Mayor Andrew Willcox said that the development of an Economic Development Strategy will provide a platform to strengthen the local economy and ensure the Whitsunday Region is well placed for a sustainable future.

“The Strategy will determine our vision for growth and allow Council to reposition its priorities in relation to economic development; we need to determine the most effective use of Council funds in this area and achieve outcomes that are positive for the whole region,” Mayor Willcox said.

“We are so fortunate to have a diverse economy driven by the agriculture, construction, mining and tourism industries, but it’s no secret that many local businesses and towns in our region have been struggling for some time,” he said.

“With the recent separation of Tourism & Economic Development from the former Whitsundays Marketing & Development, Council recognises the need to take the lead and work with industry and government partners that can help us to advocate and deliver on the priorities that we identify in the new strategy.

“Economic development is all about community wellbeing and knowing what the best opportunities are for our region; I’m confident we have a positive future ahead of us.”