News Archives - RAPAD (2024)

More than seventy locals are better equipped for workplaces in central western Queensland after completing targeted hands-on training over the past two and a half years.

The Regional Skills Investment Strategy (RSIS) was funded by the State Government and delivered by the Remote Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) to deliver face to face training over a range of industries.

Coordinator Liza Cameron says the program which targeted people who were struggling to find work and employers wanting to upskill their workforce has been a huge success.

“Seventy percent of our graduates are employed, by anyone’s measure that’s a sensational outcome,” Ms Cameron said.

Students received face to face training in the central west under the scheme in the areas of farm business management, customer service, caring workforce and sheep and wool handling.

Of the 72 participants across these areas, 26 were trained in customer service, 21 in agricultural skills and 25 in the Caring Workforce initiative which is a Skilling Queenslanders for Work project.

“This program has set some long-term unemployed people on a path that offers many more opportunities than they could have imagined and given others a skills and knowledge boost that has set their work life on an upward trajectory,” she said.

“The success of RSIS is in part due to having somebody on the ground that can get the message out to employers and individuals about what training and incentives are available and what the benefits of training are,” Ms Cameron said.

While the RSIS program has ended relevant and accessible training in the region is still available.

A new entity has been formed to create an Australian first renewable energy industrial development in rural Queensland that will lead the way in renewable manufacturing and double local employment.

A renewable energy company and a central western Queensland economic development body have formed “The Zone” a joint venture in Barcaldine in central western Queensland to create a renewable energy industrial zone, to boost jobs and investment in the region.

Sunshot Energy and the Remote Area Planning and Development board (RAPAD) have submitted an application for Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) to kick start the renewable energy industrial zone development.

This project will immediately double the number of jobs in Barcaldine and provide a basis for continued expansion of employment and income.

Sunshot Energy Chairman, Ross Garnaut says it will provide a model for rural industrial development throughout western Queensland and Northern Australia.

“The Barcaldine Renewable Energy Industrial Zone will be an important step in regional Australia playing a central role in building Australia as a Superpower in the emerging zero carbon global economy,” Professor Garnaut said.

The Zone would provide zero carbon low-cost energy for industrial users, and water, land, transport and communications and other services necessary for new industrial activities. It would demonstrate innovative zero carbon supply chains for agricultural inputs and for processing agricultural and mineral products.

The Zone would host the first commercial scale zero carbon hydrogen plant in Australia. It would also be the first site manufacturing Vanadium Electrolyte, and using the electrolyte for Vanadium flow batteries that provide storage volume and dispatch capacity suited to industrial customers.

In cooperation with local land restoration groups the Zone would use waste biomass for pyrolysis to produce char, bio-oil and bio-gas. The combustion of bio-energy for use in the Zone would also produce renewable carbon dioxide for accelerated growth in horticultural greenhouses and for conversion of renewable hydrogen-based ammonia to urea. It will initially use biomass from the invasive species prickly acacia and then biomass from new biodiverse plantings of trees with multiple sources of value, including soil regeneration.

The Zone will also support intensive horticulture, production of charcoal, and other manufacturing including production of essential oils from suitable eucalypts and eremophila mitchelli (Budah Bush).

Brisbane based oil and gas exploration company Galilee Energy is exploring options to use the industrial hub as a base for supplies and electricity generation.

Galilee Energy will explore options in the Zone including carbon capture and storage and substitution of Zone hydrogen in gas pipes.

Renewable energy supplied to the site will be provided by Sunshot Energy.

In addition to low-cost energy The Zone will provide services including water, transport infrastructure and other services required by businesses seeking to establish a presence in the Renewable Energy Industrial Zone.

RAPAD CEO David Arnold says their modelling shows stage one of the project would generate $183 million investment, 290 construction jobs and 305 ongoing full time jobs.

“We are thrilled to be a part of the new chapter in Western Queensland’s history as it builds on the regionʼs economic base creating future jobs for the Barcaldine community and our broader regions,” Mr Arnold said.

Stages two and three are also expected to generate enormous investment.

Stage 2. Total with stage two will generate $884 million investment, 610 construction jobs and 507 ongoing full-time jobs.
Stage 3. Total with stage three (extension with Galilee Energy) 1.527 billion investment, 1090 construction jobs and 572 ongoing full-time jobs.

Job seekers looking for a position in outback Queensland will find it easier with an online website dedicated to a region bursting with jobs.

Almost 100 positions are advertised on the Outback Queensland Jobs board (www.outbackqueenslandjobs.com.au) for full time, part time or casual roles in the region which extends from Cloncurry in the north to Cunnamulla in the south.

RESQ, an employment service in the region is the driving force behind the Outback Queensland Jobs board and CEO Chris Hamilton wants Australians who have lost their jobs this year to consider the possibilities of living and working in the west.

“Our region has avoided the stricter COVID19 limitations imposed on other Australians based in urban areas, so employers are still looking for employees in health, hospitality, trades, rural industries as well as government jobs,” Mr Hamilton said.

The Outback Queensland Jobs website is a free service for any employer or potential employees to post or look for positions in western Queensland.

The easing of movement restrictions and a late start to the tourist season saw the Outback’s unemployment rate decrease from 11 per cent in January to 9 per cent in June 2020, but there are still plenty of unfilled jobs in the region.

“It was quite amazing. Unlike city locations, the unemployment rate in western Queensland actually dropped during COVID-19 but statics can be misleading. There are still plenty of great jobs available and many really good employers desperate for workers,” Mr Hamilton said.

Some of the positions currently available on the website include Occupational Therapist, Teacher, Carpenter, Environmental Advisor, Tourism Trainee just to name a few.

Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) Chair, Tony Rayner is encouraging local businesses to post job vacancies on www.outbackqueenslandjobs.com.au and promote the website through their social media channels.

“Initiatives like this need to build momentum before they can deliver,”

“We know job security and high levels of employment drive a strong local economy,”

“A focused regional jobs board will help speed up the awareness and recruitment process, so we get people back into jobs as quickly as possible,” said Councillor Rayner.

The Remote Area Planning and Development board is calling for expressions of interest from graziers interested in joining with neighbours to exclusion fence their properties.

Eligible landholders and groups who want financial assistance to build strategic cluster fences and or link existing exclusion fences are encouraged to submit an expression of interest before the 18^thof September 2020.

On the 24^thof June the Queensland Government announced five million dollars for more wild dog fencing in western Queensland as part of its COVID-19 economic recovery.

RAPAD has administered all earlier rounds of cluster fencing which has delivered six million dollars in direct wages circulating through the region and created 150 new jobs.

“If the promised five million dollars of fencing is delivered in the RAPAD region in the next two years it will deliver 55 more jobs, 12 million dollars of leveraged local spending and 15 million dollars in increased property income,” RAPAD Chair Tony Rayner said.

“Landholders have until 5:30pm on the 18^thof September 2020 to submit their EOI and I encourage anyone who is interested in future fencing to do so, an EOI gives the funding government a clear understanding of interest and is need to give them confidence to release further funding,” Councillor Rayner said.

RAPAD is advocating to the Queensland and Australian Governments for the progression of strategic cluster fencing in the local government areas of the central west and north west including Barcaldine, Longreach, Blackall- Tambo, Winton, Barcoo, Boulia, Richmond, McKinlay and Flinders shires.

This is an expression of interest, and submission of a completed EOI does not guarantee funding.

Further application processes will be required for successful clusters.

The seven regions of central western Queensland are appealing to political parties and candidates running for the state election to back the region that backs itself.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is launching its state election priorities and RAPAD Post COVID-19 Central Western Queensland Recovery Plan to start a conversation with the state’s future leaders.

“RAPAD has a plan to empower, connect and support communities in the central west to prosper, we will be sharing this vision with all political parties” said Chair and Longreach Mayor Tony Rayner.

“The plan is focused on population growth, job creation and developing our strengths and investing in our industries for economic growth – we are asking for all political candidates to back the region that backs itself,” Councillor Rayner said.

The region is asking for $60m investment over the next five years to;

• empower the region through energy and education
• connect with better road and air services
• strengthen agriculture through land management
• support local businesses to prosper

“By delivering our plan the region can expect a new manufacturing centre underpinned by renewable energy, a regional centre of excellence, critical roads upgraded, an increase economic output from the agriculture sector of more than $17m and increased spending on the tourism sector as well as other initiatives,” he said.

“Any dollar invested, any collaboration formed will have a greater return on investment in central western Queensland because of the drive, innovation, production capability and hard work matched by the local community, it makes good sense to back the region that backs itself,” he said.

Members of the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils have welcomed funding from the Australian and Queensland governments which will see up to $200 million in funding invested in vital roads projects across the region.

The announcement this week means that works on key inland corridors can get underway now and over the next six months, providing an immediate boost to our regional economies, business, industry and local jobs.

The funding ticks off many of the priority road projects across the region, improving safety conditions for all road users and providing better heavy vehicle access to key cattle, mining and agriculture industry infrastructure. Importantly, our tourism sector will benefit from more sealed roads as Queenslanders are encouraged to ‘go bush’ as part of COVID-19 recovery initiatives. A safe and seamless road network that connects our communities is absolutely critical to growing the tourism industry in Western Queensland.

Jointly funded regional roads projects for the West include:

• Burke Development Road: progressive sealing
• Cloncurry – Dajarra Road: sealing and widening sections
• Gregory Developmental Road (Charters Towers – The Lynd): widening priority sections
• Richmond – Winton Road: widening priority sections
• A regional package of works will deliver targeted upgrades such as progressive sealing, pavement strengthening and widening and bridge and floodway upgrades to roads including:
  • Gregory Downs – Camooweal Road
  • Eyre Developmental Road (Bedourie – Birdsville)
  • Cramsie – Muttaburra Road
  • Balonne Highway (Bollon – Cunnamulla)
  • Mitchell Highway (Cunnamulla – Charleville)

Our roads network has a far-reaching impact well beyond this region. They are the economic arteries that connect our communities and provide critical links to the coast and ports, driving economies across the nation.

Mayor Jack Bawden, Chair of the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils said:
“The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils has consistently advocated that investment in roads is the one thing that was needed most across our region. It is good to see that the Australian and Queensland governments have been listening. The Regional Economic Enabling Fund is a very welcome start that will deliver much needed sealing of roads, pavement strengthening and widening and floodway upgrades. Importantly, it will also provide the opportunity for our local workforces to deliver many of the works. In short, keep it coming!”

Mayor Tony Rayner, Chair of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board said:
“The combined region of Western Queensland pumps billions into the economy, and the 21 councils of this region are ready to make sure that continues. Throughout the pandemic we have been working with all levels of government and our communities to ensure we can focus our efforts and investment where it is needed most. This funding adds extra fuel to the tank as we continue on the road to recovery”.

Mayor Samantha O’Toole, Chair of the South West Local Government Association said:
“This investment is welcome news as we get back to business. The funding will have a long-term effect, benefiting our local economies, industry and our local council workforce. These roads are essential links across all three regions. Works will not only boost efficiency for industry, but also ensure safe, reliable roads for locals and the many tourists we hope to see head our way now and into the future.”

Sustainable new industries, more jobs and a more robust economy in the central west is within closer reach with the Queensland Government’s investment of $300 000 towards the RAPAD initiative to develop a Renewable Energy Hub in Barcaldine.

The Remote Area Planning and Development board (RAPAD) has collaborated with leading renewable energy company Sunshot Energy to undertake a study into establishing a new solar farm that has the potential to create new industries.

The renewable energy hub project aims to;

• Create a minimum 200 new long-term full-time jobs.
• Increase the local population by 38%.
• Regional economic benefit of $41 million per annum and an annual wage increase in the region of $16.2 million.
• Generate a robust segment of the local economy which is immune to drought.

“The State Government’s support for this modern and sustainable approach to establishing emerging industries underpinned by solar power is warmly welcomed,” said RAPAD Chair Tony Rayner.

Sunshot Energy’s Executive Chairman, Professor Ross Garnaut AC has been working with RAPAD since 2017 and will carry out the study.

“This is the best solar country in eastern Australia and just about as good as any in the world,” Professor Garnaut said.

The Barcaldine Renewable Energy Hub is a RAPAD initiative developed in partnership with Sunshot Energy, Barcaldine Regional Council and other corporate partners.

“To have solar farms in our region is not enough, while we welcome forward thinking energy providers establishing themselves in our region, when the construction is complete almost all of the work and contracts dry up and the local economy sees little benefit,” Councillor Rayner said.

“If we can attract new industries in areas like manufacturing, waste management, primary production or processing that will have access to cheap and clean power, that will make a real difference in terms of jobs, the economy, sustainability and liveability of the local region,” he said.

“This is about a practical plan to generate more long-term jobs and diversify our western economies. Barcaldine were happy to opt in and take the lead in this exciting RAPAD initiative. There is still plenty of hard work to do, the Government’s support and financial contribution are gladly received at this critical time,” said Barcaldine Regional Mayor Sean Dillon.

Members of the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils welcomed the Palaszczuk Government’s latest COVID Works for Queensland program funding announcement which will see more than $25million allocated across the region.

This funding is part of the Queensland Government’s Economic Recovery Strategy which includes $200 million for a state-wide COVID Works for Queensland program to be delivered during 2020-21.

The 21 councils of the Western Queensland Alliance have stood united in responding to COVID-19 and potential impacts. Their efforts have ensured the Outback region has remained free of any confirmed cases.

The Works for Queensland funds will deliver a significant boost to the Outback councils as they get back to business as usual following uncertain times and restrictions.

Mayor Tony Rayner, Chair of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board said

“The $25million will be invested across the 21 councils ,resulting in spending right around the region, which will support jobs and local economies. We thank the government for supporting rural and remote communities. We also appreciate the simplicity and allocative approach of the program. This gives local councils better decision-making power so we can take action on current priorities for our areas.”

Mayor Jack Bawden, Chair of the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils said:

“It will mean a lot to each council. Unlike our mates in the big smoke, the council is the biggest employer in many of our local government areas and the first port of call for support for its communities and local businesses in dealing to an event like this. This funding means we can continue to support jobs and look to providing more opportunities and also spend dollars locally – where it counts.”

Mayor Samantha O’Toole, Chair of the South West Local Government Association said:

“COVID-19 effectively brought many things to a halt, but our communities are pretty tough and are ready to get going full steam ahead. These funds give an additional boost to our drive on the road to recovery and will help open more doors and create opportunities where we know we need it. Being able to get on with the job and deliver or bring forward planned works, maintenance, community wellbeing activities and other initiatives supported under the program is a great step forward for us in the remote regions.”

The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils stands ready to ensure their communities will get back to business as usual and continue to deliver the $9.5 billion we inject into the economy.

A Queensland rural financial counselling service is urging primary producers who have been unable to access government support payments because of off farm assets to relook at their eligibility.

After a lengthy review process of the Farm Household Allowance the Australian Government passed legislation which changes some key eligibility criteria.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland understands changes have been made to off-farm asset limits and now a single asset threshold of $5.5 million net assets exists.

“Any primary producer who has been knocked back for this payment in the past based on their off-farm assets should consider looking at their eligibility again,” said Rural Financial Counsellor Rachel Bock.

“Older farmers who are over the age pension age, who couldn’t access FHA in the past due to the value of their superannuation should also test their eligibility,” she said.

The Activity Supplement which funds training, upskilling and professional advice has been increased from $4 000 to $10 000. This supplement will now extend to cover travel and accommodation incurred in undertaking training.

These changes come into effect on the 11^thof June 2020 but you can apply now in readiness for new criteria.

Rural Financial Counsellors can assist in applying for Farm Household Allowance.

The seven councils of central-western Queensland have welcomed the further relaxing of travel restrictions announced by the Queensland Premier yesterday.

From midday today (June 1^st2020) there are no restrictions on Queenslanders travelling in Queensland.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) wishes to congratulate the State Government for getting on top of COVD-19 so swiftly and returning travel in Queensland back to normal sooner than expected.

“Anastacia Palaszczuk and her team have done an immense job under pressure to protect Queenslanders from coronavirus, she has introduced unpopular restrictions which have been tough on the economy but they have kept us safe and because of them, we can now start the road back to normality earlier than expected,” RAPAD Chair Tony Rayner said.

The easing of intrastate travel restrictions means that Queenslanders will be able to visit the outback during the winter school holidays which will have an immense impact on the local tourist season.

“Tourism is an exceptionally important industry in western Queensland attracting a half a billion-dollar spend each year, it is critical to the region, so we welcome the relaxation of restrictions during the most important period in our tourist season,” RAPAD CEO David Arnold said.

The earlier than expected relaxation of Queensland travel restrictions will go some of the ways to help local operators claw back some of the losses incurred at the beginning of the season.

“The industry will need support because theoutback season doesn’t start until Easter and so the timing of closures meant an extended period with very limited turnover,” he said.

Mr Arnold is part of the Premier’s Queensland Industry Recovery Alliance and is looking forward to sharing with the Government RAPAD’s COVID-19 recovery plan to demonstrate how we can contribute to Queensland’s rapid recovery.

Businesses in the central west feeling the strain from travel restrictions imposed because of coronavirus are encouraged to take part in a free risk and resilience workshop that focuses on tourism.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board is hosting a two-hour virtual workshop on tourism supply chain, risk and business resilience targeted at tourism operators, those who work in the tourism supply chain like shops, service stations, cafes, motels, pubs etc and other interested local business owners.

The workshop will be provided by Brisbane based consultancy GWI and will provide analysis and mitigation of the current COVID-19 economic challenges as well as provide insights on how digital is being used in tourism to generate revenue during COVID-19.

“Businesses will get assistance with business planning, gather insights from other business owners and be exposed to different digital business approaches and why they work,” said Neil Glentworth from GWI.

In addition to providing participants information to assist their business the workshop help RAPAD better advocate for increased support from State and Federal Governments to assist the tourism industry and small business in the region by collecting data from participants about the impact of COVID-19.

“Participants will be able to anonymously submit data during the workshop to help build a clear picture of the damage COVID restrictions have had on the industry,” said Mr Glentworth.

Interested people need to reserve their place now for the June 4 workshop through Outbackhubs.com.au.

Participants will need an internet connection and be able to input data during the workshop (via a computer, tablet or phone).

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) has welcomed state and federal government funding for key projects and road works in the region.

The Federal Government has announced a $1.8 billion support package for local government, $500 million will be distributed through the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program and $1.3 billion of the 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grant payments will be distributed.

“The Financial Assistance Grant payments are critical to local government in Western Queensland, so we are buoyed to see the program continue to be used as a mechanism to support our communities,” RAPAD Chair Tony Rayner said.

An estimated 22 new jobs will be created in the central west under projects funded by almost $4 million of the Queensland Government’s Building Our Regions Fund.

RAPAD acknowledges the contribution to the region.

“Funding these projects makes a huge difference to the prosperity of our region and enables businesses to grow or have access to additional customers,” Councillor Rayner said.

A tourist lookout will be built at the Globe Precinct in Barcaldine for $1.5 million. This development will generate five jobs and give visitors access to the outback’s beauty and vastness.

The Blackall-Tambo Regional Council has secured funding for two projects for a combined total of $654,900. The third stage of the Blackall-Tambo internet project will progress with the construction of eight solar powered towers to expand reliable internet through microwave technology. A glass sided Tambo trucking heritage building will be built to display two classic trucks permanently loaned to the community by Johnson Bros Transport.

Council owned houses and community buildings in Bedourie and Birdsville will have solar power installed through the Diamantina Solar Power Project utilising almost $1m of Building our Regions Funding.

Ten jobs will be created in Longreach with the Western Livestock Exchange Redevelopment. Eight hundred and seventy-four thousand dollars will be spent to construct new livestock weighing infrastructure, selling ring, drafting area and central building as well as upgrades to pens and latching mechanisms and the installation of ramps.

An outback economic development body has welcomed the State Government’s staged wind back of COVID-19 restrictions.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board, which is made up of the seven local government areas of the central west, congratulates the Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk for releasing a stepped process for getting Queensland’s economy moving while keeping the community safe.

“RAPAD is grateful to the Premier for this roadmap particularly the government’s willingness to listen to the needs of western Queensland and design a process which acknowledges the regions unique situation and adapts accordingly,” RAPAD Chair Tony Rayner said.

From this weekend residents of the outback can dine in restaurants, pubs and clubs with a maximum of 20 people and can drive up to five hundred kilometres.

By the 12^thof June travel anywhere in the outback for outback residents will be allowed and restaurants, pubs and clubs can welcome 50 local guests at a time.

By the 10^thof July interstate and intrastate travel will be allowed and maximum number of people in a venue will be 100.

“This relaxing of restrictions during our western Queensland tourist season will be critical for the region’s economy, a RAPAD commissioned report released in February shows that the tourism spend in the central west is in excess of half a billion dollars every year,” Councillor Rayner said.

“In order for this plan to be delivered the community needs to take diligent action on social distancing, hand washing and hygiene and follow all advice from the state’s Chief Health Officer,” he said.

“Again we thank the Premier for listening to and considering the RAPAD region, and we look forward to further working together to see our community and our economy safely out of this pandemic,” he said.

Now we must turn our attention to the road map for economic recovery and RAPAD has released several media statements calling for a western Queensland recovery package and stimulus package.

The stimulus package includes:

• Increased funding for community infrastructure programs such as the successful Works for Queensland program
• Increased funding for economic infrastructure, especially targeted at boosting investment in the regional road network
• A support package to assist outback tourism operators who – coming off the back of their offseason – will miss their critical peak season and are unlikely to generate any significant turnover until winter 2021
• Investment in promoting the Outback as a tourism destination when the pandemic passes to counter the State closing its borders
• Increased funding for skills development, financial counselling and other training programs
• Increased funding for economic development initiatives related to new business models associated with the digital economy and entrepreneurship.

“Our tourism sector needs financial assistance to return to full operation, even with unrestricted travel the reduced numbers in venues will hinder the of profitability for some larger operators,” Tony Rayner said.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board will keep driving forward with key region building work under its new board.

The new RAPAD board is made up of all the Mayors from the seven councils of the central west who were ratified at the board meeting on Friday.

