Vision plan launched

EMPLOYMENT, infrastructure and aging residents were all issues identified in Regional Development Australia's 10-year vision for the Northern Rivers.

EMPLOYMENT, infrastructure, biodiversity, climate change, population growth and aging residents were all issues identified in Regional Development Australia's 10-year vision for the Northern Rivers launched yesterday.

Key players from local government, business and industry gathered at Maclean and heard how the Northern Rivers faced signifi- cant challenges to its heritage and lifestyle.

Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers chair Ian Tiley said the Northern Rivers Regional Plan addressed many of the drivers, initiatives and programs that impact the region.

He said following guidelines of the plan would secure investment into the natural, social and economic capital of the region.

"Today I am calling upon the key players in communities, in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to work with us to achieve the desired outcomes set out in it and to help us make this regional plan a living project, not just a report that sits on desks and bookshelves," Mr Tiley said.

Following the launch, Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers board held a forum with representatives from the Northern Rivers timber and forestry industry.

The forum focused on issues including education campaigns, value adding, building capacity for the future and land-use carbon audits.

Discussions referred to the desired outcomes listed in the new plan as we move towards a low-carbon economy.

Originally published as Vision plan launched