New Economic Development Advisory Committee helps lead our future

Published on 01 November 2017

As Rockhampton Regional Council continues to roll out its Economic Development Strategy, a group of local ‘industry champions’ have been selected to form an Advisory Committee. The Committee will provide support and guidance to Council’s Economic team, Advance Rockhampton.

Made up of eight key industry professionals from within the Rockhampton Region, the committee met for the first time on Monday and received a briefing on Council’s economic activities and began consideration of what a City Deal might look like.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said the ‘Industry Champions’ provide another layer of conversation which will be beneficial to Council’s activities moving forward.

“Since Council adopted its Economic Action Plan at the end of last year, more than a third of the recommendations of this four-year plan have already been implemented. Each one is set to create local jobs, attract more private sector investment, grow our key industries and drive economic growth,” Mayor Strelow said.

“Working closely with the business industry, we welcome the feedback of the advisory committee on the direction Council is taking with our Advance Rockhampton team and will continue to meet every two months to provide updates on our progress.”

The professions of committee members reflect the key projects Council’s Advance Rockhampton team are focusing on. These include the Airport, defence, trade and investment, agriculture, tourism and events.

General Manager of Advance Rockhampton, Tony Cullen, said Council’s fresh approach to being the lead Economic Development Organisation for the Region and working with the business community will result in the ability to capitalise on these projects.  

“Over the past twelve months, Council has truly set a clear example and is pushing ahead to hold the course for a much brighter future. Now that Council has laid the groundwork, we are seeing green shoots in the economy,” Mr Cullen said.

“We look forward to working closely with industry leaders, and I am sure their skills and expertise will make a vital contribution to future economic growth.”

Economic Development Advisory Committee Members:

Rockhampton Regional Council members include Mayor Margaret Strelow, Councillors, CEO Evan Pardon, General Manager of Advance Rockhampton Tony Cullen and Manager of Regional Development and Promotions Chris Ireland.