Longreach Regional Council Mayor Tony Rayner has been elected Chair.

“RAPAD is about supporting all of our seven member councils and working as a collective group with common interests and challenges,” he said.

“RAPAD has worked with neighbouring regions to secure $185million of State and Federal funding for roads across outback Queensland.

“We have worked collectively as the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils to put a COVID stimulus package to the State Government

“The cluster fencing programs continue to deliver for local sheep producers and the wider community. The project’s success is held high as a state-wide example of success.”

“Innovation and energy continue to be our focus as drivers for economic growth,” Councillor Rayner said.

Barcoo Shire Mayor Sally O’Neil has stepped from being Barcoo Shire Council employee to into the civic leadership role.

“I’m looking forward to working with the broader leadership team of the central west region to collectively get a better deal for all of us,” she said.

“I’ve been involved in RAPADs technical committees for Outback Regional Roads and Transport Group as well as the RAPAD Water and Sewage Alliance so I’m no stranger to RAPAD but the strategic side of the organisation will be new for me,” she said.

The remaining directors are Andrew Martin Blackall Tambo Regional Council, Sean Dillon Barcaldine Regional Council, Gavin Baskett Winton Shire Council, Rick Britton Boulia Shire Council, Robert Dare Diamantina Shire Council.

The RAPAD organisation is responsible for RAPAD, RAPAD Skilling, Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland.

Members of the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils have welcomed the decision by the Australian and Queensland governments to deliver $185million of vital roads project funding ahead of planned investment timeframes.

The announcement this week means works will commence sooner on key inland freight corridors providing an important stimulus response to support regional communities, business and industry at this critical time.

Works will include sealing roads, building overtaking lanes, upgrading intersections and improving safety.
Jointly funded regional roads projects for the West include:

• Flinders Highway
• Kennedy Developmental Road (Hann Highway)
• Carnarvon Highway, Dawson Highway and Dawson Developmental Road (Springsure – Tambo)
• Gulf Developmental Road
• Balonne Highway,
• and the local government-controlled Floraville Road in Burke Shire.

Roads are the economic arteries that connect our communities with each other and beyond. They provide vital links to the coast and ports, driving economies across the nation.

The 21 councils of the Western Queensland Alliance stand ready to ensure our communities can bounce back and continue to deliver the $9.5 billion we inject into the economy.

Mayor Jack Bawden, Chair of the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils said: “We are fortunate to be COVID-19 free in our region, however we are still feeling the massive impact across our industries and businesses. The announcement of this funding being fast-tracked is a good step from both levels of government and will help stimulate our local economies. We certainly will be looking to ensure our council workforces get the opportunity to deliver some of these works. However, there are other essential links across the regions that need to be upgraded and we look forward to further funding announcements by the state and federal governments in coming months.”

Mayor Tony Rayner, Chair of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board said: “The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils had already outlined in its 2020 State Budget submission that the one thing that was needed most was investment in roads. We are pleased to see that both the Australian and Queensland governments agree.”

Mayor Stuart Mackenzie, Deputy Chair of the South West Local Government Association said: “Time and time again it’s been proven that local councils are best placed to deliver essential infrastructure programs as noted in the LGAQ’s COVID-19 $600 million Battle Plan. We know the priorities, have the people to deliver and just get on with it. What we need now is a steady stream of announcements like this to keep our communities firing as part of the COVID-19 recovery phase.”

All outback Queensland communities applaud the State Government for taking additional measures to help keep the region COVID-19 free.

The Western Queensland Alliance of Local Councils – a group representing 21 councils of outback Queensland – has moved to acknowledge the responsive leadership shown by the state government to address the Alliance’s concerns over the potential of government employees to spread coronavirus as they return from Easter leave.

A new protocol has been approved by the Chief Health Officer which applies to the movement of Queensland Government employees and contractors with regards to travel to Western Queensland.

“This action provides assurances to Western Queensland councils and communities that all possible measures are being taken by the government to stop COVID-19 entering our region,” said Jack Bawden Carpentaria Mayor and North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils.

Under the protocol any employee or contractor intending to travel to Western Queensland or returning to work in Western Queensland local government areas must confirm they:

• do not have COVID-19 related signs or symptoms immediately before entry; and,
  have had no close contact with a confirmed COIVD-19 case; and
  have not travelled interstate, overseas or to a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days.
• All employees will be screened by their employer before entry for the following symptoms and will not be allowed to enter region if they present with;
• a fever of 38 degrees or above; or
• a history of fever; or
  symptoms of acute respiratory infection.

“We raised our concerns that teachers returning from leave could unintendedly bring the virus into our communities, so to see this protocol applied to all government employees is more that we had asked for,” said Andrew Martin Blackall-Tambo Mayor and Deputy Chair of Remote Area Planning and Development Board

The protocol will remain in place until the pandemic ends and applies to the following local government areas Balonne, Barcaldine, Barcoo, Blackall- Tambo, Boulia, Bulloo, Burke, Carpentaria, Cloncurry, Diamantina, Doomadgee, Flinders, Longreach, Maranoa, McKinlay, Mount Isa, Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, Richmond and Winton.

“The councils of western Queensland have already asked their own staff to take measures if they have left the region to protect the community and the development of this protocol supports our approach,” said Stuart McKenzie, Quilpie Shire Mayor and deputy chair of South West LGA

There are no cases of coronavirus in the north-west, central-west or south-west Queensland.

With the Queensland Electoral Commission declaring all local government elections in the central west a regional economic development organisation acknowledges its board of directors for the past term.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board will undergo some changes due to the outcome of the elections, with four mayors departing including former Barcaldine Mayor Rob Chandler who has been RAPAD Chair since 2012.

CEO David Arnold says Councillor Chandler brought enthusiasm, vision and passion to the role.

“His networks were extensive and his ability to talk to all levels; putting his views across in simple meaningful ways, always put the organisation and the regions needs front of mind with his audience whether it a Premier, or Prime Minister,” Mr Arnold said.

Retiring mayors, Bruce Scott OAM from Barcoo Shire and Ed Warren from Longreach Regional Council and former Diamantina Mayor Geoff Morton OAM will also be missed.

In the transition from traditional operation to functioning during COVID19 restrictions the Remote Area Planning and Development Board has not broken its stride with operations and training continuing without significant disruption.

RAPAD Skilling normally runs face to face courses in travel and tourism, Events, Community and health Support services, civil construction, first aid and business areas.

“We have adapted our delivery to make the most of modern video conferencing technology and are currently running many of our courses remotely, we even have trainers delivering the theory component of civil courses this way,” said Training Manager Stephen Rossberg.

“We have had to follow the same social distancing as everyone else so delivering training via this method means our staff and students are protected and will still receive informative professional training suited to students in this region,” he said.

RAPAD Skilling has also heavily discounted the student contribution fees associated with specific funded courses.

“Now is a great time to upskill, develop new skills or transition toward a new industry,” Mr Rossberg said.

OutbackHubs is a network of physical spaces equipped with sophisticated video conferencing equipment across the region which is available for use by the public.

Business as Innovative as Usual at RAPAD

It is also an online community which has developed to provide training and development sessions to its members.

Creator of OutbackHubs Kristine Arnold says the service is experiencing unprecedented demand in the current COVID climate.

“With this technology already in place in our region it has meant there’s been no hick ups in putting it to work daily, we really can be distant and connected,” Mrs Arnold said.

“Over the last three years we have been establishing across our Outback communities physical spaces with the Zoom video conferencing technology able to host meetings and workshops virtually, reducing need to travel for these events. To date this has been used by many community groups, businesses and local governments.” said Kristine.

OutbackHubs is currently delivering a series of webinars with local accountant and businesswoman Prue Button to help small business understand what’s on offer from the Federal Governments various stimulus packages.

Parallel to this is another series of webinars, ‘Build Your Digital Footprint’ aimed at providing attendees with information on current tools to enhance their online presence.

Membership to OutbackHubs is free if you sign up between now and September to access any of the live or recorded webinars.

Medical supplies, health workers and essential equipment are amongst the long list of critical services that are potentially now out of reach for remote and regional communities in western Queensland with Regional Express (Rex) suspending all services across the State indefinitely.

Mayors from across Western Queensland have called on the Queensland Government to step up and find a solution as a matter of urgency. These services provide a lifeline for many of our communities – from larger centres including Longreach, Mount Isa or St George, remote communities such as Birdsville and vulnerable communities such as Mornington Island, Doomadgee, Burketown and Normanton.

We can’t afford complacency or to wait for lengthy discussions. We need a workable solution now that ensures our communities remain connected to essential services that can be delivered in a timely manner.

These air connections mean we have a safety net to ensure not only vital services can continue but also our workforce and industries which pump $9.5 billion into the State’s economy.
We are also home to some of Queensland’s most vulnerable people – we should not be left out in the cold to risk people’s lives.

Using costly private air freight as a substitute is beyond reach for these small regions and road freight can take days to reach many of our communities.

Our communities deserve to have the security and peace of mind of knowing that there is a link that can provide essential services during this crisis, just like our mates on the coast and in SEQ.

The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils members include the councils of the North West Regional Organisation of Councils, the Central West Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board, and South West Queensland Local Government Association.

As the Queensland Government has closed the western and southern state borders, the 21 councils of Western Queensland are stepping up to monitor and restrict access to their communities.

With the threat of Coronavirus (COVID-19) rising in Queensland, Western Queensland’s leaders have made the move to restrict travel not only to protect locals and essential service workers, but potential travellers as well.

The action stems from the very real concern of being able to adequately respond should the virus reach our regional and remote communities. Western Queensland’s reality is vast distances from major centres, a lack of resources, and a significant number of the community are at high risk such as Indigenous people and the elderly.

The impact would reach beyond Western Queensland. The State economy would also take a significant blow with the region covering almost 60% of the state’s landmass and generating $9.35 billion of the State’s Gross Product.

Mayor of Carpentaria Shire Council, Jack Bawden said:

“At present we are COVID-19 free and hope to keep it that way, if not minimise any impact. Our local councils are doing everything they can to keep our communities safe, and are asking non-essential travellers to “stay away” or “go home and be safe”. This is in-line with State and Federal government and health authority directives as we continue to work with them through our District Disaster Management Groups.”

Mayor of Barcaldine Regional Council, Rob Chandler said:

“Fresh off the successful year of Outback Tourism where visitor numbers broke the one million mark while we are still tackling the drought, this breaks our hearts. But the message from across the region is that we most definitely love you and want to see you again, but right now the health of all of us and the future of our communities and local economies is at stake.”

Mayor of Balonne Shire Council, Richard Marsh said:

“While our mates in well-resourced cities will have access to options, our reality is we have limited capacity and won’t necessarily have an easy plan B. For everybody’s sake, and in particular for those at-risk please heed the advice and we’ll be ready to see you again – better than ever!

Actions being managed by the councils in coordination with their Local Disaster Management Groups:

• Electronic road signage is in place at key locations along major routes to give ample warning – such as notifications in Cloncurry and Julia Creek advising of only essential travel permitted into northern shires.
• Shires on the State borders are also working with authorities to best manage access for essential travel including supplies and stock transport for properties on either side of the borders.
• We are continuing to look after travellers already on the road as best we can, but the message is clear no more non-essential travel to our region.

Stay up to date with information from the Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19) or check with local councils by phone, website or Facebook pages for what is happening locally.

The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils members include the councils of the North West Regional Organisation of Councils, the Central West Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board, and South West Queensland Local Government Association.

An economic development body in central west Queensland says there is no doubt the State and Federal Government need to rescue and protect the valuable outback tourism sector during COVID19 downturn.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) has released new region-specific data which shows the industry is a critical part of the outback economy.

CWQ Data Collection and Analysis report into the value of the local tourism industry has found the sector injects $527.4M into the central west region each year.

Government restrictions to reduce the spread of corona virus has seen the closure of all major attractions, cancelling of events and some communities are actively discouraging visitors and closing their communities to outsiders.

The outback tourism season runs from April until September when it generates most of its income.

The closures and travel restrictions imposed on the sector mean operations will have extremely limited capacity to generate turn over for 18 months from September 2019 until April 2021.

“This new report proves without a doubt, the tourism industry has supported our economies during years of drought, to be dealt this crippling blow now is completely devastating,” said RAPAD CEO David Arnold.

The study found the average domestic overnight visitor spent $880 per trip in Longreach and $740 in Boulia.

Tourists spent $68.8 million in the Winton economy and 306, 200 people visit Longreach per year, 80% of those are domestic visitors who stay overnight.

Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach closed its doors on Tuesday in line with Federal Government advice, standing down its casual workforce and contemplating how long it can sustain the rest of the staff.

“We pay out over a million dollars in wages every year – that’s 1.4 million spent in our local community just on wages not to mention the other local products and services we purchase,” said Tony Martin Qantas Founders Museum CEO.

“While the report’s figures are impressive, they only show visitor spend they don’t take into account the local contribution, the value of tourism to central western Queensland is more than half a billion,” he said.

“We need to keep our head above water now to meet our ongoing non-operational costs and retain a skilled workforce,” Mr Martin said.

“This couldn’t have come at a worse time; we have come out of seven months of no revenue. Unlike the coastal tourism strips, we are going into our peak season and once the pandemic is over, we are likely to be in our off season. So, we need stimulus to see us through to the next peak season,” he said.

Mr Martin says everything should be considered from grants and government loans to vouchers to visit the outback, Education Department supported school trips as well as promotion.

The Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum in Winton employs 24 staff and has also had to stand down two thirds of its workforce.

Executive Chairman David Elliott says the loss of this year’s winter tourist season will mean that it could be twelve months before the Museum is in a position to reemploy all of its staff on a full-time basis.

“The COVID19 situation will have a major impact on Winton and its surrounding regions,” he said.

RAPAD Employment Services Queensland (RESQ) delivers the Federal Governments employment programs and Centrelink agent services, CEO Chris Hamilton says they are bracing for a surge in demand.

“We expect to see a significant increase in unemployed seeking our support and assistance over the next 2 to 3 weeks as people register with Centrelink and start to think about what they will do next,” he said.

For those who are work ready, RESQ helps them to find work by linking the jobseeker with potential employers and supporting both through the first 26 weeks of employment. RESQ also offers opportunities for training and upskilling for those who require it so that when the job becomes available, the individual is ready to go. For those who feel they need to do something to safeguard their physical and mental health, RESQ conducts community-based projects that keeps the jobseeker engaged and a contributing member of their local community.

“What’s hard for us is that some of these people had been through the RESQ process before and found stable jobs so it’s sad to see them back, but they have the experience, faith and confidence that RESQ is a great way to get back to work,” Mr Hamilton said.

On the back of the Palaszczuk Government’s announcement today it would provide a $4 billion stimulus package for households and businesses, the leaders of Western Queensland have outlined a plan to keep their regions delivering for the nation as we unite to face down the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayors from 21 councils are calling on the State Government to provide an economic stimulus package as soon as possible to ensure the region can continue delivering not just for its local communities, but state-wide – from agricultural products to other essential resources for households and industry.

As the COVID-19 pandemic deepens and Governments worldwide scramble to contain the virus and hold their economies together, now is the time to take action before we fall too far behind.

The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils covers almost 60% of the state’s landmass and generates $9.35 billion of the State’s Gross Product from 1.3 per cent of Queensland’s population – 2.2 times above the Queensland average.

The region already punches well above its weight with far less State Government funding than other regions, including for vital roads infrastructure – we definitely can’t face this major crisis with business as usual.

In line with the Local Government Association of Queensland’s broader representations, the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils seeks a stimulus packages for Western Queensland consisting of:

• Increased funding for community infrastructure programs such as the successful Works for Queensland program
• Increased funding for economic infrastructure, especially targeted at boosting investment in the regional road network
• A support package to assist outback tourism operators who – coming off the back of their offseason – will miss their critical peak season and are unlikely to generate any significant turnover until winter 2021
• Investment in promoting the Outback as a tourism destination when the pandemic passes to counter the State closing its borders
• Increased funding for skills development, financial counselling and other training programs
• Increased funding for economic development initiatives related to new business models associated with the digital economy and entrepreneurship.

This affirmative action from the councils represents more than half of the State united and ready to get to work with adequate funding – to provide solutions to positively impact economies, communities and mental health.“Everywhere in the state is and will continue to be impacted by the pandemic but Western Queensland’s contribution to the State’s economy and prosperity justifies support for a stimulus package that keeps our powerhouse regions operating at full capacity,” Cr Rob Chandler, Mayor of Barcaldine Regional Council said.“Councils are well placed to respond and implement programs aimed at maintaining vital local jobs and providing additional job opportunities for workers displaced by the shut-down of businesses across our regions. Decisive action is needed by the State Government,” said Cr Jack Bawden, Mayor of Carpentaria Shire Council.

“Councils have the ability to respond quickly and have proven time and time again we can get things happening on the ground. We need to move quickly to get the funding committed, works commenced and jobs and livelihoods saved in Western Queensland and beyond,” Cr Richard Marsh, Mayor of Balonne Shire Council said.

The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils members include the councils of the North West Regional Organisation of Councils, the Central West Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board, and South West Queensland Local Government Association.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is appealing to the state government to sit down with its seven member councils and the Sustainable Australia Fund and other major players, to introduce Environmental Upgrade Agreements (EUAs) into Queensland to unlock investment in our, and other, regions.

EUAs are mechanism for accessing funding to build or upgrade infrastructure to be more environmentally sustainable and are available in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.

RAPAD Special Projects Officer Morgan Gronold says the finance provided through EUAs can make it easier and more affordable for councils to support environmentally and economically beneficial projects.

For example if a whole food café in Blackall was renting a premises and wanted to cut their operating costs and reduce their carbon footprint they could borrow the money to install solar panels from a private investment company, but rather than pay the loan off in a traditional manner the business would pay back the funds through council via a long term additional rates charge.

“It’s a way for councils support and enable small businesses to reduce their operating costs and environmental impact more cheaply.

“This benefits the whole community because that small business can use any savings generated by the infrastructure to employ more locals or invest in their own community,” he said.

Elsewhere in the country EUAs are limited to existing non-residential properties, but RAPAD wants the State Government to make Queensland the first to offer them to all properties and vacant land where regional projects can be supported including renewable energy, regenerative agriculture and climate resilience opportunities.

“They are a unique form of finance that can unlock investment to yield a public benefit good, through unlocking commercial opportunities for businesses and residents of Queensland,” he said.

RAPAD is in positive discussions with the Sustainable Australia Fund about this initiative and understands the Queensland Government is investigating the opportunity of EUAs for south east Queensland.

“We can see huge potential and opportunity for a deeper impact in rural communities and implore the State Government to invite us into the conversation, so together we can unlock green investment and capital for all Queensland communities,” he said.

Our team, like everyone’s, is adopting the experts’ advice for reducing the spread of COVID19.

We’ve activated our business continuity plan, which involves contingency for our people to work from home when required.

We have invested greatly in technology to connect virtually, and we have had the capacity to work remotely across our business units for several years now. As a result of this we don’t expect any interruptions to the services that we provide, although they may be provided differently.

Our Longreach office (RAPAD and RAPAD Skilling) landline phone numbers are answerable outside of our office so no disruption will occur should you contact these office numbers.

Our business units are equipped for Zoom web and video conferencing so we will continue to deliver our services via these platforms which many of you are already using to interact with us.

While RAPAD Skilling, in usual times, prefers to deliver face to face to our clients, trainers and assessors also deliver via Zoom video conferencing to remote students so the transition to others to this method should be seamless.

For our Rural Financial Counselling clients, face to face interviews will be avoided very soon and if you require, our team are happy to assist you prepare for Zoom video conferencing or, to speak to you via phone.

Off-site visits will inevitably cease very soon, unless very essential. Our approach will be consistent with health authority advice at all times. You can call the office to make arrangements for a Zoom meeting via Outbackhubs Virtual or telephone.

If our office does need to close, we are fully prepared to continue our service to you and minimise any disruption as outlined below;

Outbackhubs have also modified the service delivery for the Building Digital Business Footprint workshops planned across our region this next few weeks, so that your plans to take part in these learning activities can proceed. Keep an eye out for the information once we have made the arrangements

Also, over the coming months we will be offering webinars, online workshops and mentoring sessions by phone that focus on the value of innovation and the development of viable ideas in these uncertain times, plus practical suggestions to help you adapt and hopefully thrive in these changed economic and social circ*mstances.

This may be an opportunity to work on your business for post COVID-19.

These are unchartered waters for many of us, creating unprecedented demand for new solutions to business and life.

This is our new ‘business as usual’ for now and we want to stay connected with you.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board is kicking off the New Year with a busy training program to be delivered across the region by new team member Liza Cameron, Regional Skills Investment Strategy (RSIS) Project Coordinator.

Liza was welcomed to the RAPAD team at the start of the year, when she took on the part-time role.

“In its first year under the coordination of Tamara Pearce, the RSIS Project notched up some great achievements including establishing networks, providing input into state-level programs and securing Accredited Customer Service Training funding for the region,” Liza said.

“I look forward to continuing this momentum established by Tamara and working with local businesses, industry bodies and community stakeholders. This will include discussing workforce development and training needs so we can design and deliver ways to help meet specific regional needs.”

“First off the list in 2020 is Accredited Customer Service Training rolling out across the region throughout March and April. Almost every business in the region is associated with our vibrant tourism sector and this training is designed to give businesses and their employees the skills around delivering an exceptional customer service experience.”

Liza and husband Ben moved to Longreach just over a year ago to take on the kangaroo processing works. During this time she has been putting 17 years of experience in education and training to good use at Longreach High School.

“I’ve been working at the High School for the last 12 months, working with school-based apprentices and trainees. The RSIS role is a great fit. It means I am working with young people as they set out in their careers from school and then through RSIS, it’s the next stage – where people are looking to develop their skills or employers want to maximise their staff potential through training,” she said.

Liza is no stranger to the region, including family ties and starting her first job with the then Arid Zone Research Institute in Longreach.

Liza and Ben’s move has also brought another new resident to town with their son Tom, 19: “He arrived for a two week holiday and is now living the dream as a stock and station agent and loving it. It also highlights a great family connection, as my dad who was born and bred in Western Queensland, and worked as a stock and station agent as well. It’s amazing to see the passion come alive in the next generation,” Liza said.

