A major energy supplier has reaffirmed its commitment to regional Queensland with refurbishment works completed on its South West Queensland office.
Speaking at the opening of Origin's newly renovated Roma office, Resources Minister Scott Stewart said the office space can now accommodate up to 36 staff members.
"The expansion of this office in a regional Queensland town is evidence that Origin continues to grow and develop as a significant contributor to our state's economy," Mr Stewart said.
"This expanded office helps more families stay in our regional communities and support regional businesses."
Origin engaged Duff Builders and other local contractors to complete the extension and refurbishment of the office over the past eight months.
Origin Executive General Manager Integrated Gas Mark Schubert said supporting local businesses was a key element of how Origin shares the benefits of its activities in the communities where it operates.
"During 2020, Origin spent $34.6 million directly with 112 contractors in the Roma region, resulting in another $24.5 million of indirect spending injected into the local economy,
"Origin is proud to be part of the Maranoa community, where we truly support our 'live local, work local' commitment.
"The office expansion to include a larger workspace is a critical step forward to developing an innovative and agile hub for our staff and our core contractors, here in the heart of the Maranoa," Mr Schubert said.
The opening featured an Aboriginal Smoking Ceremony conducted by Mandandanji man, David (Dook) McCarthy.
The collaboration between Origin and local Aboriginal communities is also reflected in artwork on display in the building.
"We are proud to work in close partnership with Origin to ensure the new space is reflective of Aboriginal culture and history," Dook said.
"We have cleansed the office through the Smoking Ceremony, helping to promote a fresh start for those working and visiting here," he said.
The new office space contains meeting spaces designated with local Indigenous words, offices and workspaces for employees, and will trial an innovative kid's room.
The refurbished Roma office can accommodate 36 people, including temporary staff visiting the region, with future uplift capacity to 52 people.
