimated $1.7 billion annually. The area’s rich natural resources have fostered the development of some of the most productive agricultural enterprises in Australia, and it is now recognised as being at the forefront of global food production. The sub region also has strong links to road and rail freight networks, providing access to domestic markets and supporting exports, largely to New Zealand and South East Asia.
Lower Hume includes parts of the Melbourne growth corridor and has several large towns that offer a mix of urban and rural development. In particular, Kilmore, Wallan and Seymour have been identified as towns with the potential to attract population growth. Other urban centres in the sub region provide services to the surrounding rural areas including Yea and Alexandra. Regular passenger rail services from Seymour provide easy access to Melbourne’s northern suburbs and CBD, as well as connections to other parts of Hume Region. Agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, manufacturing, retail and construction provide employment within the sub region. Major tourism destinations include national parks, alpine ranges and Lake Eildon. The close proximity to Melbourne is the key feature of the Lower Hume sub region.
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0.9%Over the past decade, the region’s economy grew at an annual average rate of 0.9 percent
The region has a diverse and productive economy with manufacturing and agriculture the two most significant regional economic sectors, contributing $2.5 billion of the region’s $9 billion Gross Value Added in 2013
$2.3bManufacturing exports alone were worth approximately $2.3 billion in 2012
Manufacturing and agriculture provide three- quarters of the exports from Hume Region
The population is expected to grow at a sustainable rate of over 1.6 percent per annum over the next two decades
Hume Region has a population of approximately 280,000 residents
$1.3b$1.2b
Manufacturing
AgricultureThe region’s agricultural exports make up almost 20 percent of Victoria’s exports in this sector
20%
.
From 2001 to 2011, the region contributed more than 17 percent to Victoria’s Gross Regional Product
2011
2001
17%
Sec
tor
con
trib
uti
on t
o G
ross
Va
lue
Ad
ded
(T
otal
GVA
Hum
e Re
gion
201
3: $
9 bi
llion
)
1.6%280k
$9bGVA
Agriculture, Forestry and FishingManufacturingHealth Care and Social AssistanceConstructionEducation and TrainingPublic Administration and SafetyRetail TradeTransport, Postal and WarehousingFinancial and Insurance ServicesProfessional, Scientific and Technical ServicesWholesale TradeAccommodation and Food ServicesAdministrative and Support ServicesElectricity, Gas, Water and Waste ServicesOther ServicesRental, Hiring and Real Estate ServicesMiningInformation Media and TelecommunicationsArts and Recreation Services
14.4%12.9%10.8%7.9%7.4%7.2%6.8%4.1%3.8%3.8%3.4%3.4%3.0%2.7%2.4%2.1%1.6%1.4%0.9%
HUME REGION FAST FACTS
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1.7 mhectares
Over 4 million hectares (40,000 square kilometres) including more than 1.7 million hectares of public land in the form of national parks, reserves and state forests
Strategically situated at the mid-point between Sydney,
Melbourne and Adelaide
Four distinct seasons4m day visitors + 2.5m overnight visitors
= annual tourism spend $1.3b
Direct access to 68% of Australian
markets
68%
REGIONAL CITIES
SheppartonWangarattaWodonga
HUME REGIONFAST FACTS
2013
2003
For the period 2003 to 2013, the number of jobs in the region grew by 13.5 percent
13.5% Hume Region has approximately 107,000 jobs and employment opportunities continue to grow
Median house prices range between $241,000 and $285,000 in regional cities and $187,000 and $310,000 in rural areas
Hume Region has two national transport corridors and direct access to four capital cities within 24 hours by road or rail
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COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES FOR BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT
DIRECT ACCESS TO MAJOR MARKETS AND RELIABLE WATER RESOURCES ARE AMONG OUR UNIQUE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES
The Hume Region has competitive advantages that make it the smart choice for businesses both large and small; with all the lifestyle benefits that a vibrant community offers.
A dynamic economyThe Hume Region has a diverse economy that has grown consistently over the past decade. Major sectors include agriculture and food processing, manufacturing, tourism and hospitality, freight transport and logistics, construction, health, education and community services.
