Council to host major Economic Development Conference
Published on 21 March 2018
Rockhampton Regional Council has attracted the largest and most significant gathering of Australia’s leading economic developers with Economic Development Australia’s (EDA) national conference coming to Rockhampton in October.
In its 11th year, the EDA Conference is the biggest forum for economic development practitioners across the country and allows delegates to share knowledge regarding latest trends and best practice in building prosperity among Australian communities.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow, who is Councillor for the Economic Development portfolio, said Council’s Advance Rockhampton team put forward a strong bid to secure the event which will bring around 300 of the best and brightest in Economic Development to the Region.
“I couldn’t think of a better time than now to have influential leaders from across the government and private sector come to Rockhampton,” Mayor Strelow said.
“Council has been committed to driving a strong Economic Development agenda for our Region and it’s very exciting to have the opportunity to put our achievements on display in our own city.
“Our strong advocacy at events from our Advance Rockhampton team, the quality of our local hospitality businesses to support events and of course the beauty of our Region all added to our bid’s competitiveness.
“We have built such strong momentum in the Economic Development space in recent years, especially since winning a national EDA Award for excellence in the digital entrepreneurs category which put us on the map, as well as our adoption of our smart technology strategy and our investment in game changing projects.”
Economic Development Australia Executive Officer, Jacqueline Brinkman, praised Council’s approach to Economic Development and said this years’ conference will focus on how Australian cities and regional communities can stimulate innovation and economic growth.
“We are delighted to announce Rockhampton as the host of Australia’s leading economic development event,” Ms Brinkman said.
“Rockhampton’s approach to economic development, by fostering competitiveness across its 10 key industries will be an ideal backdrop for Australia’s pre-eminent economic development event and an excellent professional development opportunity for EDA members.
“The Rockhampton location also supports the desire of EDA to deliver the national conference through regional cities, highlighting the importance of the regions to Australia’s prosperity and providing an opportunity to showcase local initiatives and attractions.”
National and global experts in investment attraction, industry development, job creation, competitiveness, market development, place activation and productivity will converge on Rockhampton to take part in the dynamic three day event from October 16 – 18.
Local businesses are also encouraged to attend to share and tap into ideas about how they can ‘grow the pie’ even faster.
Tickets will go on sale next month, further details to come.