THE future of Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture (MCA) was on the agenda during a crucial meeting last week.
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Leeton Shire Council mayor Paul Maytom and general manager Jackie Kruger met with Member for Murray and Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli and NSW Minister for Primary Industries Niall Blair in Sydney late last week to discuss the college and the plans for its future.
In 2013 the state government announced it would form a reference group to create a business plan that would see the college re-established following on from the Pratley review into agriculture and education in NSW.
The review was conducted to identify what could be done to strengthen ties between education and the agriculture sector and their future.
During last week’s meeting, councillor Maytom said he presented a strong view to the ministers.
He said it was vital for the facility to be reinvigorated and its use optimised.
It was proposed a business approach could see many different partners associated with the site which could help with long-term financial sustainability.
Cr Maytom said council had offered to participate in working out options for the MCA, including brokering relationships with potential partners and, where required, seeking grant funding.
“We sometimes have businesses and educational bodies approaching us for ideas on where to set up in Leeton shire and it would be excellent to optimise the use of the wonderful range of facilities currently sitting underutilised at the institute,” Cr Maytom said.
“The ministers were receptive to the delegation from council.”
During the discussions, Mr Blair confirmed a charter for the Yanco Agricultural Institute Development Group was being firmed up.
He also extended an invitation council to be represented on the group.
Development group chairman and Murrami resident Peter Herrmann was also in attendance at the meeting.
“I am looking forward to strengthening the relationship between council and the development group,” he said.
“Working collaboratively will facilitate good communication and mutual understanding of the opportunities and constraints that we are working to.”
The development group will continue to look into ways the MCA can be utilised.
“I am delighted that we can be closer to the action,” Cr Maytom said.
“Our general manager will be nominating a suitable representative to participate on council’s behalf in the coming week.”
The college has been re-opened in a commercial capacity, with organisations and residents holding special functions and events at the facility.