Australia’s leading companies as your neighboursA network of large Australian and multi-national companies choose to serve their Australian and international clients from the Hume Region, utilising the region’s world-class infrastructure and residential workforce. This includes value added food processing, engineering, electronics, pet food manufacture, textiles, packaging and distribution.
Lower business costsThe relatively low cost of doing business continues to attract businesses to the Hume Region. Commercial properties are more readily available for purchase and significantly cheaper to rent than in many other areas. Less time is lost in commuting and there are opportunities to lower production and telecommunication costs. Raw materials and resources can be sourced locally and there is cost effective access to freight transport and logistics infrastructure.
Lifestyle and cultural offerings
An abundance of lifestyle and cultural offerings, such as museums, galleries, shopping centres and award-winning restaurants and wineries make the region an ideal place to live and visit. There are a number of festivals during the year, including the Bright Autumn Festival, Australian National Show ‘n’ Shine in Euroa, the Wangaratta Jazz and Blues Festival, Rutherglen Winery Walkabout and SheppARTon, as well as motorsports events at Winton Motor Raceway and the State Motorcycle Sports Complex at Broadford.
Leading sporting and recreational choicesWhether it is a leisurely ride along the network of trails, a guided nature walk, fishing, golfing or a more challenging activity like abseiling, horse riding, gliding, bushwalking, mountain biking, long distance cycling or paragliding – along with the many seasonal snow and water sports – Hume Region offers a multitude of choices.
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A skilled workforceThe region has approximately 170,000 people of working age. The level of workforce participation is above the rate for other parts of regional Victoria and employment opportunities continue to grow. The number of jobs in the region grew by more than 13 percent between 2003 and 2013. The region boasts a range of specialist training centres and a skilled, highly productive local workforce that provides stability and can meet your needs.
Moving ahead with transport and logisticsTransport infrastructure, such as major roads, rail transport and airports, support the area’s connectivity and provide access to key markets in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide. Two of the country’s most important transport routes, the Hume and Goulburn Valley transport corridors, run through the Hume Region and freight and logistics precincts offer capacity for efficient freight movement within and outside the region. The proposed east coast high-speed rail system, with planned stations in Wodonga and Shepparton, will provide further connectivity.
High quality land and an abundance of water resourcesAccess to high quality land and reliable water sources, for both urban and rural needs, plays a fundamental role supporting businesses and population growth throughout the Hume Region. Soils and land capability support a wide mix of agricultural products and settlement patterns. Major water resources include river systems of national and state significance, reliable water storages and state of the art irrigation systems.
Going digitalResidents and businesses in the region are being assisted to get online and become confident with using digital technologies. This will enable Hume Region to maximise the benefits of digital reform, with the roll out of the National Broadband Network providing a mix of fibre, fixed wireless and satellite services across the region.
Health care for all Communities within Hume Region have access to leading health care facilities. There are three large health campuses in Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga delivering a range of medical, surgical, emergency and allied health services. These are supported by a number of smaller health services, specialist clinics, tele-health facilities and general practices across Hume Region.
Education at every levelHigh quality and modern education facilities are available within the Hume Region. La Trobe University, the University of Melbourne and Charles Sturt University have campuses within the region. These, and the region’s many vocational training facilities, provided through GOTAFE, Wodonga TAFE and other regional training organisations provide significant opportunities for training in growth sectors.
Pristine natural environments and landscapesThe region’s renowned tourism offerings are largely based on the pristine natural environment. A world class network of cycling tracks and trails, alpine resorts and access to national and state parks all contribute to the reputation the Hume Region enjoys for liveability and the finer things in life.
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Hume Region’s competitive business advantages, and investment-ready attitude, make the region the perfect place to establish, expand or re-locate a business. Access to nationally significant transport routes, a skilled workforce, lower operating costs than most metropolitan areas, productive farmland and abundant natural resources have resulted in many international and national companies choosing to base their business in Hume Region.
BUILD YOUR BUSINESS
Agriculture and food processingAccess to reliable water supplies, an ideal climate and fertile land make agriculture and the associated food processing industry one of Hume Region’s largest economic contributors.
