28 Mar 2018 Benalla Ensign, Benalla VIC (General News) by Didier Stobart Family-owned Benalla business D & R Henderson, will receive a $1.3 million upgrade with assistance from the state government. Visiting D & R Henderson, Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford and Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced the state governments assistance would help the company secure local jobs, boost productivity and manage energy costs. The upgrade will ensure D & R Henderson, a manufacturer of softwood timber, particleboard and melamine laminated products will continue to employ 185 staff while increasing its production capacity and cutting its carbon footprint. D & R Henderson has been employing locals, including members of my family, for more than 30 years, Ms Symes said. This important upgrade secures Benalla jobs and increases production efficiency at D & R Henderson by around 40 per cent, as well as cutting its carbon footprint and gas use. While its not known if the upgrade will provide any new jobs, Ms Pulford is excited for the future of the company. With this investment, D & R Henderson has a very bright future, continuing to provide so many jobs in Benalla that benefited so many families, Ms Pulford said. The government has committed $90 million in additional funding through the Victorian 2017-18 budget to attract new businesses to the state and help existing businesses expand. There are multiple programs that can help businesses manage and reduce their energy costs by increasing their energy efficiency, supporting renewable energy generation and storage, and updating existing, and purchasing new equipment. Businesses that are major energy users, or that have experienced a large increase in the price of energy, and employ a significant number of workers, should phone Business Victoria on 132 215 or visit www.business.vic.gov.au/ energy-support Caption Text: Thrilled: State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes, Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford and Benalla Mayor Don Firth meet with D & R Executives to announce an upgrade.Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.