THE first of two economic development forums will be held in Goulburn tomorrow.
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The invitation only event at the Grace Millsom Centre will thrash out ideas for the area’s future 10 years down the track.
It will bring together developers, businesspeople, the Chamber of Commerce, large companies and more.
Mayor Geoff Kettle said the idea arose from discussions between himself, general manager Warwick Bennett and councillors on what Goulburn Mulwaree should look like by 2025.
“That includes the way it should be developed and what role Council and business should play,” he said.
“One of the main things too is to get all levels of government involved.”
The two and a half hour forum will include a presentation on major projects flagged in Council’s budget for 2015/16 and the ensuing three years.
Cr Kettle said while Federal MP Angus Taylor was unable to attend, State member Pru Goward would be there.
Some 35 people have confirmed their attendance, including Anglican Bishop of Canberra/Goulburn, Stuart Robinson. Cr Kettle said the forum was about all types of development and Bishop Robinson was interested in what growth would mean for the church and social service organisations.
In a letter to invitees, Council general manager Warwick Bennett said it was important to hear people’s views. This in turn would enable Council to promote Goulburn Mulwaree as a “great place to do business.”
“The types of questions we will be asking (include) are ‘what do we want Goulburn Mulwaree to look like from a business perspective in 2025; how do you believe we should get there; what should Council do to be part of achieving this 2025 vision; what does the business community need to do differently to achieve the vision; how can we all work together to achieve (this)?’” he wrote in a letter.
Cr Kettle said the workshop style would come up with ideas on which the council could build.
“I want to keep the conversation going,” he said.
The Mayor is proposing a “high level” economic development working group comprising Mr Taylor, Ms Goward, himself, business representatives and others.
He told the Post there was great opportunity with the Greater Sydney Commission, established by the state government to look at the bigger picture for outer suburbs.
With suburbs like Campbelltown and Camden being urged to free up more residential land, Cr Kettle said Goulburn Mulwaree was primed to scoop up the cream. If he has his way, more industrial and agricultural enterprises will relocate to this region. He cited the poultry, transport and logistics and renewable energy industries as suitable, along with any that complemented Marulan’s booming quarry projects.
“The quarry industry is probably one of the biggest drivers in the region,” he said.
Following Thursday’s discussion Cr Kettle will initiate discussions with the Western Sydney Business Chamber.
His aim is to identify businesses interested in relocating to Goulburn and district.
A second council economic development forum on a date to be announced will discuss the future of commercial and industrial zoning in the region.
Others invited to Thursday’s also event include quarry companies, Veolia, Marian College developer Nicholas Daoud, local businessmen and developers, hoteliers, real estate agents, car dealers and NSW Corrective Services. Councillors and some council staff will also attend.