The region’s irrigation based industries, such as dairy, horticulture and viticulture, are of state and regional significance. Hume Region is home to specialist abattoirs which primarily process cattle and sheep meats. The region also contributes the majority of the total value of Victoria’s hops and stone fruit production.
The Goulburn Valley produces about 80 percent of Hume Region’s agricultural production and approximately 90 percent of the region’s food product manufacturing. The gross value of agricultural and horticultural production in the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District is around $2.2 billion and contributes about 25 percent of the total value of Victoria’s agricultural product.
A recent $2 billion investment in irrigation modernisation and on-farm irrigation efficiency improvements in the Goulburn Valley means Hume Region’s agriculture and food processing industries will continue to grow and further position the region as one of Australia’s premier food producing areas.
The growth in population and prosperity in Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia is expected to increase the demand for Australian produce, as is the growing demand for healthy and fresh food. It is anticipated that these consumer demands will see the region’s agriculture sector continue to flourish.
Hume Region’s strategic location, access to natural resources, and skilled workforce, puts it in a strong position to increase food and fibre production over coming years and strengthen the region’s role in exporting food into Asia.
LONG LANE CAPERS MANSFIELD
When Rowena and Mick Ellis moved from Melbourne to Mansfield in 2005, without any previous experience in farming, their passion for producing fresh, high quality food led to the establishment of Long Lane Capers. This niche business produces gourmet capers and caperberries that are sold throughout Victoria and served in leading restaurants in Melbourne and regional Victoria.
“Long Lane Capers complements our small beef production business and our location just outside Mansfield provides ready access to the gourmet food outlets that this region is well known for,” Rowena says.
“Establishing this business has also given me the opportunity to get involved in identifying further business opportunities for the region’s producers. The market demand for high quality regional produce is growing all the time. Moving from Melbourne was a big decision but it is the best thing we could have done.” says Rowena.
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ManufacturingHume Region’s manufacturing sector is thriving, and is the area’s second most significant economic sector, accounting for 13 percent of the region’s Gross Value Added.
Diverse and forward thinking, the sector has strong links to agriculture within the region. Other specialisations include electrical equipment, transport, farming equipment, munitions and steel fabrication.
The Goulburn Valley area currently earns over $1.6 billion per annum from primary production and is experiencing significant investment in new or upgraded food processing facilities. The manufacturing of food and beverages at facilities operated by some of the world’s most successful food companies represents over 90 percent of Hume Region’s agricultural based manufacturing production. An excellent climate and access to quality soils, modern irrigation networks, efficient transportation systems and a skilled workforce supports the sub region’s capacity to compete in national and global markets.
In the northern part of the region, Wodonga is an important manufacturing base with national and international companies specialising in the manufacture of technical equipment and
appliances, food production, and metal products. Wodonga has experienced strong growth in the last decade due to its proximity to the capital cities of Melbourne and Sydney and close links to the regional city of Albury; its access to an efficient transport and logistics network; and a workforce that is able to match the needs of the market.
Smaller manufacturers in other regional centres and locations throughout the region have also seen steady growth in recent years, including producers of textiles; meat and milk products; chemicals, fertilisers and pesticides; wood products; and professional and scientific products.
Many manufacturing businesses have chosen to operate in Hume Region given the supply of high quality industrial land; access to an experienced and skilled workforce; education institutions that work with local industries to develop specialist skills; the support of business networks; comprehensive supply chain networks; and world-class transport and logistics services, including warehousing and packaging.
Manufacturing remains in the top five employment sectors in Hume Region.
KIEWA VALLEY ENGINEERINGWODONGA
Since its beginning in the early 1970’s, Kiewa Valley Engineering has evolved into one of Australia’s most advanced steel fabrication companies offering a broad range of in-house capability and services to major ‘tier one’ contractors across Australia in the power, transport and infrastructure, mining and resources and commercial construction sectors.
