Though , a while ago , you wouldn ’ t have thought so . There was a lack of alignment in regards to a vision for the region and frustrated investors dealing with a challenging approval process .
The Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce recognised that a shared vision and a shift in the cultural narrative was the only way forward . The Chamber established - Champion Redlands Coast , bringing all levels of government and industry leaders together to collectively create a bright future and demonstrate that the region is working together on a common goal .
This collaborative approach resulted in numerous economic development outcomes beyond the initial ambitions of the project . Not only will the abattoir continue to operate into the future , but other economic benefits have arisen , including :
• Around 3.5m in investment
• Increased employment and industry collaboration
• Greater margins for livestock producers
• Quality local meat products with soughtafter provenance , adding value to the local hospitality sector
• Security of supply for regional smallgoods manufacturers , and ;
• a new market deal signed between the co-op and Foodland Supermarkets .
This project demonstrates that leadership and collaboration at a regional level , with multiple stakeholders can produce outstanding results .
Pictured ( from top ): 1 . A local Councillor , State Member of Parliament , police and a local businesses owner at a launch event . 2 . At the conclusion of a community planning workshop , the participants “ Shout It Out ”. 3 . A team from the Food and AgriNetwork plus Chilli coffee celebrating a hole in one at the Caboolture Made Corporate Virtual Indoor Golf Challenge .
A successful centrepiece of the initiative is Caboolture Made . A campaign to lift the profile and contribute to the business confidence of Caboolture . The initiative is dispelling the myths and highlighting the community assets , liveability , opportunity and businesses in Caboolture .
FINALIST : Moreton Bay Regional Council Caboolture Made Negative perceptions and unfavourable media reporting had diminished the Caboolture business community ’ s pride , image and reputation , resulting in economic uncertainty , discouraging longterm investment , activation and generation of new employment opportunities .
A business roundtable in June 2021 between Caboolture ’ s business community , Council and Queensland Police Service explored the issues and resulted in a collaborative approach .
This and other security enhancing and activation tactics have resulted in Greater business engagement , investment , activation , collaboration and confidence in Caboolture ’ s future .
FINALIST : Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce Champion Redlands Coast The Redlands Coast is on the cusp of an unprecedented era in its history . A $ 6.5 billion investment pipeline of 176 projects is set to transform the region - creating employment opportunities , attracting new residents and improving quality of life .
The strengths of this initiative lie in its evidence based , collective and collaborative approach , championed by highly invested local partners and a shared vision about a bright future ahead .
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT JOURNAL VOL 15 NO 3 2022 29