“Coming back as an adult with different eyes has been a rewarding experience. It has not only allowed me to see the resilience after so many years of drought, but now with my work and life experience, to also see the opportunities.”

“I have a passion around providing meaningful employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas. After coming from the larger population centre of Gympie to the Central West – I can see there is a wealth of accessible opportunities for employment and training for people in this whole region. I encourage people to tap in and use the resources that we have,” she said.

A renewed push across central western Queensland to control the spread of weeds has gathered momentum with increased investment and a targeted response.

The Central West Regional Pest Partnership Group is made up of the CEOs and Rural Lands Officer’s from Barcaldine, Blackall-Tambo, Longreach, Barcoo, Diamantina, Boulia and Winton, as well as representatives from Desert Channels Qld, Agforce, Biosecurity Queensland, Transport and Main Roads.

Chair of overarching body Central West Regional Pest Management Group, Andrew Martin says the impact of pest weeds shouldn’t be underestimated.

“Pests cause damage to the environment, domestic and native wildlife, contribute to loss of native vegetation and degrade the economic potential of the region so it is vital that we work as a cohesive unit with drive and determination to stamp them out,” he said.

All RAPAD councils are behind the partnership group by investing ten thousand dollars each for its operation this financial year.

“It is critical to have buy in from all communities and other land managers to get some meaningful work completed, particularly as some parts look to transition out of the drought,” Councillor Martin said.

The group replaces the Central West Regional Pest Technical Group.

Central West Regional Pest Partnership Group Chair, Jeffrey Newton says the group is focusing on three main priorities this year:

Reducing the prevalence of Sticky Florestina along roadways between Blackall/Barcaldine/ Longreach;
Creating printed materials focused on the ‘Dirty Dozen’. The twelve pest plants high on our list of priorities.; and
The creation of a Central West Pest Weed map, which has potential to assist in weed identification, monitoring and collating of historical data for future funding.
“We are working toward a ‘zero tolerance’ stance on weeds and will be putting effort into building the community’s knowledge of pest weeds in our region,” Mr Newton said.

Outback Queensland communities have united to lobby the Queensland Government for a single spending priority ahead of the 2020 State Budget – roads.

North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NWQROC), Remote Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) and South West Queensland Local Government Association (SWQLGA) acting as the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils is appealing to the State Government to increase investment in roads to provide the most beneficial and far reaching impact on the entire region.

The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils covers almost 60% of the state’s land mass and generates $9.35 billion of the State’s Gross Product from 1.3 per cent of Queensland’s population – 2.2 times above the Queensland average.

NWQROC Chair, Councillor Jack Bawden says roads act as enabling infrastructure, which supports economic growth as well as social connection and development.

“Given our regions are vast and, in many instances, geographically isolated, roads are critical for industry, for the community and for being able to continue to contribute to Queensland’s economy,” Cr Bawden said.

The Alliance is requesting three clear actions:

1. Reverse the long-term trend of declining funding allocations to the region from the lowest in the state.

2. Build on the success of Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS)

3. Review TIDS to adjust the current 50/50 matching component to 80 / 20, similar to many National Partnership Agreements between the Australian and Queensland Governments..

SWQLGA Chair, Councillor Richard Marsh says funding allocations through the Queensland Transport Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) to the north/central/south west Department of Transport and Main Roads districts are the lowest allocations in the state at 2.7/2.5/2.0 per cent.

“At a very minimum the (QTRIP) allocations should be maintained at not less than 10% across the entire region which would be less than a 3 per cent increase,” Cr Marsh said.

RAPAD Chair, Councillor Rob Chandler says the region needs TIDS to be increased immediately and matching arrangements need to change from 50/50 to 80 per cent from State Government to 20 per cent from Local Government.

“We love TIDS, it is an excellent scheme, but we still have to find half the money for the projects to go ahead All of our councils have very constrained budgets with a low rate base and few opportunities to raise additional own source revenue. The scheme needs to be adapted to be more like many of the National Partnership Agreements between the Australian Government and State,” he said.

Case Studies of Roads that will be assisted by an increase in funding

Normanton to Burketown link

About $50M is required to seal the remaining 104 km of the Normanton to Burketown link. This road is part of the Savannah Way which joins Cairns to Broome in WA. Locally it’s the direct connection between Normanton and Burketown. Currently the unsealed sections are significant deterrent to tourists and during the wet season it closes access to locals and heavy vehicles carting livestock and freight, like groceries. The entire TIDS allocation for the whole of the North West is just under $5.5M which shows why this relatively flat road is an uphill battle under current funding arrangements.

Birdsville Developmental Road

The Birdsville Developmental Road is a state-controlled road which supports both the cattle industry and oil and gas operators to move heavy vehicles throughout the entire year. It also serves as a tourist route during winter. The road provides access to both the Strzelecki and Birdsville Tracks connecting Queensland to South Australia. This road to Birdsville becomes extremely busy twice a year when the Birdsville Races and the Big Red Bash Music Festival are held attracting thousands to the corner of the state. At this time the gravel road becomes high risk where sections decrease in width from 8m to 4m. While this road requires high capital investment, it’s improvement will deliver high economic yield.

Charleville to Bollon Road through Murweh and Paroo Shire Councils

Road widening upgrades to the Charleville to Bollon Road in Murweh and Paroo Shires are a priority for our region. Without them our heavy vehicle transport operators face increased operating costs due to time delays associated with inadequate road widths and poor pavement conditions. In effect, for this industry, time is money and a big variable in their daily operations is the quality of our regional roads network.

An economic development body representing the seven local government areas of central western Queensland will start the interim management of a former state government agricultural education campus in Longreach.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board has signed a Licence to Occupy the Longreach Pastoral College until November 2020.

RAPAD Chairman Councillor Rob Chandler says the licence allows the community to start utilising the facilities while a longer-term plan is developed in conjunction with the State Government.

“The community is hungry to get some certainty about access to the facilities, such as the accommodation so it can be utilised for planned events, this agreement allows us to breathe life back into the campus,” he said.

The Queensland Government will fund RAPAD to administer the development of an in-depth business plan which will consider all opportunities for sustainable future.

“We will to continue to work with the State Government to transition the college into a local entity in the next five years that can meet the needs of the community, employers and industry,” Councillor Chandler said.

“RAPADs approach going forward is to work in partnership with all levels of government and industry to develop a sustainable college of international standard in an agricultural region,” he said.

We pay tribute to the hard work carried out by the consultative committee over the past year, particularly Charles Burke and Alison Mobbs.

“Thanks also goes to the North West and the South West local government regions for their support which shows that 60% of Queensland is behind the future of this facility,” said Cr Chandler.

An organisation representing seven local government areas of outback Queensland is calling on the Queensland Government for more time and better consultation on potential changes to laws which could affect outback waterways and land use in the Lake Eyre Basin.

The State Government provided Remote Area Planning and Development Board with a presentation on proposed amendments to the Regional Planning Interests Act on the 18th of December 2019 requesting feedback by the 24th of January 2020.

RAPAD is calling on the State Government to provide more detail on proposed amendments and extend the feedback period.

“We feel it is more than reasonable to expect an extension of the feedback period until at least the end of February to allow proper consideration of the material presented to RAPAD Directors before Christmas,” RAPAD CEO David Arnold said.

“Mayors need to take what information they have back to their councils and community for consideration before they can provide an informed position on a process which could have a significant impact on their region,” he said.

RAPAD is also calling on the State Government to conduct a multi-stakeholder discussion, to enhance the consultation process.

“It’s our strong desire for the government to adopt a collective stakeholder process similar to the previous Wild Rivers Advisory Panel and Wild Rivers Advisory Panel under both the former Labor and Liberal governments,” he said.

“We feel we can get the best outcome for the communities and environment of the Lake Eyre Basin if local government, environmentalists, traditional owners and industry work together to provide guidance and feedback on the governments proposed changes to the act,” Mr Arnold said.

The tourism industry in central western Queensland can look forward to a stronger future under a collaboration forged between the industry and local government.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) and the Outback Queensland Tourism Association (OQTA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will cement the organisations’ commitment to sharing information and resources, supporting initiatives, open communication, and encourage collaboration to support tourism in the Central West.

“A stronger collaboration between OQTA and RAPAD will make identifying the region’s tourism needs and challenges easier, help us close any identified gaps, and better position the tourism sector in both the RAPAD region and Outback Queensland region as whole,” said OQTA Chair Andrew Martin.

With over one million visitors to Outback Queensland in 2019, the new agreement will continue to proactively shape and create a prosperous tourism industry and help enable the entire region to become a national and global tourist destination.

“This MOU is not about advantaging the central west over other outback regions, it’s about formalising and putting a framework around our relationship with RAPAD, and we will look to formally develop relationships with other local government areas in the future,” Councillor Martin said.

“The MOU is a formal commitment by both organisations to avoid duplication at all costs and to maximise both organisations’ return on investment by working cohesively and to advocating for outback Queensland tourism with a united voice,” said Rob Chandler, Chair of RAPAD.

RAPAD is focused on tourism opportunities that will bring economic and social benefit to the region.

RAPADs Central Western Queensland Tourism Data Collection and Analysis project covered by the MOU and is a great example of how the organisations can work together.

The project was established after tourism operators at a RAPAD forum in 2018 identified a lack of specific data available for them to make informed business decisions.

Stafford Strategy has been appointed to undertake the project and work has commenced.

“We are excited to be working with RAPAD and its regional stakeholders, as it will allow each Council and community to work from a far stronger evidence base through the visitor data to be gathered and modelled for the region”, said Albert Stafford, Director of Stafford Strategy.

“We look forward to being in region in early February 2020 to meet up with councils, industry and other stakeholders throughout the region, as we need and value their insights and local knowledge to fill a number of the data gaps which currently exist,” he said.

Find out about the available assistance and programs that can grow your business to its full potential. An opportunity to make a contact from all the agencies listed in the flyer below.

• Click here to register in Winton
• Click here to register in Boulia
• Click here to register in Bedourie
• Click here to register in Birdsville
• Click here to register in Windorah
• Click here to register in Jundah
• Click here to register in Stonehenge
  
• Click here to register in Longreach

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) and tourism operators in central western Queensland are embarking on a project to find out more about tourists who visit the region, so the vital industry can continue to grow.

Tourism operators in western Queensland identified at a RAPAD tourism roundtable meeting last year that a lack of specific data about visitors to the central-western Queensland was impacting the region’s ability to attract tourism investment, and quantify the value of the sector to the region in order to support continued growth.

RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler says the available information is not specific enough to be useful.

“Most of the usual industry publications like the Tourism Regional Profile, released by Tourism Research Australia (TRA), is based on Outback Queensland which is far larger than Central West Queensland.

“The only Local Government profile issued by TRA is for Longreach, none of the other 6 councils that make up RAPAD are mentioned,” he said.

RAPAD is now calling for tenders to undertake the work to provide this much-needed tourism information.

“Without precise data, it makes it very difficult for local tourism operators to make informed decisions and help RAPAD and councils better attract investment.

“If you are a tourism operator on the Gold Coast or in Sydney this detailed information would be at your fingertips and would be a large part of how you make decisions,” Councillor Chandler said.

RAPAD has identified tourism as a key enabler for the region’s economic development. Access to specific data will greatly empower the seven Central Western Queensland local governments through improving decision making and resource allocation.

It will also help Central West Queensland tourism businesses make decisions about their tourism offer, expanding into other products, location of new investments and expanding their workforce.

A greater understanding of the demands of the tourists, what products and experiences they are most likely to be interested in, and the estimated demand in a particular period, will mean the local industry can better plan and develop products that are better suited.

The successful tenderer will be confirmed in August with the results due early next year.

The erection of more than seven hundred kilometres of fencing is about to start in central-western Queensland with more exclusion fencing clusters finalised.

Seven groups of properties, that will work together to build dog proof borders to protect their sheep, have been selected for government funding through round three of RAPADs Queensland Feral Pest Initiative.

The seven successful clusters from the Longreach, Winton, Barcaldine and Barcoo shire regions are made up of 17 producers:

• Will fence 733 km and protect 319,637 ha from wild dogs;Will see a $5.93m private contribution or a 303% ROI for government;
• Will see sheep numbers grow from 19,240 to an expected 168,300, an expected increase of 149,060;
• Will generate an expected $2.02m in direct shearing, crutching and lamb marking wages per annum from the new expected total sheep numbers.
• The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) has signed off on the clusters which were selected by an independent technical committee.

This round of fencing involves 17 sheep producers and wool growers working together in the

Archeron, Jedburgh, Eldwick, Luckham, Bristol, Western River and Salt Creek clusters, with Salt Creek to be part-funded.

Jeff Lloyd’s property “Jedburgh” started producing wool in 1926 and for a time was the largest private wool grower in Queensland running 45 000 sheep.

In 2006 all remaining sheep on the property which had survived relentless dog attacks were sold and replaced with cattle.

Mr Lloyd is eagerly looking forward to the return of sheep to his property and reclaiming the title.

“This funding will mean us getting back into sheep and once again becoming one of the largest wool growers in Queensland. The fence will give us back the option of running small stock and return the clusters highest productivity Mitchell grass downs country back into full sheep production,” Mr Lloyd said.

Near Winton, the Western River Cluster will protect some of the few properties in the district that still have sheep including Jodie Axford’s property.

“It has been harder and harder to hang on. This fence will mean we’ll now be able to lamb out in the best paddocks with the most cover without the risk of predation and grow our breeder numbers once again,” she said.

RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler understands there will be some disappointed unsuccessful applicants, but he’s optimistic there will be options for them.

“We have been oversubscribed in every round we have held. For those who missed out please know RAPAD is committed to lobbying the government to continue the funding for a fourth round for those that missed out, and for others who may wish to fence,” Councillor Chandler said.

“As well as the QFPI funding the Longreach and Barcaldine Regional, and the Winton and Barcoo Shire Councils have secured additional money for cluster fencing which will be dispersed soon,” he said.

For more information about the real impact of the cluster fencing initiative visit www.notjustafence.org

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

Outback leaders are in Brisbane to launch the next stage of their plan to make the region a centre for drone technologies ahead of hosting Australia’s only remote drone event – Outback Aerodrone Symposium 21-23 September in Barcaldine.

Representing the seven councils of Central West Queensland, the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) has been quietly starting a drone revolution, focussed on delivering the benefits of the growing technology to its communities.

Chair of RAPAD and Mayor of Barcaldine Regional Council, Rob Chandler said independent reports and ongoing discussionswith industry leaders highlighted the region’s prime position to take advantage of drone technologies and host drone testing.

“From agriculture, to disaster recovery, to infrastructure management, drones have amazing potential to support localcommunities, showcase local skills and capacity, and attract business and visitors to the region,” Cr Chandler said.

“We have leaders from the industry telling us what they are looking for in terms of testing facilities and Central WestQueensland hits the mark – global companies including Insitu Pacific and IDS have already conducted testing in-region.

“As we continue to face heart-breaking drought, our drone ambitions aren’t a flash in the pan, we have a strategy shaped byexpert knowledge that opens the door to real opportunities to boost our local economies as well as spirit,” he said.

“We’re excited to be bringing our Symposium back to Barcaldine this year following the success of our inaugural event in 2018which drew attendees from across the country as well as a business delegation from Japan – breaking new ground andmaking our vision to be recognised internationally a reality.”

“We’ve continued the momentum, working with Trade & Investment Queensland to take a local delegation to Japan earlierthis year, meeting with industry, education and government to discuss opportunities including hosting drone events,” he said.

“We thank our local member for Gregory, Lachlan Millar MP for hosting this launch event at Parliament House. This supportreinforces the collective effort of RAPAD in leading the way with these technologies that can deliver many benefits to localregional economies, skills capacity and jobs.

“If drones are your business, your company’s next frontier or your hobby, I encourage you book a trip to Outback Queenslandand connect with great opportunities, likeminded people and take in a top event complete with legendary hospitality.

RAPAD CEO David Arnold said: “This is an exciting time for our region, as we continue to work with major players in theindustry, including Australia’s very own World of Drones Congress, to maximise our impact. Another exciting developmentthis year will see our Outback Aerodrone Symposium kick off a ‘Queensland Drone Week’ that will culminate in the World ofDrones Congress in Brisbane.

“Our region is well and truly open for business, and we will continue to grow our industry partner network, and work with government and corporate partners to secure sustainable investment for the communities of Central West Queensland.”

Two-point nine million dollars of Federal Government funding is about to be deposited into the bank accounts of four local governments in central western Queensland to be spent on wild dog exclusion fencing, which will increase economic growth in the region.

The Longreach, Barcaldine, Winton and Barcoo councils will receive between $900,000 and $400,000 which was announced by Member for Maranoa and then Agriculture Minister David Littleproud in July last year.

The commitment comes off the back of the long-running and well-documented success of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board’s highly popular Queensland Feral Pest Initiative program which has seen graziers on 121 properties join together to protect 1.59 million hectares from wild dogs.

“The success of RAPAD’s program has been measured every step of the way, we have proven it has delivered economic growth, jobs, a sense of control over grazing operations and lives, as well as providing benefits which can’t be recorded in a spreadsheet, like sleeping better at night, renewed optimism and confidence in the future”, said RAPAD Chairman Cr Rob Chandler.

For a fully interactive report on the program, that highlights its successes such as the creation of new jobs and a $4M injection of direct wages, visit notjustafence.org

This additional funding will play a significant role in achieving RAPAD’s goal to grow the area’s total flock too in excess of one million sheep.

“Because we know with more sheep come more jobs, more services, more kids in schools and therefore more teachers to teach them, more opportunities and more prosperity for all the residents in our community regardless of whether they live on the land or in town,” Councillor Chandler said.

Since the seriousness of the region’s wild dog problem was identified, RAPAD has led the way by;

• delivering a practical three-round fencing solution,
• developing robust economic and agribusiness arguments ranging from the single producer profitability level to the whole community level which charts growth and sustainability
• convincing all tiers of government of the value in investment
• and advocating on behalf of producers and local governments

Cluster fencing has been so successful, RAPAD’s most recent funding round was once again oversubscribed and this additional funding provides an avenue for those who missed out an option to potentially explore.

“We would like to formally invite the new Federal Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie to the region to see first-hand the success of the programs and so we can continue to work together on this community-building initiative,” said Councillor Chandler.

Grants of up to $20,000 are available through the Central West Empowering Our Community Small Grants Program for events and organisations that support people to connect, share experiences, enhance individual and community wellbeing and resilience, and to build strength and capacity for the future.

Existing organisations, community groups and individuals have until the 8th of July to apply for a grant of between 3 and 20 thousand dollars to go toward bringing communities together for activities linked to lifestyle, business, interest, culture and family orientated events.

Successful applicants will be from the RAPAD region (Blackall Tambo, Barcaldine, Longreach, Winton, Boulia, Diamantina or Barcoo council areas), with their community events, on farm events or workshops taking place in the RAPAD region and acquitted by the end of the 2019 – 2020 financial year.

RAPAD will accept and review applications, for more information and to apply visit the RAPAD website or follow this link: Download

The Central West Empowering Our Communities Small Grants Program is supported by funding from Western Queensland PHN through the Australian Government’s PHN Program.

On behalf of the community, RAPAD CEO David Arnold thanks the Western Queensland Primary Health Network and its CEO Stuart Gordon for channelling the funding into the community via these grants.

“We know from the highly successful State Government funded Community Drought Support program, which ceased earlier this year, that community focused events make a real difference in both social and economic terms to communities,” said David Arnold.

The full details on the impact of the Community Drought Support program can be found here: Download

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board will work with renowned economist and clean energy leader Ross Garnaut AO in Longreach this week to start work on targeting renewable energy projects which will deliver jobs and benefits across the region.

Professor Ross Garnaut will be attending the Western Queensland Local Government Conference and touring the region this week.

Longreach Regional Council Mayor and RAPAD Board Director Ed Warren says because the region has plenty of sunshine and space, the central west has a competitive advantage in terms of solar energy generation.

“We haven’t cashed in on that advantage, instead we have large scale solar farms which are not creating long term jobs, not lowering our local electricity prices, not improving our supply or attracting power hungry industries,” said Councillor Warren

RAPAD member councils are focussing on how they can take practical steps to solve local issues and maximise local opportunities.

“We welcome large scale solar farms, but we want to work with Professor Garnaut and others to develop a plan that will see renewable energy grow 10 new on-going jobs over the next 12 to 24 months,” he said.

“Sitting down with Professor Garnaut in Longreach is the next step on this path where we start to focus on evaluating and prioritising specific local issues and opportunities, so we can maximise the economic and social benefits for our communities” Cr Warren said.

RAPAD’s Senior Regional Development Officer Morgan Gronold is currently identifying a small group of industry experts to assist Professor Garnaut with this process. Those chosen will have energy knowledge, entrepreneurial spirit, appreciation for urgency, and have a reputation for making things happen. The initial meeting of this group is planned for May 2019.

“These discussions and the information we develop as part of this process puts us in a better position to engage with the Queensland Government and private business to help us deliver in our region, for our region. Through each of these projects we are keeping an eye on the future and aiming to ensure we are a more diversified region better able to withstand whatever the future holds,” Mr Gronold said.

The RAPAD renewable energy vision is for our region to generate Queensland’s electricity needs from renewable energy, in turn facilitating transformative economic and social benefit for our region, while becoming an energy superpower of the low carbon world.

The University of Queensland, the Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland (RFCSNQ) and the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) have joined forces to undertake research which will influence policy and benefit businesses in central western Queensland.

Headed up by Dr Thea Voogt the three year pilot study into business structures and taxation is not just about the law and figures.

“This project is about families. And it’s about the best things I’ve experienced about central western Queensland, which is the connection between people and the land and the connection between farms and towns and how one can’t exist without the other. It’s about 10 thousand people who may live in a remote region, but whose voices should be heard loudly,” she said.

The pilot study is being carried out in seven local government areas of Central West Queensland Barcaldine, Longreach and Blackall-Tambo regional councils and the Barcoo, Winton, Boulia, Diamantina shire councils.

