Minister Kristy McBain in Gladstone for Local Government Association of Queensland’s Coastal Leaders Forum 2022
Recognising how regional towns drive the economy was top of mind when leaders from across Queensland gathered in Gladstone on Friday. More details here.
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Recognising how regional towns drive the economy was top of mind when leaders from across Queensland gathered in Gladstone on Friday.
Gladstone’s city centre became a bustling hub last week when the Local Government Association of Queensland held the Coastal Leaders Forum for 2022 at the Entertainment Centre.
The annual event connects CEOs with regional, state and federal government members.
Leaders in attendance, including the Gladstone mayor Matt Burnett, were given the opportunity to share specific priorities and discuss strategic initiatives with the goal of fostering innovation within regional towns like Gladstone.
Freshly sworn-in Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain travelled to Gladstone for the event and said over the next three years and beyond she was eager to ensure there was a greater partnership and connection formed between all levels of government.
“Regional communities have a really soft spot in my heart and I want to make sure that we show how important they are to the wider economy,” Minister McBain said.
“Making sure there are options in our regional towns like there are in the city.”
Minister McBain acknowledges and understands that regional towns like Gladstone are the power house for the economy when it comes to producing resources.
Over the next three years “delivering to communities” while “prioritising local voices in conversations and policy making” will be heavy on her radar.
“Covid has really shown a spotlight, signifying that we’re behind in some areas and we need to do better in the regions regardless of how many people, we all deserve access to services,” she said.
“Gladstone is an important regional city in Queensland and we need to make sure it gets priority and attention.”
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