Economic Development Forum the start of something special

26 November 2019

Economic development is looking very strong following the inaugural Economic Development Forum held in Gunnedah this month.

Regional Development Australia Northern Inland (RDANI) held its first Economic Development Forum recently, with local government Economic Development Managers from Gunnedah, Glen Innes, Moree Plains, Liverpool Plains and Armidale Regional Councils, as well as AusIndustry in attendance.

Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said Gunnedah Shire’s own economy was showing great resilience during a challenging time, and the forum was a great opportunity to share both those challenges and strengths.

“It was exciting to see this initiative kick off in Gunnedah,” Ms Hoddle said.

“It is really valuable to pool our knowledge and share what has worked for our Shires. If we work together, we can build our economic bases, learn about other initiatives and opportunities, and create a sustainable future.”

RDANI Chair Russell Stewart said the inaugural event had been so successful, it would be held regularly.

“This is the start of something really positive for the region,” Mr Stewart said.

“We’re all busy, so it is tough to take a day out to get together but this forum was extremely worthwhile and greatly appreciated by the Economic Development Managers.”

RDANI Executive Director Nathan Axelsson said economic development managers were invited to the forum from the 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs) that make up the Northern Inland region.

“Our aim was to facilitate the exchange of information on the latest Regional Development Australia Northern Inland projects, grant and funding opportunities, best practice and the barriers to economic development efforts in our local councils,” he said.

“Our Local Government Areas are interconnected and a big-picture regional approach just makes sense.”

Photo caption: Economic Development Managers meet at the Economic Development Forum held in Gunnedah this month.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.