The project will look at cash flow optimisation and innovative ways to structure small businesses and family enterprises in the region to ensure that primary producers and town businesses can not only survive but thrive in these remote areas

“In Australia, there are four main business structures: sole trader, partnership, company, and trust,” she said.

“These different structures impact each business in unique ways, influences cash flow or make it difficult to restructure or change ownership without significant cost and a lot of red tape.”

Dr Voogt’s study has begun with data collection – working with primary producers, small business owners and community leaders in the area. The project will provide comprehensive evidence about business structures and the impact of income tax law changes on cash flow, set against the unique features of the RAPAD region.

The project will also showcase best-practice ways for primary producers and small businesses to maximise cash flow, and inform policy recommendations for government.

The ultimate goal is to present strong evidence-based research to make it easier to operate farm businesses and small businesses in remote and rural regions, ensuring people stay in the regions and increasing population growth.

“Supporting and retaining farming families on the land means that we’ve got generations there that understand the flow of rivers and the ebb and flow of drought, and how to get the most from the region,” Dr Voogt said.

“But 10,000 people can’t sway politicians, 10,000 people can’t drive policy. This is where the pilot study plays an important role in presenting evidence and explaining the interaction between farm and town businesses using data and case studies to strengthen the voice of communities in Central West Queensland.”

Outcomes from the study can also be applied to help small businesses and family firms across Australia – there’s a lot to be learned from the seven shires.

“This was the law research project that I felt could make the greatest difference to the RAPAD region and to the excellent work of rural financial counsellors who provide free business support to farmers.”

Dr Voogt will travel to the seven shires regularly to collect data, meet with business owners and build case studies.

She wants to hear from anyone interested in being part of the study, and will draw on her experience as a chartered accountant, and her expertise as a taxation and commercial law academic to listen to and to study small businesses in the region.

“I think I am lucky that I’m able to use practical business experience and skills from my previous job outside academia, to take a pragmatic approach to the impact of the law on businesses,” Dr Voogt said.

“I’m very grateful to the RAPAD Board and the community for their support and to business leaders for talking with me, letting me know how I should shape the project to make a meaningful contribution.”

“The voice of this 10,000 must be heard and the way that the Law School can help is through evidence.”

“By myself, I can’t do anything, but with the help from the community, I can make a contribution.”

If you are interested in being part of the study contact Thea Voogt by email t.voogt@law.uq.edu.au or call RFCSNQ Media manager Nicole Bond on 0417 199 369

The demand for cluster fencing in Central Western Queensland continues to outstrip State Government funding, with the Remote Area Planning and Development Board’s round three applications oversubscribed by almost $1.5m.

RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler is pleased with the interest but understands there will be some left disappointed.

“We were hopeful the rain earlier this year would encourage people to commit to building a fence, so it’s great to see plenty wanting to get in behind wire. It’s just a shame some have to miss out,” said Councillor Chandler.

RAPAD cluster fencing applications saw:

• 17 clusters of 45 properties applying to fence 1,216 km and protect 454 590 ha from wild dogs;
• Applicants requested $3.3m from Government matched by $10.7m in private investment;
• Expected sheep numbers growth of 290 584;
• By shire: BTC 1; Barcoo 2; Winton 2; LRC 5; BRC 7; so
• As such this round has been oversubscribed by 500km;
• The applications once again tell the story of the impact of wild dogs on western communities and their flocks. For a full picture go to www.notjustafence.org

“People who have run more than 20 thousand sheep for decades are back to having a hatful if they are lucky,” Councillor Chandler said.

“A landholder south west of Barcaldine has reported killing 160 wild dogs since January, which is directly linked to lambing rates in decline from 80% down to just 5%,” he said.

“Once the sheep go it means less kids in our schools, less nurses in our hospitals and less people in the region. This is about more than a fence, it’s about creating jobs in the region, empowering people and giving them back control of their time, finances and wellbeing,” he said.

Councillor Chandler says because the interest in being part of the project remains high, RAPAD is committed to lobbying the government to continue the funding for a fourth round.

“People want to fence that’s why we have been oversubscribed in every round we have held. People are itching to get back into the wool job, but it’s risky without a fence,” he said.

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

A delegation from Central West Queensland will put the region’s Outback Aerodrone Symposium and drone testing capabilities in the spotlight at the Japan Drones Conference and Expo in Tokyo next week.

The delegation includes Barcaldine Regional Council Deputy CEO, Brett Walsh, and the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) Operations and Innovation Manager, Kristine Arnold, with support from Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ). The delegation’s agenda from 10-15 March includes hosting a display at the Japan Drone event as well as a full schedule of meetings in Osaka and Tokyo.

The agenda includes discussions with one of Japan’s largest machinery manufacturers, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, in addition to meetings with representatives from government ministries, Chiba University and key players in drone industry development.

RAPAD Chair Cr Rob Chandler said the delegation was another important step for the region to continue to develop its capabilities as a drone Centre of Excellence and strengthen ties with world-leading companies.

“Our inaugural Outback Aerodrone event last year drew attendees from across the country as well as a delegation from Japan. This really opened our eyes to the amazing potential for local business, communities, education and more,” he said.

“We’re pleased to be hosting the Symposium in Barcaldine again this year from 21 – 23 September. Brett and Kristine will be leading the charge to welcome even more international companies and enthusiasts from amongst the thousands of delegates at Japan Drones.

“Working with TIQ and delivering the Outback Aerodrone Symposium has opened doors to great opportunities for our region,” Cr Chandler said.

“During their visit the Japanese delegates identified opportunities for investment and application in Japan, including our wide-open spaces, agricultural industry and responding to disasters.

“We were able to continue discussions with two of the Japanese companies and now look forward to enhancing these connections and expanding our impact into this market,” Cr Chandler said.

Brett and Kristine will be taking translated materials that invite delegates to Outback Aerodrone Symposium and also showcase the region as an ideal location for drone testing and development opportunities.

Kristine Arnold said: “We will be promoting our beautiful vast blue skies of Central Western Queensland, and our capacity to host drone events, especially to those requiring beyond visual line of sight (BVLoS) testing.”

“This is an exciting time for our region, as we continue to work with major players in the industry, including Australia’s very own World of Drones Congress, to maximise our impact.

“Another exciting development this year will see our Outback Aerodrone Symposium kick off a “Queensland Drone Week” that will culminate in the World of Drones Congress in Brisbane.

“We will be able to further leverage this major event in Brisbane, and again connect with delegates’ schedules as we did with the Japanese delegation last year.

Outback Aerodrone Symposium 2019 is supported by the Queensland Government through Advance Queensland, and the Barcaldine Regional Council. Japan Drones Conference and Expo 2019 13 – 15 March

For more information is available online at www.outbackaerodrone.com.au.

Graziers in central western Queensland wanting to access financial assistance to build cluster fences around their properties can now apply for a share of $2.25m in funding from the Queensland and Australian Governments.

Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is the successful tenderer for the region and is calling for applications to build strategic cluster fences from eligible groups of landholders in the local government areas of Barcaldine, Longreach, Blackall-Tambo, Winton, and Barcoo.

RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler says the central west remains an area with high wild dog density and impact.

“Sheep and wool producers who got in early and formed a cluster under funding rounds one and two have not looked back, so I would urge anyone still under siege from dogs to talk to their neighbours and consider putting in an application,” he said.

To be eligible for the funding, applications must meet the following:

• Clusters must consist of at least two owners and two properties
• A maximum of $2700 / km GST exclusive is available to successful clusters
• Any cluster who provided an EOI to RAPAD in 2016 must complete this application to be considered for funding. EOIs provided in 2016 were used to demonstrate a need to Government and enabled the securing of this funding only
• Applications close 5:30pm Friday 26th April 2019. Application form on RAPAD website.

“Successful applicants from rounds one and two have reported results that been nothing short of astounding” he said.

“Apart from increasing lambing rates by as much as 80%, members of successful clusters also reported as the fences were being constructed, they felt they were once again gaining financial and environmental control of their properties and operations,” Councillor Chandler said.

To find out more about the results experienced under round two funding go to www.notjustafence.org

The project’s long-term goal is to be the catalyst for achieving significant improvement in profitability of regional businesses (both rural and non-rural) through the demonstration of the economic, social and environmental benefit of cluster fencing.

Morgan Gronold, Senior Regional Development Manager will once again be managing the project and is available to come and speak to potential clusters to help them with their applications, contact Morgan on 0448739759 or mgronold@rapad.com.au

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

Click here to download the application form

A new report into social and economic impacts of drought funding shows investment into resilience boosting activities is money extremely well spent.

The economic development organisation representing the seven local government areas of central west Queensland (RAPAD) commissioned a review of the Queensland Government funded Community Drought Support Package.

“We knew anecdotally that this program’s impact reverberated throughout all our communities and their economies. This report confirms the package wasof immense benefit to the region, socially and economically,” RAPAD CEO David Arnold said.

The package was introduced to improve the resilience of drought-affected Queenslanders by funding community events and initiatives that support local economies and help build and retain community resilience in the face of extreme hardship.

Just over half a million dollars ($525,000) was invested in 114 events.

Independent reviewer and economist with Hall Chadwick QLD, Andrew Perkins says every dollar spent by the Palaszczuk government was magnified in value by more than 130% through the economy.

“For every dollar of funding there is a direct benefit of $1.31 to the region in the form of local purchasing, paid local labour and a surplus either to be retained or donated to a selected charity,” Mr Perkins said.

The report also found, every dollar of community drought support funding was matched with $1.07 worth of unpaid community volunteer labour.

Beyond the highly successful impact on local economies, the support package played a monumental role in generating and ensuring continuity of social interaction.

Gerry Roberts of GR Consulting was involved with the review and interviewed people about the impact of the funding program.

The clear message he heard was the funding meant regular community events, which are often a key economic as well as social event, could continue to be held under conditions when businesses and people were facing financial hardship and otherwise would have had to be cancelled.

“The funding meant the show could go on, the race day was held, entry to the rodeo was free so the community could afford to gather and talk rather than isolate themselves because they had no income,” Dr Roberts said.

“People facing the hardship of drought could talk about it with each other and in doing so support each other, and that is how communities develop more care towards each other which translates to better resilience,” he said.

Apart from rain, contemporary grass roots research has found the best salve for communities suffering through drought is for the local economies to be supported and opportunities for social interaction retained.

The Beyond the Dust report delivered by the Western Queensland Drought Appeal into the Impact of Drought in the Central West on Town Businesses provided six policy recommendations including;

supporting community networks by “supporting events that foster community networks and build social resilience”,
developing “diverse and innovative economies by encouraging government and charity groups to invest locally”.
“The Community Drought Support Package has delivered in economic terms and has boosted the health and well-being of the Central West community. As the region enters its sixth year of drought the resilience of the community and economy couldn’t be more important,” Mr Arnold said.

Disappointingly RAPAD understands there is no intention by the State Government to continue the package, despite the clear benefit identified in the report.

The seven councils of central western Queensland are calling on the state government to start work on its commitment to help rural, regional and remote Queenslanders who use regulated transport routes arrive at the best possible solutions for their remote air services.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) gave an undertaking at a forum organised by the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) in July last year to start work to form a stakeholder group that would have input and provide guidance into the next tender process for the regulated air transport routes across regional and remote Queensland.

Regulated transport routes are select routes servicing regional and remote communities, which are subsidised by the state government and contracted out for a fixed period to select airline operators through a tender process

Eight months ago, tourism, health, community and industry representatives gathered in Brisbane to develop a position on air services because of community concern that the current contracts were failing to deliver in some cases, a suitable but more particularly an affordable air service.

“TMR were part of that forum, and at the time they committed to work together. Unfortunately, the terms of reference for a proposed working group model has been with the Minister’s office for at least six months. Stakeholders are now asking why is it taking so long to review and approve the proposed consultation and stakeholder working group model?” Outback Regional Roads and Transport Group Chair Councillor Bruce Scott said.

The stakeholder working group was to represent all outback Queensland, and was to be established in part, to consider the outcomes and recommendations from the Australian Government’s Senate Inquiry into the Operation, Regulation and Funding of Air Routes Service Delivery to Rural, Regional and Remote Communities.

The senate inquiry’s reporting has been delayed three times and is now due to report at the end of June 2019.

“An 18-month delay in the federal sphere shouldn’t stop the Queensland Government from working with outback communities who need better functioning, cost effective, appropriate and accessible transport routes now,” Councillor Scott said.

“A fast, safe, affordable connection is vital, so outback people can access services that are just not available locally. Services like specialist health care, grow and develop business or professional skills, catch up with families and friends and engage with leisure and culture outside the region are extremely important to these communities,” he said.

“It’s not just locals who want to travel that are affected, it’s limiting our tourism industry’s potential, accessing professional support, additional health services, educational opportunity and social inclusion” Councillor Scott said.

The contracts on seven regulated air routes are due to expire on the 31 December 2019.

“Outback Queensland needs the Queensland Government to work with the community to ensure tax payers dollars are responsibly spent, and the services offered are affordable, and are what is truly needed to bridge the divide associated with families and individuals living and working in regional and remote communities,” he said.

“I respectfully ask the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Hon Mark Bailey to let’s make a start today to get this stakeholder group together, as there is no reason the state government should wait any longer to broker the best possible outcome for the travel needs for regional and remote communities – using the knowledge and experience that exists across this vast region of Queensland ,” Councillor Scott said.

An economic development organisation representing a large part of outback Queensland is calling on anyone with a need for skilled employees to get involved with the Central West Queensland Skills Investment Project.

The Remote Area Planning and Development board (RAPAD) represents the seven local government areas of the central west and is delivering a Regional Skills Investment Strategy (RSIS) project in the area, thanks to funding from the Queensland Government.

Three hundred and fifty thousand dollars will be invested over two years to work with our region’s employers to identify local training gaps or issues, forecast shortfalls in the agriculture, tourism/hospitality and community services sectors. The project aims to put solutions in place to make sure the region has access to the training to produce skilled workers now and into the future.

CEO of RAPAD David Arnold says the level of community and industry input into this project will determine its success.

“If you want to be able to easily hire qualified, professional shearers, customer service staff or carers, for example, you need to put your local knowledge and needs forward so the project will result in a local solution for local industry,” Mr Arnold said.

In October 2018 Tamara Pearce was appointed as the RSIS Project Co-ordinator for the Central West.

Since her appointment her priority has been to meet with the region’s stakeholders in the agriculture (sheep and wool), tourism/hospitality and community services sectors.

“Local businesses and people on the ground are best placed to identify what training and skills are needed right now and what new roles employers will want to fill in the future,” she said.

She has already visited every local government area and is willing to travel to meet with stakeholders.

Ms Pearce says she wants to help the community access the funding and programs that are available now.

“There is funding available across the state that individuals can access for vocational education and training, this project aims to connect employers and their employees to the funding in key regional industries, so everyone can benefit,” she said.

“For employers of identified industries, the project could provide heavily subsidised training to help grow or diversify their business”.

The Regional Skills Investment Strategy is a $9 million initiative funded over four years that supports the Queensland Government to partner with communities to ensure a supply of skilled local people to meet demand for current and emerging jobs in regional communities.

To talk with Tamara Pearce about your needs contact her on 0412 880 746 or email tpearce@rapad.com.au. You can also become involved by filling out this survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CWQSkills

In what’s believed to be an industry first, the Remote Area Development Board has today launched an innovative online tool to show the community the success of its cluster fencing initiative.

RAPAD has launched www.notjustafence.org a responsive website which provides the results of round two of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative in the Central West.

It converts dry figures into animated graphs and tells the story of how the project is impacting on people’s lives in meaningful ways.

Morgan Gronold, Senior Regional Development Manager with RAPAD has been driving the project and explains it’s more than a website.

“All the results from round two of the funding have been collated and fed into live graphs and graphics which will be kept up to date with information from future rounds, so whenever someone logs on, they are getting the most up to date information on the project,” he said.

“But it’s more than bland graphs and numbers, we have included the stories of people who have been part of the project so the benefits that can’t be put into a graph can also be understood,” Mr Gronold said.

To develop the tool RAPAD partnered with economist Andrew Perkins from Hall Chadwick and online specialist Tim Smith of Evidently So to develop the tool.

RAPAD expects more organisations which are required to report project outcomes or provide monitoring and evaluation will follow its lead in this innovative technique.

“People are less and less inclined to read reports, this website delivers the key information in an engaging experience straight to a laptop or smart phone, it’s the way of the future,” Mr Gronold said.

The website can be found atwww.notjustafence.org

The future of the Central West requires investment and leadership in education beyond just the agriculture sector

“It is disheartening and disappointing to see the closure of Longreach Pastoral College, which in its prime was a successful rural educational facility. But we must get to work on securing the right combination of interested parties to work together to deliver an educational service that meets the needs of our community and supports the region to diversify economically and grow,” – Rob Chandler, RAPAD Chair.

The regional organisation of councils in central western Queensland (RAPAD) says the future prosperity of the area will be greatly dependent the next steps taken in determining the future of the Longreach Pastoral College.

The seven mayors of the Central West have met to consider the Coaldrake Report into the future of vocational education, training and skilling in Central Western Queensland, which included recommendations for the Remote Area Planning and Development board to take a leadership role.

RAPAD Chair, Rob Chandler says the announcement of the Longreach Pastoral College’s closure at the end of 2019 was swift and hard however the need now is for the region to come together and turn this situation into an opportunity.

“This is their report, they’ve made the hard call, now work with us to reinvigorate VET and skilling in the region, across all sectors, not just agriculture,” Councillor Chandler said.

“We need the VET sector to support what we have right now – tourism, agriculture, community services, civil and construction, aged care – then watch it grow and expand.

“But limiting the potential of the LPC to traditional industries misses a great opportunity to economically diversify the area and boost the regions resilience,” he said.

RAPAD has already engaged the international drone community and is working with renewable energy leaders; we know opportunities for training in new technologies and innovation across local government, agriculture and tourism all exist here.

RAPAD is ready, willing and able to step in and work proactively with state government to be part of the solution immediately, and the Chairman will be seeking immediate meetings with the Premier and Ministers.

We are calling on the government to outline the process going forward and disclose what discussions have been held

“We need a long-term commitment that this will be a genuine success focused transition not a 12 month hand-over and then a hand-washing,” Councillor Chandler said.

Cr Chandler said there were a lot of great ideas now coming forward, some of which have laid dormant for many years such as partnering with a University/s, a Rangelands Institute, international students for LSHS, agri-innovation.

“Our counterparts at Desert Channels Queensland have vast experience in natural resource management and pest animal and weed control. We are at the tip of an iceberg of training and skilling opportunities, but the Government needs to come with us,” Councillor Chandler said.

RAPAD became a Registered Training Organisation about 10 years ago to help fill a gap in the VET sector in the region to support the economic resilience of the region.

“At that time neither the LPC or TAFE system expressed an interest in offering VET courses outside of their existing scope, or in the region, respectively,” RAPAD CEO David Arnold said.

“Many of the courses nominated as areas of opportunity in the Coaldrake report such as tourism, hospitality, civil construction, community services, business are already being delivered locally by us, and the opportunity exists to expand on these into new areas”, said Mr Arnold.

“We have an excellent track record in the VET area and have been at the start of key projects like the Big Red Truck, an Education Queensland led Australian College of Tourism concept which was highlighted in the report,” he said.

Individuals, families, farms and communities in the Central Western Qld drought-affected regions can access a range of national, state and local drought support services.

People are doing it tough, and some are reluctant to ask for help because they think other people are worse off than them, but there is plenty of support to go around.

The Australian Government provides a comprehensive range of support programs and initiatives to help people manage basic needs during drought, including financial assistance, support for your children’s education and wellbeing services.

Farm Household Allowance (FHA) provides up to four cumulative years of support to eligible farming families experiencing financial hardship. The allowance, which is paid fortnightly is designed to help people meet basic household needs, giving them breathing space to implement plans to become financially self-sufficient so they are better placed to sustain their farming businesses.

An FHA supplement lump-sum payment of up to $3600 for single farmers and $6000 for farming couples is available to eligible farmers receiving FHA between
2 December 2018 and 1 June 2019.

Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland at www.rfcsnq.com.au (and all RFC services nationally) can help you apply for FHA and develop an action plan to get on top of your finances.

Nationally, call your local Rural Financial Counsellor on 1800 686 175 to book an appointment or in North Qld call any of our RFCs closest to you. Information can be found at www.rfcsnq.com.au

If in small business in the Central Western Qld region contact our small business financial counsellor Peter Whip on 0428581512 or visit https://www.rfcsnq.com.au/about/small-business-and-individuals-financial-counsellor/ .

Eligible parents and carers in rural and remote areas can access funding and support for education and childcare to take some of the pressure off. The Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme offers a boarding allowance or distance education support and second home allowance, depending on your circ*mstances.

There’s also support for families with younger children. The In Home Care program helps parents in rural and remote areas to balance their working responsibilities with flexible care options.

The Australian Taxation Office has a range of support options for individuals and businesses experiencing drought, including payment plans, more time to lodge and pay tax bills and penalty waivers. Call the ATO on 1800 806 218 for tailored assistance.

Many banks are offering assistance to their drought-affected customers, including deferral of loan payments, waiving of fees and loan restructuring. Contact your bank to seek advice and to discuss options.

The people of regional Australia are resilient, but dealing with drought is tough and it can take its toll on everyone’s health and wellbeing.

People feeling the pressure need to reach out and talk to someone. Your GP can connect you to a range of services, including telehealth services that allow you to talk to trained professionals via Skype from the privacy of your home. There are other great online and phone services too, like Head to Health and Lifeline.

People in crisis can call Lifeline’s 24 hour support line on 13 11 14.

For more information and to apply for Australian Government drought assistance visit http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought or call 1800 900 090.

Additional support is available from state and territory governments.

