Western Capes Futures Symposium

The TNQ Drought Hub, Sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Enterprise (SATSIE) program are pleased to partner with the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce, Aurukun Shire Council, Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council, Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, the Weipa Town Authority, the Torres and Cape Indigenous Council Alliance, Western Cape Communities Trust and Rio Tinto to deliver the Western Cape Futures Symposium (WCSF) which be held in Weipa March 23-25.

The Western Cape consists of the communities of Weipa, Napranum, Mapoon & Aurukun, culturally rich communities with a deep connection to country. It is a vibrant, diverse region serving as the economic hub of Cape York. The region boasts numerous strategic and logistical advantages, including the northernmost deep-water port in Queensland, freight and logistics opportunities, a skilled workforce, a strong tourism industry, and an abundance of natural resources. Yet the region is facing many challenges; a transitioning economy, climate impacts, tourism impacts, infrastructure and supply chains.

The Futures Symposium provides an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Western Cape region, and explore the opportunities, potential and barriers to regional development in the Cape, by connecting innovators, industry leaders, government, traditional owners, local business and community. WCFS will explore the options around transitioning towards a more diverse and sustainable economy, enabling new industry and investment into the region.

Weipa Town Authority Elected Member and WCFS Chairperson Jaime Gane said; “We are very excited to welcome people to the Western Cape Futures Symposium. Our region may be small in numbers, but it has a big geographical footprint, it is rich in economic opportunities, natural resources and is of significant national strategic importance. The symposium gives us a genuine opportunity to connect and enhance collaboration between local residents, policy makers and key stakeholders.”

For more information:
Email symposium@westerncapechamber.com.au or Visit https://www.westerncapechamber.com.au/symposium

Image Credit: Brooke Quartermain