Connectivity will drive the agenda for the third Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Bush Councils Convention, set to attract more than 100 government, industry and academic delegates to Charters Towers next week.
Hosted in the historic The World Theatre from 9-11 August, the biennial event is an opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Queensland’s regional, rural and remote communities.
Mayor Liz Schmidt said Council was looking forward to welcoming many Councils from across the state to our beautiful city, to discuss important concepts in encouraging innovation in regional areas. It will be great to see so many delegates exploring the Region, and supporting local businesses whilst they are in town.
“Bush councils are integral in supporting communities to harness their potential, not only as providers of essential infrastructure, but facilitators of vital business connections” Cr Schmidt said.
“The convention will delve into how these trends can be harnessed for stronger productivity, job creation and trade opportunities.
Rural and regional communities make a significant contribution to Australia’s economic prosperity. Improved connectivity enables flexible working arrangement, further growth in agribusiness and knowledge based industries, and a boost in shared innovation.”
“The Bush Councils are those Councils located west of the Great Divide, with the convention drawing council delegates from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the NSW border. The conference will be attended by Mayors, Councillors and staff of Councils in the catchment area, as well as industry representatives” said Cr Schmidt.
Council will be hosting “Technical Tours” on Wednesday 9 August from 3:15pm. The Technical Tours will visit Towers Hill Water Infrastructure Upgrade, Towers Hill Bunkers, the HM Clarke Saleyards, the Gill Street Reconstruction and the Venus Battery before returning to the Stock Exchange Arcade for the Meet & Greet on Wednesday evening.
“We will be showcasing key projects around Charters Towers, followed by networking opportunities through the trade pavilion and evening functions.”
Sessions will cover topics spanning from regional economic transition to trade and investment, innovation, tourism, water supply regulation and asset management.
Patrice Brown, Telstra Business Women’s Queensland Entrepreneur 2016, will also return to Charters Towers as the keynote speaker, focusing on how disruption, creativity, innovation and communication can come together with science and business to empower communities.
Notable speakers include Dr Leonie Pearson, Leader of Major Research Projects from the Regional Australia Institute; and Virginia Greville, Chief Executive Officer of Trade and Investment Queensland.
The Conference dinner will be held at All Souls St Gabriels School, Halse Hall on Thursday evening at 7pm. The dinner will be showcase local products prepared by celebrity chef, Celebrity Chef Alastair McLeod with the assistance of ASSG staff and students. Speed artist Brad Blaze will produce a painting for auction to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Local country singer/songwriter Ron Sellars will also entertain guests at the dinner.
The convention has previously been held in Longreach and St George.