NSW: www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au
QLD: https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/environment/drought/assistance-programs
VIC: http://agriculture.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farm-management/drought
SA: http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/grants_and_assistance
WA: https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/climate-land-water/climate-weather/drought-and-dry-seasons
TAS: https://dpipwe.tas.gov.au/agriculture/government-and-community-programs/managing-seasonal-conditions/support-for-farming-businesses-and-families
NT: https://securent.nt.gov.au/prepare-for-an-emergency/droughts
ACT: http://www.environment.act.gov.au/act-nrm/act-farmers-support-package
Charities and community organisations are also providing much needed support. Contact a local charity representative about accessing vouchers for food and basic living needs, or other support.

Country Women’s Association: https://www.cwaa.org.au/advocacy-policy/donations-assistance
Salvation Army: Call 02 8757 8088 or visit https://salvos.org.au/about-us/news-and-stories/disasters-other-appeals/2018-droughts/access-drought-assistance/
Rotary Australia: http://rawcs.org.au/
Lions: Call 0459 444 111 or visit http://www.needforfeed.org/apply-for-assistance.html
St Vincent de Paul: https://www.vinnies.org.au/findhelp
Red Cross: www.redcross.org.au/drought
Foodbank: Call 02 9887 4144 or visit https://www.foodbank.org.au/

Realising the Big Vision

We, the Women at the Well, are currently working with RAPAD, to develop a strategy that looks beyond drought, and transforms the economic outlook of the Central West Queensland region – and we are seeking your help to ensure this approach is reflective of the community’s aspiration.

The seven council shires Barcaldine, Barcoo, Blackall-Tambo, Boulia, Diamantina, Longreach and Winton form the RAPAD region of Central West Queensland. Throughout 2017, a range of natural assets and opportunities were identified across the region, that could underpin an economic transformation of the whole region – but RAPAD remained uncertain of the best path to realise this ambition. During 2018, on behalf of RAPAD, we have developed an approach that is based on empowering the community, by enhancing its self-reliance to foster regional resilience. Our strategy focuses on linking the values and aspirations of the community (identified in 2017) with the natural assets of the region, around energy, water, digital economy, food production, manufacturing, services and international markets. The approach is a bold and challenging departure from centralised government models of service, and instead is focused on servicing the needs of the community first, with expansion into multiple international markets.

From 5 November to 15 November 2018, the Women at the Well will be in the RAPAD region, seeking the views of the community to this audacious strategy. Through a range of targeted workshops, community forums and 1-1 interviews, we are hoping to hear from the community what is missing from the approach, how it could be improved – but most critically, is this the type of approach they want for their local council shire and broader regional community?

Thank you for your anticipated help in reaching the broader Central West Queensland Community, where every voice matters to this project.

Women at the Well

(Global Futuremakers, Regional Economic Solutions, The Circular Experiment)

Almost a quarter of Queensland is challenging the Prime Minister to do something meaningful to better equip communities, farmers and businesses in inland Australia to not just survive, but thrive through drought.

All seven councils of the RAPAD region (21% of QLD) have been fully drought declared since 2014; the communities within the region are currently experiencing the worst drought and economic decline, in its history.

“In my town, shire, and the greater Central Western Qld region, this forum needs to provide support for:

• Increased agricultural productivity and returns,
• Increased community and business economic diversification
• Increased individual and community mental and physical well being
• A reversal of population decline.”

Anything less is a failure”, RAPAD Chairman and Barcaldine Regional Council Mayor Rob Chandler said.

“Just through this dry spell, we have welcomed and talked with three separate Prime Ministers, Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison. And while I’ll happily attend and constructively contribute to the Prime Minister’s Drought Forum today we are quickly growing tired of repeating the same needs over and over. I acknowledge the support to date, but we are in crisis, we need support that will make a real meaningful difference to people in rural communities,” said Cr Chandler.

“For more than a decade many workable solutions have been offered, we don’t need another talk fest. We need a government that will be bold enough to drive transformational change and finally erect the scaffolding around communities to enable them to develop their economies to be diversified away from weather dependence,” Councillor Chandler said.

On the 11th of September 2003 Senator Ursula Stephens in her Rural and Regional Australia speech spoke of changes needed to the zonal tax rebate scheme, water reform and how to protect the rural economy among other critical changes needed to support communities during and recovering from drought.

Fast forward a more than a decade and RAPAD’s submission to the Queensland Drought Program review called for 10 key actions including; responding to the economic and personal costs of drought, protecting the rural economy, focussing on a renewable energy future, restoration of zone tax rebate scheme and water reform.

Back in 2008 The Local Government and Shires Association of NSW provided a submission to the Drought Policy Review which highlighted many issues also covered in this year’s the Beyond the Dust report released by the Western Queensland Drought Appeal.

Both had many recommendations to help build resilience in communities going through drought. Beyond the Dust report concluded with a set of four principles, to underpin strong governance arrangements and to support resilience building in the Central West region.

The report also set out 17 major recommendations which included transforming governance to foster local decision making.

“The research is in; the solutions are on the record and have been for many years. Drought stricken communities are starting to believe all the submissions and reporting would be better utilized as fodder for hungry sheep and cattle unless real tangible, short, medium and long term actions are taken by government,” Councillor Chandler said.

“I look forward to being part of the Prime Ministers Drought Forum today and I am hopeful it will the last one…not because droughts are rare, quite the opposite…. but because this government takes on the big job of improving the future of regional, rural and remote Australia,” he said.

An economic development body in outback Queensland has told the state government a major rethink is needed to improve how the state prepares for and supports rural economies and communities before, during and after drought.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board in central western Queensland has submitted a report to the Queensland Drought Program Review. The report highlights a need for government to change its reaction to drought, how it assists communities and businesses around drought and offers solutions to fix a broken system.

“The future of the region largely depends on what Government, RAPAD, business and the community do now. Things must change, ‘more of the same’ or ‘business as usual’ is simply not an option,” RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler said.

“We are painfully aware the review cannot make the rain fall but it is an opportunity to put forward new ways to rapidly encourage social and economic growth of the RAPAD communities to sustain the region in these lean times and for the long run,” Councillor Chandler said.

All seven councils of the RAPAD region have been fully drought declared since 2014, the communities within the region are currently experiencing the worst drought in its history.

“Record temperatures, and minimal rain events are combining to create devastating outcomes for primary producers, businesses and communities.

“Huge reductions in livestock numbers due to continued failed summers have resulted in limited to zero cash flow for businesses, and a significant decrease in their equity positions due to increasing debt levels, decreasing livestock numbers and reduced land valuations,” he said.

Because the response to drought is critical to this region, RAPAD have engaged economic expert Dr Mark McGovern to listen to the community and apply his deep understanding and experience in economics, finance, government, trade and rural industries to develop our considered feedback and provide robust solutions.

Dr McGovern’s investigation has found that drought has highlighted underlying

(sectoral and regional) imbalances and policy deficiencies (enterprise, industry and govt) so he concludes foundational problems not symptoms need to be addressed.

“Essentially, we have had a long period of capital run down (human, physical, financial and the like) due to negative economic profits across agricultural sectors and rebalancing of government policies in ways that discriminated against rural and remote areas, compounded by naive competition policies and denial of trade realities and theories,” Dr McGovern said.

“Much can be done to restore financial/economic/societal viability but continuing approaches, policies and “quick fix” thinking that lead to today’s problems will not solve anything,” he said.

Dr McGovern says we need to work together to:

• sustain key capacities
• care for people affected
• identify and agree key problems
• act responsively, insightfully and prudently
• refresh our perceptions, wisdoms and consciousness
• avoid crises, f*ckless losses and needless destruction of capitals
• reposition our policies and procedures to optimise real realisable returns on resources

Actively pursuing how we might together meet these goals is the real task at hand.

“Emergency response is important, but on its own is not enough – our communities deserve more. It needs to be accompanied by deliberate, long-term, strategic and coordinated support, delivered through the whole drought cycle, to help councils, businesses and communities prepare for drought, cope with drought when it is happening, and recover rapidly afterwards,” Dr McGovern said

RAPAD’s submission recommends 10 key actions which can be read in the submission in full including; responding to the economic and personal costs of drought, protecting the rural economy, focussing on a renewable energy future, restoration of zone tax rebate scheme and water reform.

RAPAD thanks the State Government for the opportunity to provide independent, first-hand experience as feedback to the process.

“What’s needed from here is for government pick up the reins and drive change and look forward to future opportunities to collaborate on building a prosperous future for outback Queensland,” RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler said.

Almost 60% of Queensland has united to call on the Federal Government to increase overall funding for local government and to put in place targeted funding programs for rural and remote councils.

The 21 councils ranging from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the New South Wales border, generate $9.35B of the State’s Gross Product from 1.3 per cent of the Queensland’s population.

This contribution, coming from the resources and agricultural sectors, is 2.2 times per capita above the Queensland average, demonstrating the value of the Western Queensland regions to the State and national economies.

This is achieved despite the current challenges faced by the councils and their communities.

“All of western Queensland has been punching well above its weight in terms of its contribution to the national economy with unsatisfactory Federal funding, if we are to continue we require a fair deal and targeted support,” Cr Rob Chandler, Chair of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) said.

Recent analysis undertaken by the AEC Group for the three regional organisations of councils – North West Queensland based on Normanton, RAPAD based on Longreach and South West LGA based on St George, highlights the pressure faced by their 21-member councils.

Amongst the pressures are:

• Substantial population decline over the last five years
• Adverse weather conditions with the majority in drought since 2013, and
• Considerably higher costs of the living for goods and services.
• These factors are increasing the pressure on the councils’ budgets because of:
• Their limited rating and revenue raising capacity spread across large geographical areas
• Ageing community infrastructure requiring large renewal investment
• New infrastructure challenges to support increased resource sector activity, and
• Volatility of operating grants significantly impacting the provision of infrastructure and services to their communities.

This volatility in external funding cannot be replaced by the councils because of their own limited revenue raising capacity. External funding particularly from the Commonwealth government is essential to the wellbeing and sustainability of Western Queensland communities, and their ability to continue their above average contribution to the nation’s economy.

The report concludes that in addition to a growth in external funding, greater certainty and predictability is required. Strategic infrastructure investment and service provision can only be achieved if there is certainty in long term funding sources and levels.

To achieve this outcome the councils have called on the Commonwealth government to:

• Return the Financial Assistance Grants Scheme funding levels to one percent of total Commonwealth taxation revenue. Originally at one percent it has dropped in recent years to .55 percent.
• Continue other programs accessed by the councils or beneficial to their communities such as: Roads to Recovery, Black Spots, Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity, Bridges Renewal, Northern Australia Beef Roads, Northern Australia Roads, National Highways Upgrade and Outback Way.
• Commit to the development of a longer-term funding regime for rural and remote councils based on an allocative model similar to that used for the Roads to Recovery Program to achieve predictability and certainty of funding levels and to minimise the costly and lengthy delays involved in multiple bid-based programs.

Chairs of the three ROCS – Mayor Jack Bawden (Carpentaria Shire Council), Mayor Rob Chandler (Barcaldine Regional Council) and Mayor Richard Marsh (Balonne Shire Council) called on the Government, Opposition and the Cross Bench to take seriously the need for reform of funding for rural and remote councils.

“Whilst short term crisis response programs are welcomed there needs to be a longer-term vision for the funding of these areas so fundamentally important to the nation’s economy through the supply of raw materials, and food and fibre for the nation’s growing population,” Cr Chandler said.

“Commonwealth funding can be more strategically invested with better long-term planning, priority assessment and a collaborative regional approach to project timing and co-funding arrangements,” Cr Marsh said.

“For too long rural and remote regions and their communities have been unfairly treated with the level of return they receive from the Commonwealth government against the value they create for the national economy. We are seeking a fundamental rethink of how the Commonwealth Government funds rural and remote councils,” Cr Bawden concluded.

RAPAD will host its first women’s entrepreneur retreat in Muttaburra 27 to 28 October 2018 as part of its plan to grow a community of female entrepreneurs in Outback Queensland and beyond.

The mpowHER initiative is part of RAPAD’s drive to deliver on its Strategic Plan priority to foster innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship across the region.

RAPAD CEO David Arnold said: “As the drought continues to impact our communities, being able to look at new opportunities for income as well as business and personal development is invaluable.

“Through partnerships, friendship and inspiration, we’re building a network to encourage other women to bravely step into entrepreneurship, or to support others to do so.

“Whether it is juggling family and income, providing off-farm income or starting a new business for interest reasons, outback women are innovators and entrepreneurs,” he said.

“We’re excited to host our first mpowHER event in Muttaburra; a great chance to start a dynamic, innovative community hub that we can learn from and draw inspiration for the future of the program.”

Event coordinator, Jane Jenkins said the Muttaburra Retreat weekend was a fantastic opportunity for local women to get together in a small group with professional speakers covering topics relevant to them.

“The focus of the weekend includes creating a network that comes together to support and develop women in and around Muttaburra. Program features include empowering women through the tough times, tips on getting your mojo back, building connections within the community and even dinner with a dinosaur.

“It’s going to be an inspirational and motivational weekend, breaking down the barriers for women in our region together,” Jane said.

“We have had an amazing response from the speakers travelling to our region, as well as the local community, including the Longreach Lions Club which is supporting five registrations for local women. Local women can complete a short application form for themselves or someone else, to be considered for the sponsored registration.”

“We look forward to sharing the outcomes from the weekend and encourage other regional locations to consider supporting future events with us – visit mpowHER.com.au for more information,” Jane said.

All meals are included in registration, with event organisers able to assist with finding accommodation options if needed. Registration is $150, with an early bird rate of $100 finishing on 12 October.

Contact Jane Jenkins for more information on the program, or the for a ‘sponsored registration’ application form by email jane@rapad.com.au or phone 0422 413 483.

The mpowHER initiative is delivered by the Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning with support from Advance Queensland.

Mental health providers in central western Queensland will initiate a number of actions to support better connection and greater cross agency advocacy to drive better health outcomes for the region after a RAPAD and Western Queensland Primarily Health Network round table discussion.

RAPAD Chairman and Barcaldine Regional Council Mayor Rob Chandler says every mental health provider in the central west attended.

“It’s our job to broker these sorts of meetings to improve mental health provision for our community,” he said.

RAPAD is made up of the seven local government areas of the central west Queensland and it wants mental health funding and service delivery to be targeted so it reaches the right people at the right times, are well planned to avoid duplication and be based on researched needs of the community.

“We need to be confident our community is getting value and service from a well-coordinated service and in turn we can advocate very strongly on behalf of the WQPHN and hospital boards with state and federal governments,” Councillor Chandler said.

“I have no doubt when we meet again in 12 months we will have much better communications and working relationship between service providers. When someone gets in strife we will know exactly who to call,” Councillor Chandler said.

The day provided a unique opportunity for representatives from RAPAD, Department of Agriculture, Rural Financial Counsellors and mental health service providers to explore key barriers and practical steps that can be undertaken to improve the performance and collective impacts of services on the ground.

The roundtable discussions were facilitated by the WQPHN and CEO Stuart Gordon says it enabled an important exchange of ideas and information from all organisations and highlighted a number of key areas where there can be improvement.

“As an organisation that commissions services in the Central West, bringing stakeholders together to consider practical solutions that increase access to the right care at the right time is central to achieving better quality for the people of the Central West,” he said.

“We will be actively working to improve our collective impact to address mental health stigma, workforce challenges, funding and communication, including how non-clinical support by trusted local advocates can be incorporated into the local mental health support networks,” Mr Gordon said.

Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Ivan Frkovic attended the meeting and encouraged local networks to do more to ensure better integration of services locally.

“When service providers collaborate, remove barriers to seamless integration, improve communication and advocacy across networks, we create a system that is easier to navigate and access.

“This is what consumers want and expect and the Commission strongly supports the Roundtable discussions and commends the WQPHN and RAPAD for hosting this important event in the Central West,” he said.

Service providers will continue to work on collaborative operational improvements and a commitment was made to meet with RAPAD in 12 months’ time.

A landmark Mental Health Roundtable will hear that better integration between hospitals, GPs and other health providers, along with meaningful community engagement, are keys to responding to the disturbing impacts of mental illness in rural and regional Queensland.

The Queensland-first meeting will bring together a range of service providers operating at the coalface of rural hardship, where outback communities are battling high rates of anxiety, emotional trauma and depression, exacerbated by the prolonged drought.

“The statistics around mental illness and its consequences in Western Queensland are well-known and complex, but they also mask some fantastic, collaborative work already being done on the ground,”
Western Queensland Primary Health Network (WQPHN) CEO Stuart Gordon said.

“Our patch covers almost a million square kilometres, more than half of Queensland, and we are working with health providers across the region to promote new partnerships and foster real innovation that will open better access to customised healthcare, better suited to the individual needs of people experiencing mental distress.”

The Central West Mental Health Roundtable, held in the heart of drought-ravaged Queensland in Longreach (17/09/18), will bring together stakeholders from Local Government Authorities, Rural Financial Counselling Services, WQPHN Commissioned Service Providers and State Government Mental Health Services.

“We know that the key to taking the fight up to mental illness in the bush is harnessing the resilience and strength of outback communities, not only through GPs and allied mental health professionals, but also through integrating non-clinical people to enhance access to the right care, at the right time and in the right setting,” Mr Gordon said.

“In addition to the many services currently commissioned by the WQPHN, people who don’t necessarily have a clinical background, but have valuable life experience, can make a significant contribution to build a more comprehensive mental health service.”

In a Queensland first, a free, connected Wi-Fi service over more than 300,000 square kilometres has been launched in central western Queensland.

Outback Wi-Fi is now live across five towns in the Diamantina, Boulia, Winton and Barcaldine local government areas with Longreach’s switch on only days away.

“Outback Wi-Fi is a first for Queensland, connecting our visitors across each of our council regions to enable them to better plan their time with us and to open new opportunities for our own communities and business,” CEO of RAPAD David Arnold said.

The single sign on service is providing reliable, high speed connectivity to locals and visitors from access point to access points in towns and regions.

The operation of Outback Wi-Fi is centrally managed by RAPAD’s Outback Digital arm to ensure consistent service and optimum outcomes.

“Our role is to support the digital enablement of our region and Outback Wi-Fi is a milestone in this journey that we are extremely proud of,” David Arnold said.

The service provides free Wi-Fi for locals and visitors across the towns without needing to keep signing in at each new location, meaning its less hassle to use and easier to connect with friends and family, do business on the road or keep planning their travel through the region.

“The value for us is not only to provide visitors with a world of options of how to get the most from their stay but also for our local businesses and community to connect with these visitors to make sure they have the best possible experience with us,” said Winton Mayor Gavin Baskett.

The Wi-Fi network also allows the RAPAD region to capture valuable data about who is using the service, where they log on and how they travel through the region which provides priceless insights for local tourism operators and businesses.

While the Farm Household Allowance has been around since 2014 over the last few months there have been several changes to eligibility, an extension to a fourth year and the introduction of bonus payments which are available for a short time only.

Originally the payment had a 3-year lifespan but in June the government announced afourth-year extension. The payment provides assistance in the form of a cash paymentof $492.80 a fortnight for each member of a couple, $545.80 for singles and $590.40for singles with dependent children. It also assists by providing recipients with a healthcare card and $4000 to spend on training or upskilling.

While touring drought-stricken parts of the country the Federal Agriculture MinisterDavid Littleproud announced a lump sum payment for FHA recipients of up to$12000 per couple and $7200 for singles that must be applied for before the 1st ofDecember 2018.

Legislation has been introduced into parliament to double the farm assets threshold to a net of $5 million effective between 1st November this year and 30th of June 2019.

So the paperwork pressure is on for farmers, who fit within the qualifying criteria of both the Assets and Income Tests, to apply for FHA after the 1st of November 2018 but before the 1st f December 2018 to receive the full lump sum.

If your operation exceeds the current or new asset threshold, don’t stop reading yet because, hardship provisions can apply for those farmers whose farm assets exceed the current or increasing limit.

To be eligible farmers’ off farm assets are also considered and can’t be worth more than $258 500 for single homeowners ($465,000 for non-homeowners) or $387,500 for a couple combined ($594 500 for those who are not homeowners).

Farm and off farm income will be reviewed during the application, however generally speaking it is capped at $1927 per fortnight for couples combined or $1053.34 for singles.

Rachel Bock is based in Longreach and has been with Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland since 2014 and knows the ins and outs of the payment and the process.

Here she compares two operations one that will be eligible for FHA and one that will not.

“A family wool growing operation purchased the property in 2010 for $4.8m. Since the time of purchase there had been no improvements made to the property and it’s currently in its sixth year of drought.

The property is running 3,000 sheep at present but normally runs 8-9000. The business owners estimate the property in its current condition could fetch perhaps close to $3M taking off $200,000 for the value of the homestead and the surrounding 5 acres.

The estimated value of stock and other farm assets are approx. $450,000. With farm assets totalling $3,450,000 and a debt of $1,200,000 the net farm asset value is $2,250,000. The business owner has no other off-farm assets but is currently contracting off-farm to help make ends meet.

Because the sheep and wool business made a sizeable loss in the previous tax year and is projected to make another sizeable loss this year this off-farm income can be offset against the interest repayments which are currently $60,000 per annum. This family will be eligible for the FHA,” she said.

However, another similar sized enterprise with no off-farm income but whose owners own an investment property in Toowoomba with no debt worth approximately $600,000 and a share portfolio worth approximately $220,000 would not come in under the off-farm asset threshold” Ms Bock said.

While it is helpful to understand the eligibility parametres around the payment it is so important not to self-assess and contact an RFC, like Rachel Bock.

“I’ve not come across many rural operations which are set up exactly the same way and that’s why it is so important to have your business considered individually by someone who understands FHA,” Ms Bock said.

“Don’t rely on whether your neighbour was approved to decide if you are eligible and don’t listen to commentary on social media, find out if it suits your circ*mstance and set up by talking to us,” Rachel Bock said.

“Expect to dedicate a day in the office to complete two applications if you are a couple. It might seem onerous, but the payment can equate to over $37k in the next 12 months including bonuses,” she said.

How the payment looks into the future is uncertain because an independent review of the program is being undertaken which is expected to be completed the first half of 2019 according to David Littleproud.

At the time of writing the legislative changes were still before parliament.

