REGIONAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT TOUR ANNOUNCES $1 M FOR CELLULOSE VALLEY TECHNOLOGY PARK  June 2000

The Hon Harry Woods, Minister for Regional Development announced an allocation of $1 million for the Cellulose Valley Technology Park, during the fourth Regional Business Investment Tour in Lismore on Friday 16 June 2000. This funding follows many approaches made to the State Government to recognise the significant importance of the world's first Technology Park of natural plant products.

The Regional Business Investment Tours gave Sydney-based investors, financiers and venture capitalists an understanding of the investment opportunities that exist in many of our region. In essence the tours enable them to run their businesses better by opening their eyes to the opportunities in country NSW. It also allows country business operators and organisations the opportunity to show off their wares, forge contacts, and understand what the investors are looking for and expect from a potential partner.

Three tours have been conducted bringing together over 50 representatives of Australia's investment institutions and some 200 regional businesses.

COUNTRY EMBASSY AND TRADE & INVESTMENT CENTRE

The NSW Trade & Investment Centre and Country Embassy is the premier marketing venue for regional organisations wanting to promote their business to clients in Sydney.

During last year alone, there were more than 25,000 visitors to both venues.

With regard to the Country Embassy in particular, there were 176 events staged with 8,425 people attending. The Country Embassy showcases commercial investment opportunities and promotes the products, services and capabilities of the regions.

Meanwhile, the NSW Trade & Investment Centre continues to offer a comprehensive business and economic information service to international clients. Overseas visitors have direct access to information on New South Wales' economic climate using the latest multimedia technology as well as access to a selection of professional advisors.

In February 2000, the Minister for Regional Development wrote to all local government Councils in regional areas, all Regional Development Boards and all Business Development Organisations offering the opportunity for the use of the Trade and Investment Centre and the Country Embassy for networking receptions, displays and briefings for international visitors during the Olympic games period. In addition, the government is also supporting regional business seminars being organised by the Chamber of Commerce.

Any business interested in utilising these facilities should contact my office for further assistance.