A Minute With The Mayor Ry Collins

It was a positive step forward for our region when Councillors unanimously voted to establish an Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) at last week’s monthly Council meeting in Bowen.
 
As a first term Mayor I am committed to building a prosperous future for our region and the new Advisory Group will bring together Council, community leaders, and business representatives to ensure our economic plans are aligned with the needs and opportunities of the Whitsundays.
 
The EDAG will act as a forum for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the development of innovative strategies to enhance economic development in the region.
 
As Mayor I will chair the group, and we have elected Cr John Finlay as a Councillor representative on the group.
 
To ensure representation from diverse industries and stakeholders within the Whitsunday region industry members will be selected through nomination by our Economic Development Team in consultation with the myself and CEO Warren Bunker.
 
Having key stakeholders on board ensures their voices are heard to ensure it is a collaborative approach that will deliver the best outcomes.
 
EDAG will focus on key areas such as tourism, infrastructure, job creation, and innovation, ensuring the region's economic growth aligns with community values and environmental sustainability.
 
This renewed focus on economic development is part of my broader strategy to bolster the local economy, create employment opportunities, and further establish the Whitsundays as a premier destination for both businesses and tourists.
 
We are one of the fastest growing regions in Queensland and this new initiative will help navigate the region through current economic challenges and set a strong foundation for the future.
 
Given the Whitsundays' strong reliance on tourism, proactive economic strategies ensure the region remains competitive. By attracting investment in tourism-related infrastructure and facilities, the Whitsundays can increase visitor numbers and enhance the overall visitor experience.
 
It is also vital that we diversify the economy beyond tourism to ensure the region withstands economic shocks (like natural disasters or pandemics) by creating a more resilient local economy.
 
Sustainability is also key so it is important that our region’s rapid economic growth can be guided to balance progress with environmental stewardship to encourage sustainable tourism and development practices, protecting the natural beauty and ecosystems that are central to the region’s identity.
 
Proactive development fosters a business-friendly environment, attracting domestic and international investors. It also encourages local innovation, supporting start-ups and creative ventures that can adapt to changing economic conditions.
 
By focusing on proactive economic development, the Whitsunday region can secure a prosperous future, providing economic stability, environmental sustainability, and improved social cohesion for generations to come.

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