RFCSNQ is one of 12 services nationally that provides free rural financial counselling service under the Australian and State Government supported program. Ms Bock is oneof seven experienced Rural Financial Counsellors servicing the North Queensland region.

RFCSNQ provides a confidential, free and impartial rural financial counselling service to primary producers, fishers and small rural businesses who are suffering, or at imminent risk of suffering, financial hardship.

Contact details for RFCSNQ can be found at www.rfcsnq.com.au

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board has welcomed the Federal Government’s $11.4 million investment on mental health support initiatives announced with other drought support measures.

“I know from first hand, having lived through many, drought is a taxing time, on the land, on finances and on people’s mental health,” RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler said.

RAPAD is made up of the seven local government areas of the central west Queensland and it wants the government funding to be targeted so services reach the right people at the right times, are well planned to avoid duplication and be based on researched needs of the community.

“As a tax payer I want to see the communities getting optimum care and the government delivering the best possible outcomes from this investment,” Cr Rob Chandler said.

Over the past six years of drought in our region we have seen the wave of good will and investment to support communities come and go.

As an advocacy organisation we know if unmanaged and poorly researched the wave could lead to duplication and missed opportunities.

RAPAD also has a strong interest in supporting the agricultural community and has demonstrated this through its long running and successful stewardship of the Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland (RFCSNQ).

RAPAD board member, Mayor of Boulia Shire Council, Chairman of the RFCSNQ and grazier Rick Britton says there are clear and helpful synergies between the services.

“We have experience in assisting producers in financial hardship which often is tinged with emotional hardship. We understand the back story and we see at times where service gaps exist or at worst duplicate,” Councillor Britton said.

The Beyond the Dust report released by the Western Queensland Drought Appeal had many recommendations to help build resilience in communities going through drought.

It concluded with a set of four principles, to underpin strong governance arrangements and to support resilience building in the Central West region, one of those was to value local knowledge.

The report also set out 17 major recommendations which included transforming governance to foster local decision making.

RAPAD is keen to see the Western Qld Primary Health Network play a coordinating and commissioning role in the delivery of any new funds coming into the region to ensure optimum service delivery.

RAPAD is not a mental health service provider however our mantle is to facilitate and advocate the best outcome for this region and a well coordinated, adequately funded, actual needs based health and well being program which enhances and supports our community is in everyone’s best interest.

“We know our community better than anyone and we want to make ourselves available to support the department and it’s service delivery,” Councillor Chandler said.

Seventeen enthusiastic regional delegates came together at Blackall’s Living Arts Centre over the weekend to develop their digital and presentation skills to become Regional Digital Champions under RAPAD’s Outbackhubs.

Funded by Advance Queensland’s Advancing Regional Innovation Program, RAPAD engaged Tim Gentle, from Think Digital to upskill and empower these individuals. Tim is no stranger to the region having presented workshops several times in the last two years, with the last being a three week circuit of the more remote communities in the RAPAD region, along with two days at Westech.

While the rain was certainly welcome, it did prove a challenge to several participants, however the Outbackhubs virtual ZoomRoom platform enabled a participant at both Windorah and Bedourie to join the camp.

Two action-packed days saw the ‘digital tribe’ gain presentation skills and knowledge on Digital Marketing, AR [Augmented Reality] and VR [Virtual Reality] before the final session of collaboratively presenting the Digital Basics workshop.

Under the Outbackhubs, the new Digital Champions will build and deliver a suite of activities and workshops in the RAPAD communities.

Facilitated by RAPAD’s Kristine Arnold, the camp builds on other activities under the innovation guidance of our Entrepreneur in Residence, Daniel Johnsen, here from Kentucy, USA, including the Startup Weekends, Co.Starters Business Bootcamp and business workshops.

‘RAPAD, through support from several State Government Departments has been really active in the innovation, entrepreneurship and digital technology space,’ Mrs Arnold said.

‘Just last week, we had Cailyn Muntelwit from Tambo, the winner of our Global Startup Weekend Women Outback travel to Paris to pitch at the Global final of this concurrent event with 30 other women. How exciting is that for our region. As only one of three from Australia, this proves how engaged our region is in the innovation and entrepreneurship space,’ Mrs Arnold concluded.

Next on our agenda, is the two-day Myriad Innovation Festival in Brisbane. The Outback ARIP funding is supporting a delegation of ten participants to this event in May and applications close this Friday for this. Head towww.outbackhubs.com.au/en/events to find out more details on this and other events and jump on board.

Contact:

Kristine Arnold

0427649031

karnold@rapad.com.au

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board’s Outback Aerodrone Symposium hosted more than 100 people including a delegation of 10 from Japan over the weekend at its inaugural event in Barcaldine.

RAPAD CEO David Arnold said the event attracted strong interest from locals, to top industry presenters, as well as the Japanese business delegation led by Trade & Investment Queensland (TIQ).

View our event image gallery

“The registration numbers and calibre of speakers we had on the program was fantastic, but to also have international delegates attend our inaugural event was beyond expectation,” Mr Arnold said.

“We’ve had great support from our speakers and exhibitors who travelled to Barcaldine under their own initiative. Feedback has been extremely positive with one particular business venture to be established in the Central West now in the pipeline,” he said.

“The Japanese delegates, representing companies including Mitsubishi and leading drone group enRoute, was a great coup for the region. This is perhaps the first time a Japanese delegation of this kind has visited our region.

“Working with TIQ Business Development Manager, Melissa Inooka, the delegates had identified the opportunity to look at areas that would be of benefit for investment and application in Japan, including our wide open spaces, agricultural industry and responding to disasters.

“The delegates had a great experience and were treated to real Outback hospitality including a tour of a sheep property hosted by David Counsell on Dunblane before they returned home,” Mr Arnold said.

David Arnold said RAPAD would also be looking for Expressions of Interest from locals who are interested in using their property as a host drone testing venue in the future.

“We have leaders from the industry telling us what they are looking for in terms of testing facilities and Central West Queensland hits the mark with wide open skies, clear horizons and a collaborative mind-set.

“We will be working with locals who meet requirements to harness this opportunity for their benefit and the greater benefit of our region,” Mr Arnold said.

RAPAD Chair and Mayor of Barcaldine Regional Council, Cr Rob Chandler, said the event provided a real boost to Barcaldine and will continue to have an affect across the region into the future.

“Barcaldine Regional Council was proud to support and host this first-of-its-kind event. We know that this is something we need to be looking at now and I encourage landholders who are interested in connecting to hosting opportunities to jump on board and work with RAPAD,” Cr Chandler said.

“This event was the result of extensive work by the RAPAD team, getting into unchartered territory and establishing valuable networks. The program has set a benchmark for the future delivering relevant for our region, and connected locals to the right information, services and providers.

“Through RAPAD, the seven councils of Central Western Queensland aim to enhance the technology and digital economy of our region.

“As the symposium program says: “the sky’s the limit” and this event certainly goes beyond council boundaries and the outcome will always be a win for the RAPAD region, Outback Queensland and beyond.

“We’re proud to be leading the charge for regional Australia to put the power of these technologies within reach of our communities,” Cr Chandler said.

Outback Aerodrone Symposium 2018 was supported by the Queensland Government through Advance Queensland, and the Barcaldine Regional Council. RAPAD gratefully acknowledges the support of presenters and exhibitors as well as the local community who provided services and support throughout the program.

Further information is available online at www.outbackaerodrone.com.au.

The RAPAD region is ready to take the next step in reinventing itself as one of the most resilient communities in Australia underpinned by renewable energy.

In February 2018 a determined cluster of seven central west local government areas shared a vision, which was endorsed by government and industry, for the region to generate Queensland’s electricity needs from renewable energy, in turn facilitating transformative economic and social benefit for the region, while becoming an energy super power of the low carbon world.

A confidential concept report “Realising the RAPAD Big Vision” has just been completed by Sharon Denny, Global Futuremakers, fleshing out what the region could look like and highlighting varied methods to realise the region’s vision.

“The RAPAD region has an opportunity to make itself resilient and self-sufficient on all fronts, through opportunities opened up by access to low cost power. Energy is an all empowering resource, and access to reliable, cost-effective energy re-establishes a community’s independence. It all starts with energy,” said Ms Denny.

The report paints a multi layered vision that has the capacity to generate a self-reliant region resistant to the impacts of climate, with high liveability.

“The region could grow a broader variety of foods through sophisticated production systems, access, manufacture and recycle more water, attract and grow diverse industry, create jobs and provide more educational options. ”

“To embark on attracting and developing large scale green energy in the region without robust consideration of how that power enhances the liveability of local communities, councils and industry, how it’s integrated with digital technology and varied options for its utilisation, would be the vision half realised,” she said.

“That’s why we’ve taken a circular economy approach, which is basically applying a systems overview, that ensures today’s profit isn’t a result of tomorrow’s expense,” she said. Longreach Regional Council Mayor Ed Warren is keen to push the renewable energy agenda forward.

“This project is not being undertaken because RAPAD has a green agenda it is being undertaken to assist our region overcome the problems of depopulation, lack of economic diversity and to create new job opportunities and attract investment,” he said.

“We recognise the region’s strategic natural advantages in low emissions energy sources which can potentially make us competitive as a location for energy intensive industries and begin to diversify the local economy away from the impacts of weather,” said Mr Warren.

The Barcaldine Regional Council area has already welcomed renewable energy generators into the community but on a harvesting and output model.

“We see the arrival of solar farms as a first step, as a region we need to make sure the model evolves so it can attract and retain new industries and create ongoing sustainable jobs here in our communities,” said Barcaldine Regional Council CEO Steven Boxall.

“If we can provide residents and businesses with very inexpensive power, money will be freed up to circulate through the economy and that will help, but if we can also attract new businesses with our clean low-cost power the impact on the local economy will sky rocket and our economy will be able to withstand the buffeting by markets and weather,” he said.

The report highlights industries like aquaculture, intensive horticulture, manufacturing that could be attracted to cheap clean energy.

The RAPAD board has accepted Ms Denny’s report and extends its appreciation to the Department of Environment and Science for funding the report which will now be used in future discussions with government, industry and private enterprise.

Councils have been asked to consider the concept report.

Read the release at https://www.outbackaerodrone.com.au/blog/2018/7/19/fast-drone-facts-from-casa

Read the release at https://www.outbackaerodrone.com.au/blog/2018/7/19/ids-australasia-to-bring-global-uav-expertise-to-outback-aerodrone-program

Flying drones/remotely piloted aircraft in Australia: what you need to know.

Read the release at: https://www.outbackaerodrone.com.au/blog/2018/7/13/no-time-for-drone-cowboys-at-outback-aerodrone

Our first program spotlight features the man who can help you answer those questions and more. We’re pleased to welcome Neil Glentworth back to Central West Queensland as a speaker at our first Outback Aerodrone Symposium. Neil was also a presenter and mentor atRAPAD’s Westech Field Day Innovation and Technology Spacein September 2017.

Read the release at: https://www.outbackaerodrone.com.au/blog/2018/7/13/outback-aerodrone-welcomes-data-expert-neil-glentworth-to-the-program

There will be an influx of Akubras in Brisbane this week as community and industry leaders from central western Queensland gather to build the western economy by more than 1.6 billion dollars and address air travel challenges facing the region.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board has designed two outcomes focused forums in Brisbane this week centred on tourism and flights.

“Air travel has always been key to the development and growth of the outback,” said RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler.

“We need regular affordable air services, and to achieve that we need the current or prospective airlines to partner with us to grow the region” he said.

On Tuesday (31 July) tourism, health, community and industry representatives will gather to develop a position on air services which will be used to develop real solutions to address the situation.

“Currently we don’t have the capacity to fully embrace the opportunities to grow international and domestic high-end tourism markets or provide affordable connection between our residents and the rest of Australia.”

“A fast, safe, affordable connection is vital, so outback people can to catch up with families and friends, grow and develop business or professional skills, engage with leisure and culture outside the region or access services just not available locally, like specialist health care,” said Councillor Chandler.

“We will muster ourselves as a region and develop a united front to meet this challenge,” he said.

On Wednesday (1 August) a separate group of regional industry leaders will join with other specialists from across the state to develop a plan to grow the tourism industry in western Queensland by 262% by 2031.

“More and more often we see that people are looking for a genuine experience, the outback offers that. It is a genuine experience-based product that has the potential to create a lasting connection between us and the broader Australian population and the world,” Councillor Chandler said.

RAPADs Tourism Futures Forum will engage participants in robust discussions to explore areas of opportunity that could increase the contribution of tourism to western Queensland by 1.67 billion dollars in the next 13 years.

“Tourism is one of the shining lights on the horizon for economic development in our region.”

“The outback community’s understanding of the value of tourism to its viability has never been clearer, the current drought has left no local business in doubt about its value and potential,” he said.

“It is one of our major economic drivers and we need to make sure we can grow it sustainably as a group, continue to attract investment and diversity or grow to attract non-traditional markets,” Councillor Chandler said.

The group will set out to identify and remove duplication of tourism spend in different council regions, identifying opportunities for data led decision making and to push forward positive actions in RAPAD’s Smart Central West Digital Strategy.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is celebrating the success of the regions first entrepreneur in residence.

“This regionally instigated initiative has provided an enviable return on investment,” RAPAD CEO David Arnold said.

Over the last year the program has delivered;

• shared spaces across the region equipped with video conferencing technology,
• intensive start up business training,
• digital training encompassing social media, coding, digital printing, marketing and website training
• ran remote Australia’s only startup weekends,
• lead a team of entrepreneurs to international innovation conference Myriad Festival, and supported local business people to develop their enterprises

“It’s an impressive record considering all these achievements have been delivered since Daniel Johnsen became outback Queensland’s first Entrepreneur In Residence in May 2017,” Mr Arnold said.

The Entrepreneur In Residence role was created by RAPAD and funded by the Department of State Development’s Remote Area Board funding.

Its mission was to engage and support emerging and existing businesses in the central west.

Julie Brown started her sun safe swimwear company, Coola Cozzies, in 2015 but used the services of the Entrepreneur In Residence to help her grow the enterprise into the wholesale market.

“To be able to access Daniel’s expertise in a timely, convenient manner, and for free, is such an incredible service especially in a community the size of Longreach in Western Queensland,” she said.

“Thank you RAPAD for having the foresight to employ an Entrepreneur In Residence,” she said.

The final report into round one of central western Queensland’s largest fencing project shows it’s on track to provide a boost to the regional economy in proportional terms, the same as creating 62 thousand new jobs in Brisbane over the next decade.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) has released a comprehensive final report into the state government funded Queensland Feral Pest Initiative, Cluster Fencing Project spanning from March 2016 until April 2018.A full copy of the report is available here.

Between the 2011 and 2016 census periods, the RAPAD region has experienced a 14% decline in population and a 12.5% decline in jobs.

The fencing project will bring sheep back to the region, which in turn will create jobs and then bring more families back to live in the area.

Brisbane based economist with Hall Chadwick, Andrew Perkins, has looked at the program’s achievements, and projections over the next decade.

“The population is forecast to rise by 17% and jobs increase by 7.5%. To illustrate the magnitude of this change, if the same occurred in the Brisbane area in proportional terms, this would equate to an additional 200,000 people and 62,000 new jobs in the state’s capital,” he said

RAPAD CEO David Arnold acknowledges the election promise made by the Queensland Government last year to further fund the project and says now is the time to release the funding.

“We need to keep this momentum up and get round three rolling out across the region to deliver growth, jobs, and more confidence to the wool industry,” he said.

The program’s highlights include:

• Seventeen clusters representing 87 landholders formed
• Almost 1770km of fencing has been erected protecting 855 761 ha from wild dog predation
• Private investment of $11.36m equal to 70% of entire project
• All clusters have developed property management plans in partnership with Agforce, Invasive Animals CRC and National Wild Dog Action Plan.

In addition to the on-farm development and investment, the fencing program teamed with RAPAD Employment Services Qld (RESQ) to train long term unemployed in fencing skills. As a result of this, 15 long term unemployed have gained secure employment.

The project’s success has been recognised nationally. The Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development sought the guidance and knowledge of RAPAD to develop their own model which was delivered in 2017.

Testimonials provided by wool growers inside clusters are provided in the report and include;

“I only realized in the last few weeks, with some peace of mind, how much time I now have on my hands because I’m not concentrating on chasing dogs. Before fencing every time, I thought I had a spare moment it was taken up with chasing dogs! It takes days! First you have to find when they are, then set the trap etc. It’s not a five-minute job. I haven’t had a weekend off for years now it looks like I will.”

“I knew I would have a more content husband when the fence was up, but it’s been a real bonus us having more content sheep as well.”

“Fencing was the great distraction people needed in the drought. They could focus positively. Now people are looking 5-10 years down the track, but before the focus was only on the here and now. The massive shift in positivity has been paramount!”

“I’m able to pay someone else part time already. Going forward and being able to have more sheep here will mean a bigger chance of having a person on full time. The fence will allow us more carrying capacity, and we will slowly build up. It means things like three weeks of shearing instead of a week.”

“I’ve got to take my hat off to RAPAD for making it happen.”

— ENDS —

For interviews:

David Arnold 0428 583 301

RAPAD – CEO

Andrew Perkins 0411 266 843

Hall Chadwick Qld – Director

For assistance contacting producers:

Morgan Gronold 0448 739 759

RAPAD – Senior Regional Development Manager

ABC Landline Story: https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/programs/landline/2018-11-24/dog-fence:-a-predator-proof-exclusion-fence/10551898

Get set for a weekend that’ll have you flying!
Not sure what drones, data and tech mean for you or your business?
Ready to take the next step with your current technology?
Chomping at the bit to see real demonstrations in the field?

Outback Aerodrone is the place for you
Strap yourself in for a great weekend where you’ll have unprecedented access to discussions with leading drone, data and tech professionals, in-field demonstrations, trade show and more.

Our Outback Aerodrone Symposium 2018 program has just landedfeaturing the fantastic line up of
speakers so far. But this is just the beginning; follow us onFacebook,Twitter orLinkedInfor regular updates,
with more speaker and program announcements to come.

Download the program

Take a look at our ticket packages and register now online

Right here in Central West Queensland
Meet and listen to some of Australia’s leading drone and data experts
Better understand the value and relevance of drone, data & technology options to your business.

Come fly in our backyard!
Travelling to the region? Plan your visit to Barcaldine and make the most of your stay in Outback Queensland. It’s the place to live Australia’s story and get to know your Outback mates check out:outbackqueensland.com.au

View and share this news online
Contacts:

Kristine Arnold, RAPAD – Mobile: 0427 649 031, Email: karnold@rapad.com.au
Morgan Gronold, RAPAD – Mobile: 0448 739 759, Email: mgronold@rapad.com.au

As the RSIS Project Coordinator you will:

• Promote the RSIS objectives in the RAPAD region to identify current and emerging jobspredominantly in the tourism and hospitality, community services and agriculture (focused on the sheep and wool industries) sectors, and ensure there is a supply of skilled local people to meet demand,
• Establish and support a local RSIS reference group, and ensure program objectives and project milestones remain the focus,
• Lead stakeholder engagement activities including small group discussions, individual meetings and forums,
• Engage with local industry and community to identify training and skills issues, and develop solutions in partnership with DESBT,
• Provide high level project management and coordination of project to achieve outcomes associated with the Queensland Government’s Annual VET Investment Plan,
• Provide timely advice and information to DESBT regarding RSIS project activities and outcomes,
• Promote VET pathways and training available under the Annual VET Investment Plan,
• Collaborate with RSIS Project Coordinators in other regions to share best practice and support the development of training solutions to challenging skills issues.

Your key skills

• High-level interpersonal skills used to build relationships, overcome diversity and influence change,
• Comprehensive understanding of the VET sector and related stakeholders including national and state regulators and professional industry bodies,
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the Queensland Government’s Annual VET Investment Plan,
• Strong time management skills and self-motivation and the ability to remain innovative and forward-thinking,
• Demonstrated project management skills to identify strategic goals and work autonomously against a project plan to achieve milestones and key objectives,
• Ability to understand current workforce and skills issues in the RAPAD region and specific to the target industries, and differentiate between training issues and broader workforce issues,
• Ability to identify and facilitate cooperation amongst stakeholders with conflicting agendas and motivators,
• Demonstrated ability in creating and building sustainable long-term networks and relationships,
• Strong research skills and a demonstrated ability to analyse qualitative and quantitative data and information to inform project goals,
• High-level written communication skills used to write and interpret briefs, written reports and other documentation as required,
• High-level oral communication skills used to facilitate presentations, chair meetings and speak publicly.

Key Facts

• Two year role commencing 1 August 2018
• Based in Central West Qld; preferably Longreach but that is not essential
• Closing Date for applications is 6 July 2018
• Vehicle provided for work purposes
• $102k salary

If you think you have the skills and attributes to undertake this role please contact David Arnold atceo@rapad.com.aufor an application package or view theapplication package here

RAPAD will kick off its plan to make the region a centre for drone testing as it hosts regional Australia’s first ever drones symposium in Barcaldine from 11 – 12 August 2018.

RAPAD is proud to present Outback Aerodrone Symposium exposing the region to the latest in drones and data technology, with a program including industry experts, hands-on demonstrations, and a trade show.

RAPAD CEO, David Arnold said the event will also launch Outback Aerodrone: RAPAD’s vision of a Centre of Excellence to position the region to be the choice location to host national and global companies in Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone testing.

“Outback Aerodrone 2018 provides a fantastic opportunity to meet and listen to some of Australia’s leading drone and data experts right here in our region,” Mr Arnold said.

“From agriculture, to emergency services, to infrastructure, drone technologies provide opportunities to support our communities and provide services like never before.

“We’ve had great success in delivering Start Up weekends and digital training across the region, and our technology precinct at Westech was buzzing last year, further demonstrating that people are already doing amazing things and there’s a strong appetite for more,” he said.

“The clear, open skies and light hours of Outback Queensland are all part of what makes our region a great drawcard for the world’s drone businesses and enthusiasts, as well as other opportunities.

“Our tourism figures are pushing up to one million visitors are year, this technology is another exciting area that can boost those figures and the many outstanding experiences our region has to offer.”

