Murrayville residents have a permanent source of fuel for the first time in more than eight years following the opening of the township’s new fuel facility, Murrayville Community Fuel.
The breakthrough follows Mildura Rural City Council taking on the final stages of project delivery late last year in a bid to see it completed.
Councillor for Economic Development Stefano de Pieri said the new unstaffed fuel facility pumped its first litres of fuel last month.
“From an economic development perspective, a permanent source of fuel in the town makes it more attractive for travellers to stop while passing through, spending money in local businesses,” Cr de Pieri said.
“It’s also an opportunity for visitors to explore Murrayville’s hidden wonders.”
Councillor for Agriculture and Agribusiness Ian Arney said Murrayville Community Fuel represented a major milestone for the Murrayville community.
“Residents, businesses and the farming community have been waiting a long time for this facility and it’s great to see it’s now a reality,” Cr Arney said.
“It will mean that for the first time in almost a decade residents will no longer need to travel interstate or more than half an hour simply to access fuel.
Cr Arney thanked the Murrayville community for its patience and contributions to the project, as well as the Victorian Government, which contributed $400,000 to the project through its Regional Infrastructure Fund.
Murrayville and District Liaison Committee Inc member Kieran Kelly said it was a proud moment for the community to announce the opening of the Murrayville Community Fuel Station.
“We’re very excited to have this facility now in a 24/7 format for locals, farmers and tourists to use any time,” Mr Kelly said.
“A big thanks for the support and patience shown by the community to get this project completed.
“We have further works planned, including tourist information and signboards highlighting some of Murrayville’s proud heritage.”