Nestled under the gum trees at Esperance’s iconic niche bakery, the Hon Don Punch MLA, Minister for Regional Development, gathered with previous Regional Economic Development (RED) Grant recipients to celebrate Esperance-based business, Bread Local’s, official project completion.
Bread Local received $129,000 funding through the State Government’s RED Grant Program, which supported the purchase of essential equipment and important upgrades to infrastructure and facilities at the bakery. These recent improvements have seen the bakery heaving with sweets and alive with activity during the recent months.
Guests at today’s celebration were treated to a tour of the bakery’s newest developments, a bespoke lunch menu and some inspiring words from both Minister Punch and Bread Local Business Owner, Tiffany Brown.
“This funding has allowed us to significantly increase our production by providing a much-needed power and equipment upgrade. We now have the capacity to host a range of food and outdoor events, as well as providing additional services, recreational activities and employment opportunities among our community”.
“A diverse hospitality industry enriches the liveability of our region and bolsters our tourism offering. We have been able to extend our trading hours to include Saturdays, and continue to grow and improve the service we provide to our local community and visitors to our region”, Tiffany said.
Minister Punch acknowledged the positive outcomes of Bread Local’s project, along with the other Esperance-based REDs recipients, attributing them all to the stimulation of local job creation, boosting service, supply, innovation and economic growth to the region.
Round 7 of the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grant Program is due to open soon. Businesses or organisations with project proposals are encouraged to contact the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission (GEDC) on 08 9080 5000 or at grants@gedc.wa.gov.au.