2.
Setting the Scene
2.1
Clarence Valley overview
Rural economy
Clarence Valley is the largest LGA on the North Coast and
As a major component of the Clarence Valley’s rural lands, the
encompasses an area of 10,441km . Approximately 69% of the LGA is
agriculture, forestry and fishing industry employs more than 1,300
part of an RU or rural zone, with a significant portion of the LGA also
people1 and more than 3,800 people are employed in the agri-food
consisting of bushland, national park or drinking water catchments,
economy2. This sector is also the largest export sector in the LGA,
including a further 6% of conservation (previously known as
close to double the next sector (manufacturing) and having almost
“environmental”) zones that are subject to this Strategy process.
doubled in value since 2014/15 – including an almost tripling of
2
Grafton was the first city on the North Coast and remains a significant
agricultural exports3.
regional centre. Other important town centres include Maclean and
While forestry, sugarcane, beef, dairy and aquaculture have long been
Yamba, as well as smaller townships along Clarence River, along the
established, emerging industries such as berries, macadamia nuts, as
coast and throughout the hinterland.
well as specialist food and vegetables are also developing. Added
The upgraded Pacific Highway links the towns and industries of the Clarence Valley with the Far North Coast and the substantial population base of Southeast Queensland. The standard gauge rail
value is being garnered through a trend of consumers wanting to know where and how food has been produced, with premiums placed on sustainability, social benefits, local connection and history.
link between Brisbane and Sydney passes through Grafton and the Clarence Valley Regional Airport provides direct flights to Sydney and beyond. facilitator
69% of Clarence Valley land is within a Rural “RU” zone
1
6% of Clarence Valley land is within a Conservation “C” zone
2019/2020 ID Economy Full-time equivalent employment by industry sector https://economy.id.com.au/clarence-valley/employment-by-industry-fte - accessed 28 August 2021
Clarence Valley Council Rural Lands Strategy – Background Paper
7.8%
26%
of Clarence Valley employment is in agriculture, forestry and fishing in 2019/20
of all Clarence Valley exports ($216M) in agriculture, forestry and fishing in 2019/20
2
Clarence Valley Local Strategic Planning Statement (2020)
3
Total exports by industry sector - https://economy.id.com.au/clarence-valley/exports-by-industry accessed 10 November 2021
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