Rockhampton and CQ to be represented at Land Forces 2022
Published on 27 September 2022
Rockhampton Regional Council is putting its best foot forward on the international front attending the upcoming Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition.
The 3-day event hosted in Brisbane will be a key meeting hub for thousands of Australian and international industry, defence, academia and government, as the Australian Army implements the most substantial period of recapitalisation and optimisation since the Second World War.
Mayor Tony Williams is particularly looking forward to hosting defence officials and industry delegates at the City of Rockhampton Official Luncheon to be held during the expo.
“Central Queensland is already a major contributor to the Australian Defence Forces’ current capabilities, and we look forward to attracting further opportunities,” Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams said.
“We want boots on the ground in Rockhampton and as outlined in our recent Central Queensland Regional Organisations of Councils Defence submission, our goal is to establish a new Army Barracks in Rockhampton. Having a profile and presence at events like these are vital for the progression of these plans.”
Mayor Tony Williams will be joined by other Central Queensland Mayors and the regions lead economic development agency, Advance Rockhampton to speak one on one with defence industry officials and providers.
“Our trade stall at the Land Forces 2022 Expo will market the benefits of defence forces and defence suppliers locating themselves in the region and we will continue to highlight the existing opportunities we offer in heavy vehicle maintenance and engineering,” Advance Rockhampton Executive Manager, Greg Bowden said.
In existence since 1965, and now with the $2.25 billion Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative, Shoalwater Bay plays an important part in making Central Queensland as the leading defence training destination for Australian and international defence forces.
The relationship with the Singaporean Defence Force continues to strengthen with Exercise Wallaby currently in operation throughout September and October now in its 32nd year.
“These exercises have forged an enduring friendship between Australia and Singapore and they provide a positive economic benefit to our region. Along with mining and agriculture attracting a larger defence presence in Central Queensland is important in growing and diversifying our local economy.”
For more information about Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition, head to https://www.landforces.com.au/ and for more about economic development in the region head to https://www.advancerockhampton.com.au/