But they are rarely focused enough or sufficiently funded to be practical.

The state government has undertaken several Sydney to Canberra corridor studies which have not delivered anything meaningful for Goulburn. Hopes of a freight and logistics hub have not materialised mainly for lack of funding and pulling power.

Now the government is embarking on a much wider strategy, taking in 13 councils, including Goulburn Mulwaree. Mayor Geoff Kettle is right to criticise its vastness and approach.

As Goulburn is finding out, step by step, the best laid plans are local. In recent times we have forged good relationships with the ACT that are reaping tourism and economic rewards.

A fair chunk of our growth is coming from the ACT region with tree changers seeking more affordable land. It is coming from the Sydney side as well. 

Goulburn Mulwaree’s population stood at 29,230 last year, up by 1147 people from 2010. We are expected to grow by another 5200 people by 2031, which is higher than earlier forecasts. Already, the highest population bases are in the council area’s north and south.

If high speed rail materialises, those figures will shoot up immeasurably.

In the meantime, Council cannot sit back and wait for government help to grow our economy. All indications are that it is not.

In recent years, the council has restructured its committees, focusing on specific projects. Though controversial at the time, it has reaped rewards. The economic development committee has initiated an extractive industries expo to harness local opportunities, started on a similar project focused on the wind industry and come up with a CBD improvement plan.

Elsewhere, The Goulburn Group has introduced free WiFi to the city and made great strides with the Eastgrove wetlands. Another group is working to develop rail trails.

Initiatives like Louise Edwards’ Cottage Crafters shop in Auburn St (featured in Monday’s Post) and featuring heritage photos in vacant stores inject vibrancy and entice visitors. A push to draw more tourists along the old Hume Highway (Route 31) will also have spinoffs for Goulburn.

As the mayor realistically says today, we cannot rely on state and federal money for economic developments

State growth plans will inevitably get lost in the mire, but smaller, focused work will inevitably achieve results.