DEPUTY Premier Peter Ryan turned the first sod of Wimmera Uniting Care's $9.3-million community service centre project in Horsham on Wednesday.
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Mr Ryan said it was great to be in Horsham to honour his election promise to the Wimmera.
"This is one of those red letter days they don't come along very often," he said.
"This project has a wonderful story and demonstrates the contributions Wimmera Uniting Care has made to the community over the years.
"Each year the organisation assists more than 7000 people.
"As a government, we are trying to run the economy well, but we are also doing everything we possibly can to look after those less fortunate, the vulnerable in our society."
Mr Ryan said the State Government had provided $2.5 million for the project and the Federal Government and Wimmera Uniting Care had contributed $3 million each.
"It is just a fantastic result and demonstrates the importance of partnerships," he said. "This will provide a community hub and create 38 jobs in the course of construction.
"There will also be 67 jobs in the longer-term.
"I do congratulate everyone involved."
Prior to the sod turning, Mr Ryan presented at a Horsham business breakfast at Horsham Sports and Community Club.
More than 60 people attended, including Member for Lowan Hugh Delahunty and Member for Western Victoria David O'Brien.
Mr Ryan said the Wimmera was an important agricultural region for Victoria.
"The Wimmera is also home to strong and close knit communities," he said.
"Horsham plays an essential role, serving as the major retail, business and service centre in the region."