The business operates from a purpose built facility on a prime industrial estate in Wodonga, strategically located on the Victoria NSW border and within close proximity to the Hume Freeway. The region’s significantly low cost leasing and abundance of industrial space were key considerations for location of the business. The current site has enabled development of three manufacturing workshops spanning well over 16,000 square metres.
Dave Robin, Business Development Manager from Kiewa Valley Engineering says that, with licenses for
two of the most highly regarded software packages in the industry, and a range of state of the art CNC machinery, the business leverages the Hume Region’s low electricity and operating costs to enable some of the highest levels of efficiency and productivity within the industry.
“Kiewa Valley Engineering is recognised for manufacturing excellence and for being a reliable supply chain partner, and we pride ourselves on quality workmanship and highly skilled employees. The business utilises the region’s cost effective labour rates and long term stable workforce which maintain employment opportunities in Wodonga and the rest of the region,” says Dave.
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Tourism and hospitalityTourism is one of Hume Region’s fastest growing economic and employment sectors. With over 2.5 million domestic overnight visitors, 4 million domestic day visitors and tourism expenditure exceeding $1.3 billion per annum, tourism contributes significantly to the region’s economy.
The Hume Region has a year round tourism offer that thrives on the appeal of seasonal variations and attracts international tourists, as well as visitors from other parts of Victoria and Australia.
Much of the tourism activity is centred on the alpine areas and surrounding valleys, cycling trails, lakes and river systems, and the region’s gourmet food and wine destinations.
Many of the region’s attractions are within close proximity to Melbourne and are perfect for a day trip or weekend away. Award-winning restaurants and cellar doors profile local produce and provide some of the most exciting gourmet produce in Australia.
The region boasts an abundance of farm gate trails and lively shopping precincts, offering everything from antiques and local handmade jewellery, to flowers and organic foods. The region also offers luxurious spa and well-being retreats for those who are looking to get away from it all.
SAM MIRANDAKING VALLEY WINEMAKER AND CYCLIST
Sam Miranda is an active community member, keen cyclist and third generation winemaker whose family started in the industry in 1939 after moving from Italy to Australia. Sam grew up in the wine region of Griffith, NSW before moving to the King Valley to take up a winemaking position in the family business, Miranda Wines, in 1996. Today, he owns a 120 hectare winery and cellar door in the Hume Region’s King Valley.
Sam has supported community cycling events in the region for many years. Since 2012, he has partnered with Northeast Health Wangaratta to host the annual ‘Kelly Country Classic’. This event allows both competitive racers and families to enjoy the region’s cycle trails and continues to raise thousands of dollars for Wangaratta’s health service. He also hosts the annual ‘Sam Miranda Tour of the King Valley’, a three day, four stage event for competitive riders, as well as the 102 kilometre ‘Sam Miranda Gran Fondo’ cycling event.
“These events are crucial to the community and the local economy and I am proud to be promoting the region’s reputation as a destination for cyclists of all levels,” Sam says.
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Freight transport and logisticsFreight transport and logistics is an important sector in Hume Region and is a significant facilitator of economic activity. Regional employment in the sector is expected to grow at an average rate of four percent up to 2016, which is greater than the national industry growth forecast.
The interstate links of the Hume corridor and the Goulburn Valley corridor are the backbone of the region’s transport network, each with major highways and rail networks connected to interstate cities and markets.
The two most populous settlements in the region, Shepparton and Wodonga, are located adjacent to the Goulburn Valley corridor and the Hume corridor, respectively. Other large settlements such as Wangaratta and Benalla are also located adjacent to the Hume corridor. The corridors converge at Seymour, providing a strategic advantage for the town, and then become one route between Melbourne and Sydney for both road and rail.
While the Hume and Goulburn Valley transport corridors have a north-south alignment, key east-west road linkages also serve an important regional function and the Murray Valley Highway links the region to South Australia and New South Wales. In addition, the proposed Melbourne to Brisbane Inland Rail will provide a standard-gauge line that will support growth in freight capacity over the next 50 years.
Freight and logistics precincts, including the existing facility at Wodonga and proposed developments at Shepparton and Beveridge, as well as development potential at Mangalore, are important to the growth of this sector.
