Thursday, October 19, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Councillor Column

Councillor Michael Detenon

Chances are, you've witnessed the initial groundwork commencing along the highway opposite the show grounds, signalling the commencement of the Ayr Industrial Estate expansion.

One of my key priorities as Councillor was to see further economic development in the Shire. In 2020 Council established an Economic Development Advisory Group to serve in an advisory capacity to Council in relation to key strategies, projects and initiatives related to economic development. I am fortunate to have been appointed as the Councillor representative on this group. This group provides ongoing support to assist and guide Council in the implementation of the Burdekin Economic Development Strategy and Burdekin Tourism Strategy. The group also facilitates and promotes significant economic and tourism opportunities for the Burdekin Shire which lead to increased employment opportunities, new industry development, growth and retention of existing business, attraction of new residents and increased visitor activity.

Council has been lobbying for funding for the Industrial Estate expansion for many years, recognising its potential to redefine the economic landscape of the community that will offer benefits that stretch far beyond business growth.

The expansion will create new industrial allotments, through a staged development, adjoining the existing Ayr Industrial Estate. The project will allow for both existing businesses to expand as well as attracting new business and investment in the shire. This expansion will provide much needed industrial land for Ayr and the surrounding region, establish new services, create local employment opportunities and enable economic development delivering significant social and economic benefits for the community.

I envisage a future where local businesses thrive, job opportunities multiply and existing and new residents are encouraged to live, work, play, visit and invest in this wonderful part of North Queensland.

The Industrial Estate expansion, due to be completed at the end of 2024, is more than just an economic development project; it's a catalyst for positive change and growth within the Burdekin Shire.

I am excited to be part of a Council that sees the benefits of investing in this significant project. Congratulations to the team at Burdekin Life, it is great to have a local paper back in our community and thank you to the businesses for supporting this publication and helping it come to life.

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