Bundaberg-Hervey Bay community leaders invited to shape plan

Meetings are being held in Hervey Bay and Bundaberg today to bring a community voice to shaping the Hinkler Regional Deal, which includes the towns of Bundaberg, Hervey Bay and Childers. 

 

Federal Minister for Regional Services, Sport, Local Government and Decentralisation Bridget McKenzie said the Deal would bring together all levels of government to capitalise on the opportunities for the region, make the most of local strengths and boost economic development.

 

“The Hinkler Regional Deal for the Bundaberg - Hervey Bay region will enhance the region’s strengths by stimulating economic growth and helping to create jobs,” Minister McKenzie said.

 

“The two meetings held today will give us an opportunity to listen to local business groups and other community organisations that will help develop the Regional Deal. The discussions will assist us to shape an agreed vision and focus for the Regional Deal and the opportunities it represents.”

 

The two meetings are hosted by the Fraser Coast and Bundaberg Regional Councils, co-chaired by Minister McKenzie, Queensland Assistant Minister to the Treasury Glenn Butcher and opened by the Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt MP. 

 

“It’s great to bring all three levels of Government together today in both Hervey Bay and Bundaberg to start discussing how the Hinkler Regional Deal will take shape,” Keith Pitt, the Federal Member for Hinkler said.

“The purpose of the Regional Deal is to deliver projects which strengthen the local economy, as well as bringing long-term, sustainable jobs for the region and future generations.”

 

Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Jack Dempsey said the Deal was an opportunity to deliver well-coordinated planning, governance and infrastructure.

 

‘We welcome the opportunity to work with the Commonwealth and Queensland governments, and with Fraser Coast Council, to develop a framework for the Deal’s delivery,” Cr Depmsey said. 

 

Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor George Seymour said today was about hearing the community’s views on these priorities.

 

“We are interested in ideas that address local issues. After today’s meetings we will be holding a workshop with community leaders on how best to support local industries and encourage new businesses in tourism, manufacturing and the emerging human service sectors,” Cr Seymour said.

 

 

ENDS