Melbourne Airport and the regional airport at Albury are both in close proximity to Hume Region and provide international and national access for freight and passengers. In addition, Mangalore Airport in the heart of the region, has the potential to play a greater role in air freight transport, along with a number of smaller regional airports that have identified a future role in freight movement.
Hume Region has two national transport corridors and direct access to four capital cities within 24 hours by road or rail.
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Health and community servicesThe health and community services sector is the third highest employing sector in Hume Region, currently employing over 12 percent of the region’s workforce. Between 2006 and 2011 it was the fastest growing sector in the region and replaced manufacturing as the largest contributor to regional employment.
Within the sector, there are employment opportunities in multiple locations across the region for registered nurses, aged and disability carers, child carers and nursing support workers. The significant growth in the region’s health and community services sector is expected to continue into the future.
Employment projections by sector Number of Jobs
2023 2031
Health Care and Social Assistance 19,588 25,151
Retail Trade 16,275 19,475
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 17,129 18,386
Manufacturing 14,886 13,206
Accommodation and Food Services 10,409 13,143
Education and Training 9,382 10,227
Construction 9,411 9,827
Public Administration and Safety 6,086 6,929
Other Services 4,748 5,390
Administrative and Support Services 4,757 5,303
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Education Hume Region has the full range of high quality early childhood education, primary and secondary school facilities, including both public and private education options. The region has a number of higher education and skills choices, including universities and vocational education and training providers, as well as centres that undertake, research, development and education in partnership with industry. Goulburn Ovens TAFE (GOTAFE) and Wodonga TAFE have campuses in Benalla, Dookie, Seymour, Shepparton, Wangaratta, Wodonga and Barnawartha. University courses are offered across the region by La Trobe University (Shepparton and Wodonga), the University of Melbourne (Shepparton, Wangaratta and Dookie) and Charles Sturt University (Wangaratta). In addition, the northern part of the region is close to education facilities in southern New South Wales.
A number of post-secondary courses and education opportunities provided in partnership with industry are offered in Hume Region through specialist facilities that function as centres of excellence in their field, including:
• Dookie Campus (University of Melbourne)• Horticulture Centre of Excellence for Industry Development - Tatura (Victorian Government and
industry partners)• Motorsports Training Australia (Wodonga TAFE)• National Centre for Equine Education, incorporating Wangaratta Equine Hospital (GOTAFE)• National Industrial Skills Training Centre (Wodonga TAFE)• Rural Health Academic Centre and Rural Clinical School – Shepparton and Wangaratta (University
of Melbourne)• Swinburne University of Technology, Deakin University and Charles Sturt University also partner
with local education providers to deliver courses in the region• Wangaratta Technical Education Centre (GOTAFE / Wangaratta High School).
DAVID HAYESLINDSAY PARK EUROA
When David and Prue Hayes decided to focus their horse training operations in a new location, they considered a range of options before settling on Euroa in Hume Region.
“We were looking for good access to water and hills, within striking distance of Melbourne and Sydney,” David says.
The Hayes developed Lindsay Park Euroa as a purpose built facility for training horses, based on the factors that had been key to the success of Lindsay Park in South Australia, with modern technologies and features included in the new setting.
David says that the Euroa location, and proximity to the Hume Highway, allows them to focus on Victorian racing while being within easy reach of Adelaide and Sydney metropolitan racing.
“We were pleased to find a number of other thoroughbred farms in the area and believe that the location is a strategic advantage. It also allows us to enjoy water-skiing at Lake Eildon and provides easy access to the snowfields in winter,” says David. 15
HUME REGION OFFERS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND A GROWING ECONOMY
WORK THE WAY YOU WANTFor city dwellers, the challenges of finding and maintaining suitable work, the daily commute and the cost of living can add up to a stressful lifestyle.
If you are looking to maintain a successful career, while escaping urban congestion and higher costs, Hume Region offers many opportunities.
There are a range of employment options available to skilled professionals, particularly in health, education, tourism, manufacturing and agriculture. It may even be the right time to buy into an existing business or start your own, as many people who have moved to the region have done.
