First sod turned at the new Centre for Innovation in Agriculture at North Dandalup

NEW agricultural breakthroughs and high-tech jobs will flow from the development of the Centre for Innovation in Agriculture in the Peel region where construction starts soon.

Canning MHR Andrew Hastie, who turned the first sod for the new centre in North Dandalup today, said the project would improve the quality and capability of the Peel’s existing agriculture sector.

“The Centre for Innovation in Agriculture will boost local Agri-research through construction of a new laboratory building, complete with a computer lab, DNA genomics and a microbiology lab,” he said.

“This will go hand-in-hand with a business incubation facility and provide new office space.

“The Centre is designed to conduct research that will lead to more productive and sustainable agriculture in the Peel region.

“We want to help farmers produce even higher quality food that can break into premium markets.”

“Supporting initiatives like this is just one way the Federal Government is backing local industries and jobs growth in the Peel region.”

The Centre for Innovation is an initiative led by Professor Roger Dawkins, in partnership with Murdoch University, Peel Development Commission and the Shire of Murray.

The project received $2.5 million last year from the Building Better Regions Fund.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the $2.5 million investment would provide a substantial economic boost to the Peel region and surrounding area.

“Once complete, the centre will provide businesses, researchers and entrepreneurs with access to quality laboratory facilities, meeting rooms, workstations and livestock,” he said.

“In addition to the 10 jobs created during the construction phase, the facility will deliver another 30 ongoing roles once the project is up and running, will attract new business and entrepreneurs and create a strong network of agricultural science in the Peel.