Community leaders from across the Western Downs have come together to drive a shared vision for the region's liveability, as part of a dedicated Futures Summit which took place from 3-5 May 2023.
Western Downs Regional Council facilitated the Western Downs Futures' Summit, which was about proactively planning for the future and ensuring the region continues to thrive.
Mayor Paul McVeigh said the three-day summit drew together a variety of community leaders, government agencies, and not-for-profit organisations to share local knowledge and build a stronger future for the region.
"The Western Downs is a fast-growing rural and regional centre which is founded by unique local communities with a variety of social and economic needs," Cr McVeigh said.
"As part of our ongoing strategy to build liveability and harness opportunities for the region, Council is facilitating the Western Downs Futures Summit to explore the individual needs of our community in greater detail and take action as one region."
Cr McVeigh said the Summit supported Council's newly endorsed economic development strategy, and would create a platform to have dedicated conversations, planning, and multi-agency solutions to a range of issues and challenges.
"Delegates discussed a range of issues such as housing, education, health, community engagement, and crime and explored possible solutions in a collaborative and constructive way," he said.
"The Futures Summit supplements the Queensland Government's Jobs & Energy Plan, which will rely heavily on the Western Downs leading with renewable energy.
"These plans rely on attracting and retaining people to regional and remote communities, as well as ensuring adequate housing, health, childcare, and services, which is why it's vital we come together to define a shared vision and dedicated course of action as one community.
"This Summit is about combining government agencies with fantastic local knowledge and industry experience that provides a clear pathway for the next ten years of positive change."
The group will meet again in June to establish a progress committee and set a clear vision, purpose, and objectives.
