The inaugural event was a resounding success with event attendance of over 45,000 across the weekend , over $ 6 million generated for the Queensland overnight visitor economy and now boasting the biggest car street parade ever held in Australia . Rockynats delivered a significant economic boost for Rockhampton region and will continue to be a must do event on the Motorsport calendar .
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Finalist - The City of Karratha Try Local Cash Initiative In response to COVID-19 , the City of Karratha Council introduced a “ Try Local Cash ” concept which involved $ 100 digital vouchers being sent to over 8500 households which could be redeemed at local businesses .
This initiative disseminated funds through the business community , supported jobs , and presented a unified message to locals whilst also educating the community of the need to support the local business community .
Finalist - Frankston City Council Frankston City Place Activation Program Frankston City ’ s Place Activation Program is an exciting program focussed on revitalisation and activation of commercial precincts . The program has created public spaces that are safe , vibrant , and welcoming places that contribute to a positive , community experience .
Programs under this initiative have improved streetscapes , public amenity and provided support to businesses to enhance economic prosperity .
WINNER - Dubbo Regional Council Supporting Regional Airports and Regional Tourism : Dubbo - Ballina / Byron Bay When the impacts of COVID-19 restrictions were at their tightest , it brought the airline industry to a stand-still . With collaboration and innovation Dubbo Regional Council were able to take the travel silver lining that was occurring in regional markets and take it to the skies !
Through passion and collaboration across Council teams , and with the confidence of Airline operators , Dubbo Regional Council were able to provide support to what is now a sustainable , successful regional travel route . The Dubbo - Ballina / Byron Bay trial took creative thinking and focused , data led business planning to bring all objectives to the table for three separate organisations , and the benefit of this collaboration has been felt both across the airline industry as well as the tourism sector and travellers themselves .
CATEGORY 6 - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RECOVERY & RESILIENCE This award recognises successful economic development programs , initiatives or activities implemented following a disaster , crises or economic downturn . This award also recognises economic development programs which are focussed on resilience building and mitigation .
Finalist - Melbourne Innovation Business Recovery Advisory Service Melbourne Innovation Centre has been delivering the Small Business Victoria , Business Recovery Advisory Service since May 2020 in response to the bushfire disaster . Business owners in bushfire affected regions are provided access to a qualified , local adviser to receive help with all aspects of business operations ,
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