RAPAD Chair, Cr Rob Chandler said leading the way with these technologies means that region can be on the front foot to deliver many benefits to the local economy, skills capacity and jobs.

“The Central West is a place where everyone is ready to give it a go and technology is breaking down barriers in many areas – it’s an exciting time as we realise the significant amount of untapped potential we have here,” Cr Chandler said.

“Technology and the Digital Economy is one of RAPAD’s priority areas, and this event is delivering on our commitment to ensure individuals, businesses and communities are ready to take advantage of what’s available.

“Technology solutions such as drones are already on the radar or in use for many people in our region – generating local expertise, new businesses and jobs.

“By bringing together industry leaders and professionals from across the sector, the sky really is the limit for what attendees can get out of this.”

The Queensland Government released its Drones Strategy last year highlighting the importance of the fast growing sector and the State’s prime position in the global market.

Queensland is a world leader in drone technology and application. Our drone industry has strong investment and jobs growth, supported by our world‑leading research and development capability and a highly skilled workforce. Queensland is a place where drones complement and enhance Queenslanders’ lives and support our communities.

The Outback Aerodrone Symposium will be hosted at Gregory Park, 15 minutes south of Barcaldine, with bus transfers available. Registrations are now open with package details and further information available at www.outbackaerodrone.com.au.

Contacts:

David Arnold, CEO RAPAD – Mobile: 0428 583 301, Email: ceo@rapad.com.au

Kristine Arnold, RAPAD – Mobile: 0427 649 031, Email: karnold@rapad.com.au

Morgan Gronold, RAPAD – Mobile: 0448 739 759, Email: mgronold@rapad.com.au

The Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is advocating for any future cluster fencing funding rounds to investigate expanding the current model to include linking existing exclusion fences either privately or publicly funded.

With the current State and Federal Governments commitment of an additional $7m for pest and weed funding RAPAD Chair Cr Rob Chandler outlined, “I need to be clear, RAPAD continues to support the current cluster fencing model of enclosing properties as it stands now.

However we also feel, due to the success of this project and others, it would be worthwhile to consider allowing the linking of existing exclusion fences in potential future funding rounds as the more fencing that occurs in the region the better off producers and communities become”.

“The fences are working it’s as simple as that, and with a lot of the region getting some decent rain recently I am sure there will be even more desire for fencing from now on.

“As such I think it’s important to start this conversation now with those fenced, those wanting to fence, and the Government, about how we get the best bang for our buck from here going forward”.

Cr Chandler said that last year as part of the RAPAD EOI process feedback suggested those producers seeking to link existing exclusion fences, either privately or publicly funded, should be offered an opportunity to participate.

“There has been a lot of anecdotal discussion and ideas around linking existing exclusion fences and we are keen to hear more from producers on this”, said Cr Chandler.

RAPAD’s 2016 cluster fencing Expression Of Interest (EOI) determined if funded, when combined with current Round 1 and 2 fencing projects, would see:

• 1,000,000 sheep in central western Queensland;
• 2.2m ha fenced;
• 174 properties involved;
• $3.76 regional benefit per year as infinitum for every $1 of Government expenditure; and
• $1.18 increase in gross margin every year for every $1 that a producer spends on CAPEX.

As such ongoing funding would provide a continued catalyst for fencing thus bringing back more sheep and continuing to grow the economic, environmental and social benefit to the region and the state. This is supported by the 2017 Regional Australia Institute report, commissioned by RAPAD, which highlighted bringing back the sheep as one of six priority areas for RAPAD and the region.

The RAI report indicated cluster fencing could provide, “potential regional economic growth to $38.8m annually through increased gross margin from sheep production, stimulating jobs for an additional 158 people in the industry”.

RAPAD continues to advocate to the Queensland and Australian Governments for the progression of strategic cluster fencing in the local government areas of Barcaldine, Longreach, Blackall-Tambo, Winton, Barcoo, Boulia, Richmond, McKinlay and Flinders shires.

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

Ends

This May, Outback regional entrepreneurs, startups or innovative businesses have the opportunity to rub shoulders with thousands from around Australia and the world, including 380 from Silicon Valley who will be attending the Myriad three day innovation festival courtesy of QANTAS and Advance Qld sponsorship.

The Myriad Festival, being held over the three days at the Royal International Convention Centre in Brisbane from 16-18 May 2018, is a technology and innovation conference featuring founders, investors, thought leaders and senior executives from some of the most influential brands on the planet.

Last year, RAPAD’s Kristine Arnold lead a small delegation to Myriad, joining over 100 other regional entrepreneurs, startups and innovative businesses who showcased their ideas to 3,500 delegates from around the globe including major corporations, international investors and entrepreneurs.

“Despite Cyclone Debbie completely closing down Brisbane city, and Myriad, part way through day one of the festival last year, Myriad, including the Regional Innovation Showcase was a cracker of an event and wonderful opportunity to ‘mix it’ with the best from Australia and Asia Pacific.” Mrs Arnold said.

“This year it will build on last year’s successful program and provide a unique platform for our Outback regional entrepreneurs to exhibit, network and make valuable contacts across Australia, Asia Pacific and also with over 380 flying in from Silicon Valley. I can’t wait!”

2018’s program is designed to engage curious minds in a variety of unique formats, including: keynote presentations; fireside conversations; panel discussions; workshops; masterclasses; networking opportunities. The line-up of presenters can be found on the Myriad websitewww.myriad.live

With support from Advance Queensland’s ARIP funding, Outback Qld will again support a delegation of ten entrepreneurs, startups and innovative small to medium enterprises to attend and exhibit in the Regional Innovation Showcase at the Myriad Festival, rubbing shoulders with Silicon Valley, global and Australian peers with Mrs Arnold as concierge for the group.

“Who knows where this could lead. Successful delegates will receive a festival ticket [valued at $495] as well as a subsidy of $750 towards travel and accommodation costs. Such a great opportunity”, Mrs Arnold explained.

“To be selected, applicants must meet the Regional delegate eligibility criteria and complete the online application process.

Are you an Outback entrepreneur, startup or innovative business?

Would you like to exhibit, network and make valuable contacts in Australia and globally? Are you interested in attending? Then, apply now!!

To find out more and to apply, head towww.outbackhubs.com.au/en/eventsand complete an application before 9pm Sunday 18 March. Successful applications will be announced on Friday 23 March.

For more information contact Kristine Arnold atoutbackhubs@rapad.com.auor on 0427649031.

View application

End:

Media Contact:

Kristine Arnold

karnold@rapad.com.au

0427649031

Gregory Candidates Responses

Despite multiple requests over many weeks, only two of the Gregory candidates, LNPs Lachlan Millar and Independent Bruce Currie, have taken the time to respond to RAPADs 10 point election plan.

KAP, who are not running a candidate in Gregory, have also offered a response.

RAPADs 10-point election plan highlights the following areas for the Central West region.

• Growing business and community digital connections,
• Securing Essential Infrastructure to Support Economic Growth and Community Wellbeing,
• Helping Councils Manage Community Assets and Maintain Workforces,
• Protecting the Rural Economy,
• Growing Tourism to Diversify the Economy,
• Focusing on a Renewable Energy Future,
• Responding to the Economic and Personal Costs of Drought,
• Implementing Stock Route Management Reform,
• Securing Healthy Aged Living Services for our Seniors,
• Developing World Class Health Services for Rural Communities

“We stated several weeks ago that we would release the responses, and with only a day to go to polling day I doubt the ALP, Greens or PHON will respond,” said Cr Rob Chandler, Chair of RAPAD.

“I’d like to thank the LNP, KAP and Bruce Currie for responding however it’s disappointing the candidates from PHON, ALP and Greens, backed by their parties, could not see the value in advising seven Mayors how they would address our plan”, said Cr Chandler.

With less than one week until polling day, the seven mayors of Central Western Queensland are asking the question, “are all of the Gregory candidates serious about this election?”

The seven mayors, who between them, represent 22% of Queensland’s land mass and 7 of the 9 councils in the Gregory electorate area have made numerous approaches to all of the candidates along with Katter’s Australia Party, seeking their written feedback on RAPAD’s 10 point election plan. The plan was developed from extensive consultation.

Cr Rob Chandler, Chair of RAPAD, said the RAPAD office and former Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) General Manager of Advocacy Greg Hoffman, who has been engaged by RAPAD, have made the approaches to all candidates, and parties, over many weeks.

“Our plan is about enhancing and facilitating the continued economic, social and environmental sustainably of our region”, said Cr Chandler.

To date, LNP’s Member for Gregory Lachlan Millar has provided RAPAD with a written response addressing the plan, and attended the recent candidate’s forum.

Independent Bruce Currie and ALP’s Dave Kerrigan attended the candidate’s forum but are still to provide a written response although they have indicated they will provide one.

PHON’s Mark Higgins, and the Queensland Greens Norm Weston did not attend the recent candidates forum nor have they provided a written response, or indicated whether they intend to do so or not.

KAP are not running a candidate in Gregory however they have been asked for a response to RAPAD’s election plan and they acknowledged receipt of the document highlighting their support to some areas.

“If elected, these candidates are going to be working hand in hand with the mayors of Gregory, and it’s disappointing that some candidates and their parties, have made no attempt to provide us with information on how they will address our plan. We call upon those who have not done so, to do so before Saturday’s election” said Cr Chandler.

Central Western Queensland, in fact the whole of our State has lost a great Queenslander.

Butch Lenton, the Mayor of Winton Shire and a director of RAPAD passed away yesterday in Winton, the town that he was born in and the town he loved. Butch was a man’s man. He called a spade a spade and he adored Ros and his family.

When speaking of Winton and one of the shires many achievements he always remarked how good it would be for Western Queensland. A team player in local government, local footy and local politics.

On behalf of all Councils of the RAPAD area, all of the RAPAD staff and directors of RAPAD I pass on our sincere condolences to you Ros, your family and the Winton community.

Cr Rob Chandler, Chair RAPAD, Mayor, BRC.

Ends: Contact Cr Rob Chandler, 0427512314

I’m pleased to offer this summary wrap up of the Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board for 2017.

A collaborativealliance ofBarcaldine Regional Council, Barcoo Shire Council, Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, Boulia Shire Council, Diamantina Shire Council, Longreach Regional Council and Winton Shire Council hastaken out the award for water projects under $2 million at this year’s Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia, Queensland (IPWEAQ) Excellence Awards.

Theawards recognise councils and individuals who have demonstrated best practice and innovation in public works projects across Queensland.

The Outback Regional Water Alliance collected the award for its Regional Outback Water Quality Infrastructure Program.

Startup Weekend Outback Edition: A First for Remote Australia

Ideate. Validate. Pitch.These were three words of significance in Longreach when the global innovationStartUp movement became reality in Australia’s Outback when Startup WeekendOutback Edition [SWOE] was held at Longreach’s Old Airport Terminal.Thirty-five eager participants from as far as Birdsville, Tambo, Blackall and Ipswichattended the first night.

“Critical mass and diverse ideas being pitched are paramount to the success of aStartup Weekend, and we had both”, SWOE organising team member Kristine Arnoldproudly explained.

“Bringing new events to the Outback can be challenging,” said Mrs Arnold.“People like to know what they are before they give up their weekend. While therehave been 92 other Startup weekends in Australia, this is the first in a remote region”,said Mrs Arnold.

Advance Queensland funding, along with support from RedRidge and RAPADensured the success of the weekend.”The weekend kicked off with globally renowned USA based Startup Weekendfacilitator, Daniel Johnsen setting the scene before the SWOE participants wereinvited to pitch their ideas in 60 seconds. With great diversity in the group, theyoungest pitchers were 9 and 11 years old.

Nineteen pitches covering a variety of pain points (issues) were delivered and SWOEparticipants then voted on the ideas they thought most likely to get to minimum viableproduct (MVP).

“Next came the hard part”, said Mrs Arnold. “The hustle; negotiating with people tojoin their team and the start of the business journey for the weekend. Saturday wasmasterclasses from Daniel about the importance of validation, how to approachpeople and the lean business model canvas”.

“SWOE participants then headed out to athletics carnival, the main street and locallunch spots to validate their idea with the general public”.“What was also exciting was that visiting mentors from Mackay, Brisbane andIpswich volunteered their weekend to guide and advise the teams on pitchtechniques”, said Mrs Arnold. “Pitching practice was feverish until businessdevelopment tools-down at 3:30pm. Judges arrived and SWOE teams took a deepbreath before their final pitch”.

Vernon Meyer, Innovation Director, Qantas Group Innovation and Ventures and NeilMakepeace, CEO at GWI [formerly Glentworth] joined local ABC Chief of StaffNicole Bond as judges for the five final pitches.Websites and Facebook pages proudly displayed the MVP of each group andexcellent pitches explained the target demographics, income stream and validation ofidea.

“The pitches and ideas were on par with those that I have seen all over the world”stated SWOE facilitator, Mr Johnsen. “I look forward to facilitating another one inthe region before my time as Entrepreneur in Residence with RAPAD finishes nextJune”.

RJM Water Solutions with 11 year old Riley as CEO was the winning team with team‘Souvenear’ runner up.Startup Weekend started in July 2007 when founder Andrew Hyde got 80 peopletogether working on one topic in Boulder, Colorado in the USA. Ten years on andnow under the Techstars banner, over 2900 events to date have been held across 150countries. Startup Weekend Outback Edition was the 93rd Startup Weekend inAustralia.

http://www.facebook.com/outbackhubs/videos/114244845876636/

With a state election getting ever closer, the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD), is on the front foot and has put forward its10-point planto all major political parties.

The 10 regional priority points are:

• Growing business and community digital connections,
• Securing Essential Infrastructure to Support Economic Growth and Community Wellbeing,
• Helping Councils Manage Community Assets and Maintain Workforces,
• Protecting the Rural Economy,
• Growing Tourism to Diversify the Economy,
• Focusing on a Renewable Energy Future,
• Responding to the Economic and Personal Costs of Drought,
• Implementing Stock Route Management Reform,
• Securing Healthy Aged Living Services for our Seniors,
• Developing World Class Health Services for Rural Communities.

Representing an area close to one quarter of Queensland’s land mass, RAPAD said the 10 regional priority points are focused on stimulating the region’s economy, making the region more attractive for investment, lowering the costs of living and better able to attract and retain families for the region’s future.

“These 10 points are a mix of short, medium and long term priorities, said Cr Rob Chandler, Chair of RAPAD”.

“They are also reflective of extensive community consultation which has informed RAPAD’s strategic planning”.

Cr Chandler said the 10-point plan has been provided to all major parties, and their candidates where known.

“I’ve asked all parties to meet with RAPAD to advise us how they intend on addressing the issues raised”, said Cr Chandler.

“We are also looking for written feedback so we can make that feedback available for the wider public. That way everyone can read for themselves how the candidates and their parties are going to support the Central Western Queensland region”.

The data from the Remote Area Planning and Development (RAPAD) Board’s recent cluster fencing Expression Of Interest (EOI) has been analysed and if funded, when combined with current Round 1 and 2 fencing projects, would see:

• 1,000,000 sheep in central western Queensland;
• 2.2m ha fenced;
• 174 properties involved;
• $3.76 regional benefit per year for every $1 of Government expenditure; and
• $1.18 increase in gross margin every year for every $1 that a producer spends on CAPEX.

Andrew Perkins, Director at Williams Hall Chadwick, who is heading up the economic analysis of the program said, “at the beginning of the project 15 months ago we set the aspirational goal of after 10 years to have 1,000,000 sheep in the RAPAD QFPI region thanks to cluster fencing. Looking at the numbers with round 1 and 2, and if the EOI is successful it has the potential to allow sheep numbers to expand to 1,000,000 without further fencing that will occur over the remainder of that 10 year period”.

Mr Perkins continued, “I have calculated a new metric based on the recent EOI data and for every $1 the property owner contributes to the cluster fence, they get an increased Gross Margin of $1.49 per year”.

“In other words, payback in 1 year. It seems unreal but that is the way the numbers come out. If a producer spent $105,000 on their contribution to fencing they would see an increased gross margin of $157,000. This is true regional economic development”.

This data is supported by the recent Regional Australia Institute report which highlighted bringing back the sheep as one of six priority areas for RAPAD and the region.

The RAI report indicated cluster fencing could provide, “potential regional economic growth to $38.8m annually through increased gross margin from sheep production, stimulating jobs for an additional 158 people in the industry”.

Mr Perkins recently spent several days in the region meeting with a number of the RAPAD clusters and a key theme from all meetings was that fences were delivering control, confidence and investment.

“As the fencing projects are nearing completion cluster members felt they were gaining financial and environmental control of their properties and operations and this control gave them confidence to look to the future and invest in hiring more staff and providing jobs and additional infrastructure. This is almost the opposite to what producers would probably traditionally be thinking after five years of drought and looking towards what could be another dry summer”, Mr Perkins said.

Cr Rob Chandler Chair of RAPAD agreed with these sentiments. “People keep coming up and telling me we know that next year we will be fenced and we will have stopped everything from the outside and we can just work on what is inside. To me confidence is the return landholders are currently getting, confidence about their futures from the achievement of getting fences in place. Producers getting control back will be a massive thing”.

Regarding the recent RAPAD cluster fencing, EOI applications were received from:

• 10 clusters of 50 properties wanting to fence 1,054km to protect 613,138 ha;
• $3m funding required from Government matched by $5.2m private investment;
• Expected sheep numbers growth of 268,483, from 70,249 to 338 732;
• Expected net increase in jobs of 53, from 23 to 76; and
• Expected increase in sheep gross margin of $10.2m, from $1.5m to $11.7m.

Cr Chandler continued, “the board made the commitment to approach Government asking for an additional $5m for cluster fencing in the region and we presented the Premier with this request when she visited Ilfracombe earlier this year. This EOI data demonstrates to Government the ongoing desire and economic return more funding will bring to our region”

“This funding is about more than a fence, this is regional economic development. It’s about creating jobs in the region, empowering people and giving them back control of their time, finances and wellbeing and delivering the most significant industry infrastructure for decades”, Cr Chandler continued.

Reinforced by the findings of the RAI report, RAPAD continues to advocate to the Queensland and Australian Governments for the progression of strategic cluster fencing in the local government areas of Barcaldine, Longreach, Blackall-Tambo, Winton, Barcoo, Boulia, Richmond, McKinlay and Flinders shires.

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

For more information please contact:

Andrew Perkins, Director,

Williams Hall Chadwick, 0411 266 843

Rob Chandler, Chair, RAPAD 0427 512 314

David Arnold, CEO, RAPAD 0428 583 301

In a recently completed report undertaken by the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), on behalf of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD), modeling suggests that up to 37.5% of jobs within the Central Western Qld RAPAD region are at risk due to digital disruption.

Despite this, the RAI modeling indicates through focusing on key strategic priorities and a commitment to a long-term vision, the region has the potential to deliver an annual output of $1.5 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) by 2031.

“While digital disruption is the new norm, the challenge for the region will be how we adapt and race ahead with technology, rather than against it”, said RAPAD CEO, David Arnold.

“The digital revolution will be a catalyst for this disruption, and the job market of 2031 is likely to be very different to what we see now”, said Mr Arnold.

“In particular, low skilled jobs and even some high skilled but routine jobs are likely to disappear, while new jobs requiring new skills are likely to be created”.

“RAPAD, businesses, governments, the entire community, need to be at the forefront of fostering the environment that supports and facilitates the creation of, and up-skilling for these jobs over the decades to come”, said Mr Arnold.

The Pathfinder Report, funded by Queensland Governments Department of State Development, identifies six priority areas that the RAPAD board can focus its efforts on, to help bring this economic potential to fruition.

“While RAI investigated six priority areas, these are by no means the only areas that councils, communities, businesses or RAPAD should pursue going into the future”, said Mr Arnold.

Informed by the Pathfinders preceding Future Factors Report, community consultation undertaken by Professor John Cole in 2016 and RAPADs recently completed digital strategy and its associated community consultation, the six areas were consensually agreed on by RAPADs seven mayors. Those six areas represent a broad and regionally significant range of focus areas.

The report outlines the opportunities, challenges, actions and payoffs for these six priorities and which will help grow the region to 2031. The six priorities are:

 Bringing back the sheep;

 Tourism growth;

 Infrastructure connections;

 Energy and water security;

 Healthy aged care living, and;

 Improved telecommunications.

Not surprisingly the report identifies that the region’s industry strengths of agriculture, in particular beef and sheep production, will be a major driver of future growth.

RAI Pathfinder Project leader, Dr Leonie Pearson said, “Increasing demand from Asian markets for clean, green meat coupled with strong brand recognition of Northern Australia’s high quality produce puts the RAPAD region in a strong position. Strategies to increase sheep meat and wool production to supply international markets for example, will be an important priority however agriculture alone will not deliver the region’s full potential”.

The report indicates that collectively, industries including tourism, public services (education, health, and public administration), construction and IT will contribute the biggest share to future economic growth.

Dr Pearson said, “up-skilling and developing greater capacity across these industries, for example in tourism, health and digital skills, will be key to these industries reaching their full potential”.

The report identifies that in both 2008 and 2013, the average productivity of the RAPAD region was more than 28 per cent higher than the Australian average. Traditionally low levels of unemployment and high specialisations in agriculture, wholesale, civil engineering construction and recreation services jobs have formed the basis for a healthy labour force. The RAPAD region also has a higher share of public sector jobs compared to the rest of the state. These labour force characteristics are key competitive advantages for the region, and building on them will be vital in the face of new challenges.

“Enhancing the capability and capacity of the region will help to build on its already highly productive workforce”, said Dr Pearson.

Other challenges, such as a growing older population will require the region to address issues such as the location of age-specific services, while climate change will continue to have disproportionate effects on the RAPAD region, which is dependent on industries such as agriculture. “Working proactively to mitigate these challenges and building on the region’s strengths will be crucial,” said Dr Pearson.

“RAPAD is currently undertaking its own three yearly strategic planning and this report and others recently received, will inform the board of RAPADs future strategic focus areas”, said Mr Arnold.

The report can be found here and on the RAI website here.

