Port Pirie Greening Grants Program

The Hon. A. PICCOLO (Light) (15:05): My question is to the Minister for Human Services. Can the minister advise the house how the Malinauskas Labor government is supporting a greener and healthier Port Pirie?

The Hon. N.F. COOK (Hurtle Vale—Minister for Human Services) (15:05): I thank the member for the question. The state government is supporting a range of programs to make Port Pirie a greener and healthier town. The Nyrstar smelter in Port Pirie is an important part of South Australia's industrial base. The smelter has operated continuously for 130 years and employs 800 workers and supports a further 300 contractors.

The smelter also produces lead dust that can be a health hazard. That is why both Nyrstar and the state government invest together to address the issue. The South Australian Housing Trust recently announced a $2.5 million project to complete lead abatement work on 42 public housing properties. This work will include removing old lead paint, removing contaminated topsoil, laying down crushed rock and improving the sealing of homes to prevent dust from getting inside.

Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting the Upper Spencer Gulf with a range of my colleagues, including the Minister for Local Government, the Minister for Police and Emergency Services and the Minister for Consumer and Business Services, as well as the member for Giles. During the trip, I visited Port Pirie to announce the successful applicants for the Port Pirie Greening Grants. In addition to the work of the South Australian Housing Trust to improve the safety of homes, the Greening Grants Program is run by the Department of Human Services and helps community groups to improve the safety of public places.

Organisations were able to apply for grants of up to $10,000 each. I had the great pleasure of announcing seven successful organisations during my trip to Port Pirie. I was welcomed to Port Pirie by Phil and Julie Harvey, who are two of the cornerstones of the Port Pirie Community Garden—and a very impressive place that is. The garden was facing potential closure without extra help, so I was thrilled to let them know that their application for $8,654 had been approved. The grant means that they can keep on producing everything from citrus and guavas to beans and even lettuce. Sadly, no brussels sprouts, which are one of my favourites—I know that is polarising.

An honourable member: Shame!

The Hon. N.F. COOK: Yes, shameful—but I think they are going to now, actually. Luckily, being set on the site of an old tennis court, there are already high fences in place to protect the very valuable lettuces. Even more important than producing the food, the community garden brings older and younger members of the community together. It teaches children about the joy and importance of growing fresh and healthy food.

Other recipients of the grants included the Woodward Park Upgrade Committee, who received $10,000; Uniting Country SA, who received $9,695 to renew outdoor spaces at the Port Pirie Community Centre; the Port Pirie Amateur Anglers Association, who received $10,000; the Port Pirie Equestrian Club, who received $8,642; the Port Pirie Kennel Club, who received $9,500; and the Mid North Archers, who received $7,079. Many of the organisations will use funding to lay down crushed rock, which helps to suppress the dust, to establish new plants that both green the environment and help to manage dust.

These grants mean that locals can enjoy their outdoor spaces, play sport, engage in recreation and come together, not just generationally but as a community. Our government is a proud supporter of both industry and, in particular, our amazing regional centres.