3 minute read
Mayor's Message
The Western Downs continues to demonstrate its place as a regional powerhouse, and despite the unprecedented challenges faced around the world during current times, our economy continues to show diversity and growth.
In the past five years our gross regional product has grown by 40% and now sits at $4.7 billion. We have an amazingly low unemployment rate of 3.2% (March, 2020) which is significantly lower than the Queensland average in the same period, further demonstrating the ongoing appetite for investment in our region.
Our four economic pillars - agriculture, intensive agriculture, manufacturing and energy continue to show positive signs of growth, and it's tremendous to be a part of this significant period in our region's history.
Our status as the 'Energy Capital of Australia' continues to develop. We now have 21 solar farm approvals and two wind farm approvals in the region, with construction also underway on Queensland’s largest gridscale battery.
Our agricultural sector continues to hold strong and delivers on its longstanding reputation for being resilient, sustainable and modern. The Dalby Saleyards remains the country’s largest same day prime and store cattle yards, with more than 200,000 cattle sold annually.
We continue to work closely with external organisations to boost economic sustainability in the region including Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) and our local Chambers of Commerce. The highly valued Business Navigator and Emerging Exporters programs also continue to provide new opportunities for our local businesses to grow their domestic market and explore new international markets.
On top of our established industries, the past year has presented an abundance of new opportunities in the area of tourism and events.
We continue to invest in the various festivals and events which play a huge role in strengthening connectedness across our towns and demonstrate the region's ability to host premier events which rival those of our neighbouring metro regions.
February saw the introduction of the region's first ever Words Out West Readers and Writers Festival which was a resounding success. The region also welcomed the stellar Reds versus Waratahs Rugby Union match, and we celebrated the opening of the Bunya Mountains Outlook - a fantastic new nature facility right on our doorstep.
The region also welcomed the return of the 'Not Just for Laughs' regional comedy roadshow in November, which promotes mental health services and is vital in providing a bit of light relief during tough times.
In March 2020 a new Council was elected, and I sincerely congratulate our new and returned Councillors and acknowledge the work of those outgoing.
The region has also faced the unprecedented challenge of a global pandemic in 2020, and Council has stepped up to the plate and committed a record $50 million to secure and create jobs and give the region the support it needs to move forward.
Focused on stimulating the economy and boosting the great liveability of the region, the COVID-19 Recovery Package is delivering various support programs for residents, businesses and community groups, and a variety of infrastructure projects. Some of these projects focus on enhancing our much-loved community facilities to not only enhance leisure opportunities for residents, but also create tourist destinations for visitors to come and spend in our towns.
The work is only just beginning, and the year ahead presents a unique opportunity to build on the wonderful liveability of the region and deliver projects the community will love.
I congratulate all staff who make up Western Downs Regional Council and look forward to the year ahead and working for and alongside our communities to further enhance our region and create strong economic prosperity for the future.
Mayor Councillor Paul McVeigh Portfolio - Executive Services
Phone: 07 4679 4004 Mobile: 0408 700 392 paul.mcveigh@wdrc.qld.gov.au