Ends:

David Arnold, CEO, RAPAD, 0428583301; Cr Rob Chandler, Chair, RAPAD, 0427512314. Dr Leonie Pearson, Leader, Major Research Projects, RAI, 02 62603733,

leonie.pearson@regionalaustralia.org.au

12 July 2018

A recent renewable energy forum convened by the Central West Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) saw its vision to generate Queensland’s electricity needs, and bring transformative benefit to the region, endorsed by all in attendance.

The forum, led by Professor Ross Garnaut AC, renowned economist and renewable energy expert, saw a small number of leading renewable energy companies, local and State Government representatives including Minister Anthony Lynham, Minister for National Resources, Mines and Energy come together to discuss how to further RAPAD’s renewable energy vision.

Cr Rob Chandler, RAPAD Chair, Barcaldine Regional Council Mayor and forum attendee said, “it was fantastic as it allowed us to not only gain endorsem*nt from people like Professor Garnaut, but from all those in the room, that we have a strategic advantage and it van be done. The forum attendees gave RAPAD their full support our vision was worth pursuing”.

Cr Ed Warren, RAPAD Director and Longreach Regional Council Mayor who also attended concurred, “Our region gets 300+ sun days a year and we have considerable geothermal reserves. We want to convert this to not only provide clean, stable and reliable power for the state, but also provide jobs in our communities and substantial to the state budget.”

In 2017 RAPAD commission the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) to undertake research on its behalf, to identify key areas of potential economic growth, and renewable energy was one of those areas.

In the report RAI identified the community service obligation (CSO) paid to the RAPAD region was expected to be $384m between 2018 and 2031.

The report went on to say if the RAPAD region met the States renewable energy target of 50%, with residential and small business self consuming energy produced rather than feeding it back into the grid it stands to generate a saving of more than $192m in forgone CSO subsidy payments out to 2031.

Regarding challenges Cr Chandler stated, “of course there will be some challenges but everyone felt not only do we have an enormous resource in the region but we have a genuine opportunity to create reliable cheap energy, create demand, create jobs, and create transformative change. And that’s what it’s really all about, bringing people and jobs into the region.”

“Currently over $100m has been invested in renewable in our region which is a fantastic achievement but we want to broaden the model and use the region’s natural advantages to not only provide green energy for the grid, but to also make us competitive as a location for energy intensive industries, use it to attract energy intensive industries into the region”, said Cr Chandler.

Professor Ross Garnaut AC is scheduled to be in the RAPAD region in April to speak to the RAPAD Board and RAPAD has meetings planned with key Queensland Government departments in late March who have indicated their willingness to support RAPAD in taking the next step.

“it’s exciting times ahead”, said Cr Chandler

Ends

RAPAD Launches Regional Digital Strategy: Smart Central Western Queensland: A Digitally Enabled Community Strategic Plan 11 July 2017

To diversify the economy of the Central Western Qld region, increase liveability, strengthen the social fabric of the community and reverse depopulation, the Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) have produced the: Smart Central Western Queensland: A Digitally Enabled Community Strategic Plan

The Smart Central West Digital Strategy makes 42 recommendations, some of which the board has already commenced planning and implementing.

“While the digital environment has been an area RAPAD has focused on for many years, the development of this strategy raises the bar for RAPAD in its approach to facilitating and supporting economic growth in the region through the digital medium”, said Cr Bruce Scott, Chair of RAPADs Digital Reference Group.

“The Smart Central West Digital Strategy articulates a comprehensive but pragmatic plan to seize the region’s opportunities, mitigate the weaknesses, emphasise the strengths and avoid the threats”.

“This is a far reaching, and in parts, a challenging, strategy”, said Cr Scott, “and we need to harness the efforts of the entire region to ensure we move forward into the digital age”.

“The strategy prioritises initiatives in five focus areas currently articulated in RAPADs strategic plan”.

Cr Scott said that RAPAD had received excellent support from a range of stakeholders throughout the development of this strategy, along with RAPADs whole approach to this digital focus area.

“The Department of Science, Information Technology and Innovation (DSITI) and the Department of State Development (DSD) have been highly supportive together with the Local Government Association of Qld (LGAQ) ”, said Cr Scott.

“No matter who we have asked from the academic, private or public sectors, everyone has offered support”, said Cr Scott.

Mr David Arnold, CEO of RAPAD said that the April 2017 Transitioning Regional Economies Initial Report released by the Productivity Commission highlights that remote and very remote regions tend to have relatively low adaptive capacity.

“Digital enablement is one tool to enhance a regions adaptive capability. The strategy itself focuses on the economic development of the region, and the advancement of those five focus areas, using digital technology as an enabler to allow the region to access the benefits at a lower cost, to ensure that a broader market can be reached and to enable better collaboration between the region, its councils, and its business sector”.

“In many cases the projects outlined in the Smart Central West Digital Strategy have both digital and non-digital components. The non-digital components recognise that, to ensure success, an increase in the demand created by digital means must be met by an increase in supply”.

“Elements within this strategy are designed to complement the activity of State and Federal Government’s policy goals and objectives. The RAPAD approach is more localised based on direct community, business and visitor consultation”.

“All relevant social and economic strategies, plans and policies across all layers of government and industry bodies have been reviewed as part of the strategy development. The activities within this document offer greater value in a shorter timescale with the agility of local control. Moreover, this approach is based on the principles of the sharing economy as it seeks to share large amounts of data to underpin economic growth in the region”, said Mr Arnold.

In 2016 the board engaged consultants Glentworth to undertake the consultation and development of the strategy and in late 2016 they conducted community round-tables in Blackall, Barcaldine, Longreach, Stonehenge, Jundah and Winton. In addition, phone conferences were held with participants from Diamantina and Boulia Shires. While in the region Glentworth, facilitated by RAPAD, made a particular effort to speak to as many people as possible, including both tourists and locals. Glentworth also visited tourist drawcards to test the experience.

Mr Arnold said, “Glentworth spoke to over 100 people during the consultation period and in addition they undertook broad consultation with a number of people outside the region”.

Glentworth Executive Chairman Neil Glentworth said the strategy will ensure that the Central West region of Queensland can take maximum advantage of the rapidly changing economy.

“The fortitude and resilience of the region is truly inspiring. For Glentworth, it has been an immense privilege to support the digital journey.

“It is a ‘sleeves rolled up’ approach that, if fully implemented, will help all members of the community prosper socially and economically”, said Mr Glentworth.

The Smart Central West Digital Strategy was funded by RAPAD with support from the Local Government Association of Qld, and Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services.

The Smart Central Western Queensland: A Digitally Enabled Community Strategic Plan and community consultation report can be found at http://bit.ly/RAPADSmartCentralWestDigitalStrategy

Small Business and Individuals Financial Counsellor to cease on 30 June 2017

The Small Business and Individuals Financial Counsellor (SBIFC) servicing the Central Western Qld region will be ceasing on 30 June 2017.

Over its 16mth term the service provided financial counselling support to approximately 45 clients across 14 Central West towns.

David Arnold, CEO of RAPAD, who administers the SBIFC service, said the SBIFC role was an excellent initiative originating from the Central Western Rural Wellness Network, which is a multi-stakeholder group representative of the social, financial, and well-being stakeholders in the Central West region.

“At a time of severe drought the Wellness Network identified the need for the service, and with everyone’s input, and support from Minister Cameron Dick, the SBIFC position came to fruition back in early 2016”, said Mr Arnold.

The SBIFC program has been funded by Queensland Government’s Department of Health on a one off non-recurrent basis from 1 May 2016 to 30 June 2017 however with additional funding provided by RAPAD, the program started in mid March 2016. The Royal Flying Doctor Service are also strong supporters working with RAPAD in its administration.

“Given the continuing drought and its impacts on small business, RAPAD advocated to Government earlier in 2017, and we were hoping that funding may have been allocated in the recent State budget to keep the role going, however this was not the case”, said Mr Arnold.

Russell Lowry, who filled the SBIFC role wont be lost from the region, as he has gained full time employment with the Longreach Regional Council (LRC).

“Russell has been managing the exit of clients over these last few weeks in conjunction with his new role with LRC, and for this I’m grateful to both him and LRC CEO, Ian Bodill, said Mr Arnold. Russell could have easily just moved on upon his resignation but his dedication ensured he continued on in a part time capacity working weekends and after hours so clients can be exited in an appropriate manner”, said Mr Arnold.

On behalf of the Board and many others who supported the role, I’d like to thank the State Government and Minister Dick for the funding support”, said Mr Arnold.

The SBIFC program provided free assistance to Central West Queensland non-rural small business owners and individuals, who were suffering from financial hardship, to allow them to manage the challenges of industry change, adjustment and sustainability as the result of the current drought and on-going adverse economic conditions.

Contact: David Arnold – 0428583301

State Government Drought Funding Provides A Welcome Boost For Central West Communities

Funding provided by the Queensland State Governments Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services, through their 2017 drought support package is supporting 131 events and activities, as well as drought affected people in need, throughout the seven council regions of Central Western Qld.

The Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) successfully applied for the funding at the start of 2017, and this funding was then distributed to its member councils.

$82500.00 was provided to each of the seven Central Western Qld councils which is for the delivery of a range of local community events and activities that contribute to connectedness, social well-being and increase access to support services. Three councils received an additional $27500.00 each, under the Flexible Financial Hardship component of the program.

David Arnold, CEO of RAPAD, said that councils are the best placed to understand the needs of their local communities, and they also have the mechanisms in place to fairly assess and allocate funds to local groups.

“As a requirement of the funding guidelines, all councils had to submit their proposed activities in March. I’m pleased to report, that thanks to this State Government funding, a range of activities are already occurring while all others are well into their planning stage”, said Mr Arnold.

Submission On the Draft Great Artesian Basin & Other Regional Aquifers (GABORA) Water Plan and the Draft GABORA Water Management Protocol.

In response to the QueenslandGovernments call for submissions regarding the Draft Great Artesian Basin & Other Regional Aquifers (GABORA) Water Plan and the Draft GABORA Water Management Protocol, the Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) has raised a range of matters which it considers important in regulatory and planning frameworks, to ensure the long term sustainable management of the Great Artesian Basin and its associated aquifers.

In summary the RAPAD Board:

• Seeks clarification from the Queensland Government on how the GABORA Water Plan can provide a framework for sustainably managing water and the taking of water in the GABORA plan area when:
  • the take of water by the resources sector is managed independently of the GABORA Water Plan, and when,
  • the take of water by the CSG and mining industries is not considered in the overall water balance for the GABORA aquifers across the State,
• Is concerned that a self-regulatory approach to the monitoring of water quality in the GABORA Water Plan may increase the risk of chemical and heavy metals contamination or pollution of the water supplies for towns as well as primary producers, stock & domestic supplies in the Central West and surrounding regions,
• Expresses its concern at the limited volume of General Reserve unallocated water that may be potentially available to primary production enterprises – either extensive or intensive in the Central Western Qld region,
• Holds a strong view that uncontrolled flows from GAB bores do need to be addressed, and an ongoing program to cap the flow of these bores does need to continue,
• Contends that a complete understanding of the volume of water that is extracted from the GABORA aquifers in each water year is essential for maintaining the GABORA as a secure source of water for future generations, and
• Supports the scope of the GABORA Water Plan being expanded to include the Betts Creek Beds and the Winton Mackunda Formation.

Cr Rob Chandler, Chairman of RAPAD says; “The rural townspeople, the commercial businesses and the primary producers who live in the Central Western Qld Queensland greatly depend on water from the GAB for their livelihood”. “

Many of the region’s townships, industry within these towns and primary producers are totally dependent on their ability to access GAB water for their domestic, industrial and livestock water supplies”

RAPAD Releases EOI To Capture Continued Fencing Demand In The Region

The Central Western Queensland Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is now calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI’s) from eligible landholders and groups who are seeking support to build strategic cluster fences and or linking existing exclusion/cluster fences.

RAPAD is advocating to the Queensland and Australian Governments for the progression of strategic cluster fencing in the local government areas of Barcaldine, Longreach, Blackall-Tambo, Winton, Barcoo, Boulia, Richmond, McKinlay and Flinders shires.

This EOI process is to demonstrate to Government the ongoing desire and need for exclusion fencing in our region.

Cr Rob Chandler, RAPAD Chair said, “the board made the commitment to approach Government asking for an additional $5m for cluster fencing in the region and we presented the Premier with this request when she visited Ilfracombe earlier this year.

This EOI process aims to demonstrate to Government the ongoing desire and need for exclusion fencing in our region”.

Cr Chandler continued, “through this EOI we are also keen to hear from producers who are seeking to link existing exclusion/cluster fences either privately or publicly funded. There has been a lot of anecdotal discussion and ideas around linking existing exclusion fences and we are keen to hear more from producers on this.”

“I need to be clear, this is an EOI only, and producers who provide a submission aren’t guaranteed funding or support but we remain hopeful that more funds do flow to the project. I stress this information collection is important”, said Cr Chandler.

“This EOI will build on the success of the Round 1 & 2 cluster fencing projects being delivered by RAPAD currently which will see:

• Increase in sheep numbers from 373 358 to and expected 735 966, an increase of 362,608;
• Increase in wages directly generated from shearing and crutching to grow from $4.48m to $8.83m, an increase of $4.3m;
• Net increase in jobs from 107 to 177, an increase of 70;
• Increase in regional gross margin from $21.6m to $35.2m, an increase of $13.6m;
• Total annual regional benefit from this funding is $22.7m, that is a $3.28 per year every year is being delivered to the region from every $1 government has spent on cluster fencing in the region”.

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

For more information please contact

Rob Chandler RAPAD Chair 0427 512 314
David Arnold RAPAD CEO 0428 583 301

Ends.

Communities from 16 outback towns will benefit from cleaner water following a successful water main cleaning project by the Outback Regional Water Alliance (ORWA).

Initiated by ORWA – a seven-council alliance – the project received financial support from the Queensland Water Regional Alliances Program (QWRAP), funded by the Department of Energy and Water Supply (DEWS). ORWA Chair and Longreach Mayor Cr Ed Warren said this project demonstrated the Alliance’s commitment to working collectively to achieve better outcomes and value for money on water and sewerage projects in Central Western Queensland.

“This project, like all of those undertaken through the Alliance, has provided both financial savings and better water services for the communities of our region,” Cr Ed Warren said.

“We are grateful for the support of Minister Bailey and the Department of Energy and Water Supply, and hope to continue this valuable partnership to strengthen services across the region.”
Barcaldine Mayor Cr Rob Chandler agreed the collaboration of multiple organisations was proving successful.

“The partnership approach between councils, the Queensland Government, LGAQ and qldwater is benefitting communities in the region through projects like this,” Cr Chandler said.
“The ORWA is helping us to do things cheaper while continuing to provide high quality water to the Outback.”

From early November 2016 to the end of January 2017 a skilled contractor cleaned over 200km of potable water mains within six of the seven member councils. Councils that benefited from this project include Barcaldine Regional Council, Barcoo Shire Council, Boulia Shire Council, Diamantina Shire Council, Longreach Regional Council, and Winton Shire Council. Through a shared procurement approach, the ORWA member councils saved around $75,000, and along with QWRAP funding of $32,500, resulted in a significant reduction to each council with the total project value at $266,000.

Several of the reticulation systems had considerable build-up of silt and debris, and removing this material from the pipes has provided a significant improvement in water quality. During the process water loss was minimised by using air scouring, rather than traditional mains flushing. This method achieved a higher standard of cleaning with less water wastage.

ENDS

For more information contact Neil Stiles (GBA) ORWA Regional Coordinator 4651 2177

Jobs Delivered Already From The RAPAD Cluster FencingProgram With More To Come

Apart from providing jobs for contractors, landholders and their employees, RAPAD cluster fencing has already delivered 6 new jobs to the regions unemployed with plenty more to come according to General Manager of RAPAD Employment Services Qld (RESQ), Tony Rayner, and Andrew Perkins, economist and Director from Williams Hall Chadwick. Tony said; “So far 6 job seekers have gained employment since we started the fencing program this year, with all of them involved in exclusion fencing construction. Just recently one of the job seekers from the group, who has been fencing on Rotherfield outside Ilfracombe, has secured full time employment with a transport company, and all of the others have casual paid fencing work.”

“The wild dog fencing experience has provided valuable applied training in a lifelong skill for a growth sector”.

“The job seekers are taught fencing techniques under the supervision of an experienced fencing contractor”, said Tony.

“We usually have teams of 3 to 4 job seekers working on fence construction, plus the supervisor, and hours are normally 7.00am to 3.00pm, but this varies on each job. We will be moving to full days shortly to increase the efficiency of time on each job due to the increased demand. RESQ has assisted five properties with support in building wild dog exclusion fencing totalling 35kms. Currently RESQ has 10 cluster groups requesting fencing assistance so we hope more jobs are just around the corner”.

Andrew Perkins is similarly bullish about jobs growth back in the region as a result of cluster fencing.

Mr Perkins has been engaged by RAPAD to undertake the projects monitoring and evaluation plan. The plan aims to capture a broad range of economic, environmental and social data during this process and this monitoring and evaluation will not only be limited to successful clusters, but will include communities from across the central west.

Mr Perkins said the initial figures look promising.

“The impact of cluster fencing will enable greater enterprise choice for primary producers, many of whom have had to go out of sheep and wool production due to wild dog predation. I calculate that the potential increase in sheep numbers in the region will create an extra 45 full time equivalents employed in the region. This is worth approximately $2.5m per annum without further multipliers”.

“Furthermore, for every job created on a property there will be others employed in service and related regional industries. I have estimated an additional service related job created for
every direct job. Therefore the total impact on employment is estimated at 90 full time equivalents. The current ratio of total regional population to employed persons is approximately 2, therefore this means that an increase in jobs of 90 FTE’s has the potential to increase regional population by approximately 180 persons. Increased jobs in the region will flow into increased demand for accommodation, education and health in the regions.”

“Increased annual gross value of production in the region is estimated at $13m due to increased sheep numbers and reduced deaths from predation. Of this gross value the increased gross margin in the region is estimated at $9.5m, which means stronger regional enterprises. The direct Government contribution to the RAPAD cluster fencing program is $4.85m. This catalyst project will create direct benefits of an increase in the value of production and increased local spend on labour estimated at $16.3m per annum.”

“For every $1 of government spending up front there is a projected $3.35 annual benefit to the region.”

The long term goal is for funding to be the catalyst for growing jobs and achieving significant improvement in the profitability of regional businesses, both rural and non-rural, through the demonstration of the economic, social and environmental benefit of cluster fencing. RAPAD Employment Services Queensland will contribute community labour for fence construction where support criteria based on community benefit are satisfied. RESQ, which delivers the Australian Governments Community Development Program, has funding which can provide labour, supervision and some equipment for fence construction. The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australia Government Agricultural competitiveness white paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

For more information please contact
Tony Rayner, General Manager RESQ, 0427 615 357
Andrew Perkins, Director, Williams Hall Chadwick 0411 266 843
David Arnold, CEO, RAPAD 0428 583 301

Ends.

The RAPAD Board have unanimously supported the recommendations of the independent technical committee, and approved funding to seven clusters across the Central and North West designated priority one areas. The seven successful clusters are Way out West, Barcoo South, Southern Dangaraga Road, Arrilalah, Stamford, Strathdarr with Wild Horse cluster to be part funded.
The clusters are made up of:

• 31 producers;
• Will fence 794km and protect 396 473 ha from wild dogs;
• Will see a $6.43m private contribution or a 293% ROI for government;
• Will see sheep numbers grow from 103 552 to an expected 239 129, an expected
• increase of 135 578;
• Will generate an expected $2.87m in direct shearing, crutching and lamb marking wages per annum from the new expected total sheep numbers.

Scott Counsell, part of the successful Southern Dangaraga Road Cluster, was grateful for the funding. “This country has the capacity to maintain 50 000 sheep, yet our current flock numbers of our cluster are around 6 000. We have a long history in breeding and running sheep and have maintained wool production since 1948. However since 2006 sheep have seen a steady decline with an exponential increase in dog activity.”
Scott continued “average lambing percentages for all of us in the cluster prior to 2006 were consistently above 60%, averaging 75-85%. Post 2006 numbers have reduced to an average of 30% due to dogs. The result of this fence being built will not only allow us to increase our sheep numbers, we are keen to bring around 34 000 sheep back, but it will also mean we would be employing extra 2 permanent staff and providing easily a month of shearing for 13 people. I honestly can’t wait to get sheep back home tucked in behind our fence.” Duncan Emmott, part of the successful Arrilalah Cluster was similarly thankful to be funded. “In 2006 our cluster ran 41 000 sheep with an average lambing percentage of 75%. In 2017 we have a combined total sheep number of 5 000 and are averaging 25% lambing. We simply had no option, we could not run sheep without an exclusion fence. Once fenced our cluster is confident of bringing back 33 000 head of sheep bringing nearly $400 000 in wages directly back into our local communities.”
“Unfortunately we were not able to fund all applicants”, said Cr Rob Chandler, Chair of RAPAD.

“For those who missed out please know the Board will be approaching the State Government and member for Gregory, Lachlan Millar and Vaughan Johnson, the Central Western Queensland Fencing Commissioner, to determine if any additional funding is available for those that missed out, and for others who may wish to fence”. Cr Chandler continued to say the QFPI RAPAD cluster fencing round 1 and 2 projects will:

• Result in 23 clusters forming, equalling 113 individual properties and 2563km of fencing, enabling 1,257,695 ha to be protected from wild dogs;
• Realise a private contribution of $17+m from cluster applicants;
• Provide an expected 348 6180 additional sheep into the region and grow sheep numbers to an expected 714,206;
• Generate an expected $8.57m in direct shearing, crutching and lamb marking wages per annum from the new expected total sheep numbers;
• Represents approximately a 35% public and 65% private investment, based on the maximum funding of $2700 per km and on average a vermin proof exclusion fence costs approx. $7000 per km

The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.

For more information please contact
Rob Chandler RAPAD Chair 0427 512 314
David Arnold RAPAD CEO 0428 583 301
Scott Counsell South Dangaraga Road Cluster 0427 512 384
Duncan Emmott Arrilalah Cluster 0428582175

Ends.