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Visa information session
We hosted a visa information session with 20 businesses to hear the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs on visa arrangements and the proposed statewide Designated Area Migration Agreement. The workshop explored workforce accommodation challenges, with specialist immigration company MABIS attending to explain how it works directly with businesses to identify candidates from the Philippines and assist with sourcing accommodation.
Discussions are also underway around the potential for MABIS and employers to co-fund workforce accommodation development, which could provide a new way to address accommodation barriers for international workers. Mackay’s existing Philippine community would also support these workers relocating to the region.
Southern Asia Carbon Limited potential processing plant
Australian-owned Southern Asia Carbon Limited is investigating the establishment of a plant fibre processing facility in the region, following a recent visit hosted by RDA GW. The company is entering non-disclosure agreements with local businesses as it explores opportunities to process locally available materials such as bagasse. Its current aspiration is to establish a 250-tonne-per-day pilot plant before potentially scaling to 2,500 tonnes per day. They have their own technology for converting plant fibre into products, including pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, with international agreements already in place and opportunities for domestic supply also being considered.
Collinsville gas-fired power plant enquiry
A potential gas-fired power plant in Collinsville is being investigated, with investors, developers and key stakeholders recently meeting to discuss the opportunity. Facilitated by RDA GW, the discussions included Bowen Collinsville Enterprise and Queensland Government agencies, and explored the use of coal seam waste gas alongside existing gas pipeline capacity, electricity infrastructure and the local weir for water cooling.
Data centre assessment
An assessment is underway to determine whether the Greater Whitsundays region requires a data centre and, if so, where it could best be located. The joint project between RDA Greater Whitsundays and GW3 forms part of a broader discussion around Australia's future data centre needs, suitable locations and operational requirements such as water cooling. A company has been commissioned to undertake demand analysis with local businesses, with a draft report potentially available for distribution in August.
Regional Projects update
Commercial developers, project proponents and councils provided the RDA GW board with an update on significant projects underway across the region. This annual update helps us to better understand upcoming opportunities, identify where support or advocacy may be required and hear directly from proponents about priorities for the next 12 months. Councils also provided updates on key infrastructure priorities and future needs.
Developing Northern Australia Conference
The Developing Northern Australia Conference will bring together key stakeholders in Alice Springs this August, with RDA Greater Whitsundays attending in its role as host of the RDA Northern Alliance. RDA is coordinating a booth at the conference and will meet with organisations from across Northern Australia to share knowledge, discuss the ongoing role of RDAs and explore opportunities to strengthen regional development.
Northern Australia advisory group appointment
Our Deputy Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris has been appointed to the Northern Australian Ministry Advisory Group, creating direct RDA representation on the body for the first time. The advisory group provides advice to the Northern Australian Council on policy supporting Northern Australia and creates a new opportunity to advocate for Greater Whitsundays priorities.
Quarterly Ministerial update
Quarterly meetings with State Government ministers continue to provide an opportunity to advocate for Greater Whitsundays priorities and strengthen collaboration across all levels of government. Discussions with David Crisafulli (Queensland Premier), Dale Last MP (Minister for Regional and Rural Development) and Wayde Chiesa MP (representative for Hinchinbrook) focused on what is and isn't working from a regional perspective, along with opportunities to better align Commonwealth and State programs.
Election advocacy starting now
Meetings with local State and Federal representatives are commencing as advocacy work begins ahead of the 2028 election cycle. Road infrastructure remains a key focus, particularly the Port Access Road.
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