HRDC Supports Local Businesses With Storm Recovery

Harden Murrumburrah Regional Development Corporation (HRDC) has supported local businesses with funding to assist in their recovery from the hailstorm that devastated Harden Murrumburrah on February 10.

A total of $112,500 in funding was shared between 18 businesses to provide support following the storm.

HRDC’s purpose is to facilitate and run charitable projects or initiatives which are of general benefit to the public within and beyond the rural and regional locations of Harden-Murrumburrah.

Following the devastating storm, ensuring local businesses were able to maintain operating was a high priority for HRDC.

HRDC was at the time without a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) however the Committee worked alongside Community Engagement Officer Antonia Brown to quickly to develop a Discretionary Financial Relief Initiative.

41 businesses across Albury and Neill Streets were provided an opportunity to apply for funding.

Of the 18 that applied for finanical relief, all met the criteria for funding.

HRDC now has a new CEO in place, with Melissa Pinney starting in her new position just over a month ago.

She is the first female in the role and has strong local connections with five generations of her family living and working in the area.

“I am excited to build on the great work HRDC has already done to support the twin towns of Harden-Murrumburrah,” said Melissa.

“HRDC is in a unique position to help the community in ways not available to most other rural and regional communities. As CEO, I will play a key part in developing and implementing initiatives that benefit our local community.”

“I feel honoured to do this work alongside HRDC’s Community Engagement Officer, the incredible volunteer HRDC Committee members, and in collaboration with Hilltops Council.”

“As well as large future-focused projects that will help develop and grow our twin towns, HRDC is also working on small but practical projects such as the establishment of a local Community and Business Directory.”

“This online resource will help locals and visitors more easily access all the services available in Harden-Murrumburrah.”

“The Harden Laundromat, another initiative of HRDC, is also back up and running with new machines available for use by both locals and visitors to the area,” said Melissa.

Melissa can be contacted on 0412 325 895 or via ceo@hrdc.org.au for anyone interested in learning more about the work of HRDC.