Importantly, there are people with on the ground knowledge and contacts at each of the local councils who can help you explore the economic opportunities available in Hume Region.
DR CHRIS O’BRIENLOCAL GP
After completing his medical training in Adelaide, Dr Chris O’Brien was looking for an appointment that would allow him to practice as a rural GP in a region where he could enjoy outdoor recreation such as bike riding, mountain running and swimming.
He was offered a position at the Bright Medical Centre, located on the Ovens River at the foot of the Australian Alps, where he has been based ever since.
Chris says that Bright is a town with a real community feel, where people know each other and are friendly. “I certainly can’t see myself ever going back to living in a city,” he says.
While his working life is busy, part of the reason for Chris choosing a rural lifestyle is to enjoy the sport and leisure opportunities that are available. He has been able to structure his work so he can take a day during the week to enjoy mountain bike riding or other sports and still enjoy a challenging and rewarding working life.
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Digital connectivityHume Region’s commitment to digital connectivity has opened up a window of opportunity for employment in the region. Whether you are self-employed or prefer to work from home, digital connectivity makes it possible to work the way you want.
The National Broadband Network will increase the opportunity for flexible working arrangements, as well as provide increased access to markets and online services.
Business networks and connectionsWith many leading companies based in Hume Region, there are opportunities to become a local supplier to some of the strongest businesses in Australia.
Access to inter-regional and international markets is also readily available due to the region’s transport connections to capital cities and beyond.
A short commuteHume Region offers a range of employment options in the larger regional cities and centres, as well as in surrounding townships and smaller communities. In fact, a number of people choose to live in one of the many smaller towns, commuting only a short distance to their job in one of the regional cities or other areas. With many people living only minutes from where they work, the daily commute couldn’t be easier.
In addition, some parts of the Hume Region are less than an hour away from employment hubs in Melbourne’s northern and eastern suburbs. Many residents who work in the Melbourne CBD also have the option of a daily commute by rail, while still enjoying the benefits of a regional community and lifestyle.
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ENJOY THE GOOD THINGS IN LIFE
Hume Region is not only a great place for business investment, but it is also one of regional Victoria’s most liveable areas. With plenty of room to grow and a unique sense of community, residents are proud to call Hume Region home.
There are a range of housing choices, iconic cultural and recreational facilities, outdoor activities, luxurious wineries and restaurants, and comprehensive healthcare and education facilities.
Housing choices for every lifestyleHume Region’s housing market offers a wide range of choices. From family homes in quiet communities to homes on larger country blocks, as well as regional city apartments and everything in between, the Hume Region has housing options for every stage of life and every budget.
Education The region is equipped with high quality education choices and offers public and private options for kindergartens, pre-schools, primary schools and secondary schools.
Hume Region is also home to tertiary and higher education facilities, such as regional campuses of La Trobe University, the University of Melbourne and Charles Sturt University. Higher education courses are offered in sciences, arts, health and community services. Specialist education facilities are also available, with training centres in agriculture, equine management, industrial skills, motorsports, snow sports and rural health.
HealthcareThe region has both private and public healthcare services in multiple locations, including large regional health facilities and a number of smaller local hospitals. General Practitioners, aged care facilities, disability services and specialist healthcare providers are all available in the region.
Recreational and outdoor activities From cycling, camping, bush walking, water-skiing and horse riding in summer; to snow-boarding, skiing and tobogganing in winter, there is never a dull moment in Hume Region.
The alpine resorts of Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, Mount Buller, Mount Stirling and Lake Mountain provide a range of snow-based activities that will suit every member of the family.
For those with a more relaxed sense of adventure, the region’s scenic walking and cycling trails are the perfect way to enjoy the area’s stunning landscapes.
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A rich heritage and culture Whether you are looking for historical sites, country markets, wildlife parks, contemporary art galleries or bustling shopping precincts, Hume Region has it all.
For those looking to discover the region’s heritage, there are centres and places of significance that present the culture of the region’s Aboriginal people from pre-European settlement to the current day. Townships across the region are steeped in the history of the gold rush era of the 1850s.
Leading artists live and work in Hume Region, providing an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy their inspiring work in galleries and studios dotted throughout the region.
