**Check against delivery
It is a pleasure to be here today to officially launch the refurbishment of The Old Mill, and fulfil our election commitment to the people of South Perth.
The Old Mill is one of 11 projects we committed to in order to help local tourism through Australia.
These commitments complement the well-publicised marketing initiatives of Tourism Australia and focus on building quality tourism products and attractions throughout Australia, including regional areas.
In this case, the Australian Government is rebuilding a heritage landmark.
Local heritage such as this has enormous potential.
The Old Mill, for example, is unique. It tells the story of the region, the story of the people of the time, how they lived and their ingenuity.
And if you want to understand all that, then this is the only place you can see it.
That's why we pledged $75,000 for this important refurbishment.
Today, it gives me great pleasure to be here and see this project progress.
And I know that the volunteers of the South Perth Historical Society are equally pleased.
As you can see, this project is well and truly underway as we speak.
Key aspects of the project include:
- Preservation work to address deterioration of the Old Mill and Cottage buildings.
- Painting and the installation of modern visitor facilities.
- Improving signage and the building facade.
As Tourism Minister, I have spoken often of the need to support quality attractions as a means to increase tourism in a region.
Without quality attractions a community finds it difficult to entice visitors and increase tourism interest.
This is why The Old Mill is so important for the people of South Perth. It is a popular tourist site which attracts both interstate and overseas visitors, supporting tourism in the local community.
But there is more potential here than has been realised so far.
Latest figures show that Perth receives approximately 12.6 million visitors a year, spending around $4.5 billion.
The community here in South Perth, with its proximity to the central business district is well placed to attract a greater slice of this tourism expenditure.
Attractions such as The Old Mill go a long way to increasing visitation and providing benefit to other businesses in the area.
But as I am sure you will recognise 'The Old Mill' means more than that.
The mill has incredible historical significance.
It is the oldest industrial site in Western Australia.
It remains a remnant of the first decade of European settlement in Western Australia and has considerable community and historical significance.
Which explains the passion of the South Perth Historical Society to this project.
Over the years they have sought to preserve its legacy and for an authentic restoration of this site.
The Historical Society identified a need and saw this site's potential and, through the development of a detailed conservation plan, made this site accessible to the public.
We shared their vision for this site which is why the Australian Government is pleased to support this project.
Underpinned by the continued work of volunteers over the years and the support of the community, The Old Mill is a worthy beneficiary of this funding.
If tourism is to thrive in Australia it requires the hard work and dedication of people such as the South Perth Historical Society and volunteers.
I am sure that you will all appreciate the work of these volunteers - many of whom are present today - who continue to give their time to ensure the preservation of this site for future generations.
Today we celebrate their work and commitment and the importance of their continued work to the people of South Perth.
I am sure they will be happy to show you all round the mill and share their considerable knowledge.
Once again, I congratulate you all and hope that this project will lead to further prosperity for tourism in your community.
Thank you.