Regional Leadership Network in Weipa

During a recent trip to Weipa, Professor Hurriyet Babacan was asked to deliver a joint presentation with Neil O’Brien, CEO of the Gulf Savannah Development, to the Queensland Government Regional Leadership Network. (Pictured above inset) 
The Regional Leadership Network is made up of senior government representatives, industry, peak bodies and key stakeholders. Forum members are appointed by the Premier and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Members are not remunerated for participation in Forums.

The presentation focused on how the Cape York, Torres Strait and Gulf region presents significant opportunities for scaleable change over time in alignment with the Northern Australia Agenda. The Cape, Torres and Gulf region has the potential to become one of Australia’s most recognisable, sustainable and economically diverse regions due to Indigenous cultures, established townships, environment, regional connectivity (PDR, airports) and strategic importance.

While challenges exist around: land planning/tenure, freight, infrastructure (digital, transport, energy), workforce, social challenges, education & training, severe climatic events, opportunities exist in defence, tourism, agriculture, fishing, aquaculture, eco system services, mining, health and social services, arts and culture and Indigenous led economic development.

Neil highlighted some of the opportunities for greater supply chain linkages between the Port of Weipa and Karumba and the need and the benefits of pan regional approaches.

The joint presentation was well received and the Development in the Tropics Team will continue to work with Gulf Savannah on collectively supporting regional priorities and implementation pathways that support Cape York, Torres Strait and Gulf regions.

Image below: Workshop participants. Credit: Jennifer McHugh