Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water

🔍Do you know your lefts and rights when it comes to river banks? Our new cohort of water officers do! We held an induction day in the Upper Condamine recently where, as well as introducing some of the key aspects of water resource management in practice, senior team members made sure our fresh recruits' water trivia knowledge was up to scratch. Our new water officers also visited the region's water infrastructure and had the opportunity to hear directly from local landholders about their businesses and how they use water. Also in attendance, local good boi 'Lucky', who modelled the importance of posing perfectly in pics for social media content. A warm welcome to our new team members - armed with water trivia and on-the-job training from some of the best in the biz, we know you'll go far!

Ekka ready and we're here all week! 💧🛠️🎡 Swing by our stand in the Queensland Government precinct to chat with our team about the department's work, learn how you can be more waterwise and pick up a Queensland-manufactured drinking choccy. See you soon!

Our Regional Engagement team recently played host to a pivotal roundtable discussion in Longreach, which brought together key stakeholders and representatives from seven approved training providers to discuss skill development opportunities in the Central Western Queensland region. The event was a joint effort with the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training and the Queensland Department of Education. The roundtable was a crucial step in progressing the Rural and Remote Pilot Project, an initiative aimed at enhancing access to high-quality, face-to-face training for residents in rural and remote areas of Central Western Queensland. The program places a special emphasis on inclusivity, focusing on people with disabilities and those from diverse multicultural backgrounds. Participants engaged in discussions about overcoming barriers to training, tailoring educational approaches to meet community needs, and ensuring meaningful engagement with local employers and stakeholders. Training providers presented on the programs they offer across Western Queensland. Key topics of the day included strategies for increasing enrolments, delivering accessible and culturally sensitive training, and establishing clear metrics for evaluating program success. The diverse group of attendees underscored the importance of a coordinated, community-driven approach to education and workforce development in these regions. As the Rural and Remote Pilot Project moves forward, the insights and partnerships cultivated at this roundtable will play a critical role in shaping the future of training and employment opportunities for Queenslanders living in rural and remote areas. This collaboration continues to build on the government's commitment to creating pathways for sustainable economic growth and improved quality of life for all Queenslanders - and we're proud of our team's small part in delivering on that!

Congratulations to our Director-General Linda Dobe who presented at Weld Australia's National Manufacturing Summit in Brisbane last week. Our Department is delivering a range of programs and funding help to give Queensland's amazing manufacturers a leg-up in the renewables space. Manufacturing Queensland ARM Hub (Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing) Electrical Trades Union of Australia

Regional Development staff recently supported RDA Tropical North with their “State of the Regions Roadshow” in a 4-day tour through Croydon, Etheridge, Tablelands, Mareeba, Cairns, and Cassowary Coast local government areas. The key presenter was Katrina Paterson from Economy Informed Decisions who shared statistical insights on local government areas with regional councils and the community. Attendees learned about population growth and rising gross regional product driving their regional economies over the past three years. Attendance was high and matters of keen interest included changes in population statistics relating to housing, disability, and age. Other speakers included Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the Office of Northern Australia, AusIndustry, the federal office of Home Affairs and our own Regional Development team’s Ian McKirdy. 📷 Cassowary Coast Regional Council with presenters.

☀️ Cracking start to the day at the National Manufacturing Summit, hosted by Weld Australia and The Australia Institute's Centre for Future Work! Our Director-General Linda Dobe presented to attendees this morning, sharing Queensland’s experience in renewable energy, including how we’re working to support local manufacturers supplying renewables and to prepare for a low emissions and net zero future. Thanks to all who came along. We’re pleased to have sponsored this important industry summit, which brought together thought leaders from both the manufacturing and energy sectors to talk about Australia's transition to a sustainable future.

Our Regional Development team are proud to have played a part in developing this important plan, which will help shape the future of the Far North of our state. Congrats to all involved!

Our Regional Engagement team recently partnered with Southern Downs Regional Council to deliver the Southern Downs Tourism Roundtable. The event was aimed at supporting regional development through collaborative actions that will drive sustainable growth in the region’s tourism sector. The roundtable brought together local tourism operators, educational institutions, and government bodies to create a shared vision for the future. The group identified key opportunities, discussed new product development, and laid the groundwork for strategic tourism development. As Council look towards the 2032 Olympics and beyond, the focus remains on long-term sustainability, regional diversification, and inclusive community engagement. The insights gathered will inform continued efforts to leverage their natural assets, capitalise on available opportunities and maximise the region’s economic and social potential. This collaboration continues to build on our department’s commitment to holistic regional development and amplifying the voice of regional communities to facilitate impactful policy outcomes and build a vibrant and resilient future for the Southern Downs. 🏞️🌿

Last week, our Regional Engagement staff delivered the third Gold Coast Community Forum at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, Carrara. The Forum brings together community representatives and senior Queensland Government officers to discuss the things that matter most to Gold Coast residents. Protecting the environment was the topic of the day, and a productive morning was spent discussing the current challenges and how we can ensure our waterways, green spaces, biodiversity corridors, and natural habitat are protected and enhanced for years to come. Great work team and thanks to all who contributed!

Celebrating NAIDOC week 2024! 🔥 This year's theme is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud, which honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations communities and cultures. We are proud of our department's contributions to recognising and celebrating First Nations people and cultures across our state, whether we're engaging with traditional owners to manage water resources, connecting with the next generation of manufacturers or supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led initiatives in regional communities. Over the next few days (and beyond) we celebrate the spirit of NAIDOC week, and all we have learned and continue to learn, as we build on the collective efforts to support partnerships, knowledge sharing and mutual respect with First Nations people through our work. #NAIDOC2024