Large performing arts centres in Shepparton, Wangaratta, Wodonga and Benalla attract entertainers of national and international renown, and provide venues for conferences and community events.
The area is also home to a range of world-class wineries and restaurants that produce some of Australia’s most innovative food.
ENJOY THE GOOD THINGS IN LIFE... ESCAPE URBAN CONGESTION... GET MORE OUT OF YOUR LEISURE TIME
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A PROSPEROUS FUTURE IN HUME REGIONHume Region’s economy and communities are thriving and continue to grow. Confidence in the region’s economy is underpinning population growth, investment in new business ventures and expansion of existing operations. Overall, growth is being driven by:
• Strategic transport routes with connections to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide• Availability of productive agricultural land and access to reliable water resources• A network of high quality regional centres and service hubs• A diverse economy which includes strong manufacturing, agricultural and service sectors• An accessible and skilled workforce• Access to supportive infrastructure, including a regional freight transport and logistics network• A growing tourism sector associated with the natural environment and cultural amenities• Availability of affordable housing and high quality industrial land.
With more families and individuals choosing to make the move to Hume Region, the area’s population is expected to grow steadily over the next 10 years. Hume Region is well positioned to build on its competitive advantages and capitalise on growth through private and public investment, as well as emerging opportunities in local and Asian markets. Victorian and local government authorities across Hume Region are available to assist you to access our business advantages and lifestyle choices (refer to back cover for contact details).
PACTUM DAIRY GROUP SHEPPARTON
Hume Region’s food manufacturing industry is thriving and, with Pactum Dairy Group investing in a new $60 million UHT milk facility at Shepparton, the region’s ability to meet the increasing demand for high quality value added dairy products has significantly expanded. Further expansion at the Shepparton site is planned with the development of an integrated warehouse and distribution facility to commence in 2015.
“The new facility builds on our core strengths, including proximity to the farm gate, access to skilled labour and lower
SHEPPARTON NEWS
business costs, and will enable us to keep up with the growing demand from Asia for high quality Australian milk products,” says Mr Michael Auld, Director, Pactum Dairy Group.
The expansion has and will continue to expand opportunities for local dairy farmers and businesses and will support job creation in the supply chain for local residents. So far, the facility has established 35 full-time jobs and this number is predicted to grow significantly over the next three years.
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LINKS
www.rdv.vic.gov.au/victorian-regions/hume Regional Development Victoria’s information on Hume Region and the strategies and plans that support business investment in the region.
www.4hume.com.au Information about the 4Hume partnership group and strategic regional advocacy priorities.
www.rdv.vic.gov.au/rda-humeInformation about the Hume Regional Development Australia Committee and its regional development projects.
www.digitalhume.com.auInformation and resources that support digital readiness in Hume Region.
DISCLAIMER
This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequences which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.
PHOTO CREDITS
Visions of Victoria, La Trobe University, Wodonga City, Greater Shepparton City, Mitchell Shire, Wodonga City, Greg Scullin, Kiewa Valley Engineering, Sam Miranda King Valley, Northeast Health Wangaratta, Lindsay Park, Dr Chris O’Brien, Wangaratta Rural City, Mt Buller & Mt Stirling Alpine Resort, Wodonga City, Indigo Shire, Shepparton News, North East Water.
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LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONTACTS
Alpine Shire03 5755 [email protected]
Benalla Rural City03 5760 [email protected]
Indigo Shire03 5728 [email protected]
Mansfield Shire03 5775 [email protected]
Mitchell Shire03 5734 [email protected]
Moira Shire03 5871 [email protected]
Murrindindi Shire 03 5772 [email protected]
Greater Shepparton City03 5832 [email protected]
Strathbogie Shire1800 065 [email protected]
Towong Shire02 6071 [email protected]
Wangaratta Rural City03 5722 [email protected]
Wodonga City02 6022 9300 [email protected]
HUMEREGION
MaKe youR business, ouR business Regional Development Victoria HUME 03 5722 7101 www.rdv.vic.gov.au/victorian-regions/hume
