Central Highlands, Queensland. More Than You Expect! Business and Residents Welcome Guide

Transcription

1 Central Highlands, Queensland More Than You Expect! Business and Residents Welcome Guide

2 ur Region at a glance The Central Highlands of Queensland refers to the Local Government area of the Central Highlands Regional Council. The region covers an area of almost 60,000 square kilometres, including a significant portion of the Bowen Basin Australia s largest coal reserve. This prosperous and vibrant region has a diverse economy based on: A globally competitive coal mining industry, with continuing expansions and developments Traditionally robust and resilient agricultural and horticultural industries, including beef, grain, cotton, grapes, melons and citrus Dynamic small and medium businesses Professional and government sectors Availability of commercial, industrial and residential land. Other competitive economic advantages include a growing tourism market, a booming regional airport in Emerald, as well as a concentration of government facilities and major health and education services. With billion-dollar infrastructure and construction projects under way, this region has plenty to offer! Page 2

3 TRanspORT The region is the hub for major road and rail freight routes north-south and east-west. Flying time from Emerald to Brisbane is under ninety minutes, which is convenient for both business and leisure, and offers easy connections to other capital cities. QantasLink operates over 40 return flights each week, and Virgin Australia offers up to four return services each weekday. Our closest regional centre Rockhampton and the nearby Capricorn Coast are within a three hour drive. population The population of the Central Highlands region was estimated at 35,710 in 2012*. The population has grown steadily at a rate of 2.6% a year over the previous five years. CliMaTE The Central Highlands region enjoys a sub-tropical climate with nearly half of its annual rainfall (average 636mm) falling in the summer months of December through to February. Average summer temperatures range from C, while the mild winters mean April-September is peak tourist season. utilities Valuable water resources on the Nogoa and Comet Rivers have allowed significant development and expansion of agriculture and large-scale mining operations. The primary purpose of the Fairbairn Dam, near Emerald, is for irrigation; farmers have a regular water supply for cotton, citrus, table-grapes and melons. The construction of the dam in 1972 assisted the development of the large-scale coal mining within the Bowen Basin, which today produces around 80% of Queensland s total coal exports. At capacity, Fairbairn Dam can hold up to three times the water in the Sydney Harbour. The dams and rivers in the region are also popular recreational facilities for locals and visitors. With major sub-stations at Blackwater and Lilyvale, and a newly-constructed CSG power station near Blackwater, the region has significant electricity transmission infrastructure to meet the needs of heavy industry. BusinEss activity The Gross Regional Product (GRP) for the region was estimated at $4.56 billion in 2010/11. This strong figure is largely due to mining activity, however, other major contributors include agriculture, construction, transport and retail. In mid 2011, there were 3,187 businesses registered in the region. HOusinG and accommodation The Central Highlands has a variety of accommodation to suit all lifestyles, ranging from urban units to rural acreage. Council continues to work with developers to increase the availability of land and residential housing options across the region. Short stay visitors, tourists and travellers also have a range of choices, including well-equipped caravan parks, affordable self-catering units and modern motels. MORE QuEsTiOns? The Central Highlands website contains a wealth of information on the region. Visit for useful contact details, local businesses and services. *Source: Bowen Basin Population Report 2012 Page 3

4 EMERald The largest town on the Central Highlands, Emerald is the dominant commercial, retail and industrial centre, and is the regional base for many government departments. Emerald is the thriving hub for many diverse industries including mining and resources, agriculture, construction, retail and the ancillary support services to these sectors. The activity surrounding the mining boom has seen Emerald grow in size and population, while still remaining a safe and positive place to live and work. There is a range of well-equipped and modern facilities for people of all ages, including the regional airport, sporting clubs and venues, art gallery, cinema, shopping centres and the Botanical Gardens. Fairbairn Dam, 25km outside Emerald, is a favourite spot for skiing, boating and fishing. Total population 16,666 Township 12,895 District 3,771 Primary school 5 High school 3 HEadinG EasT: COMET One of the earliest townships in the region, this small rural town is a service centre for the local farming community. Comet is located at the junction of the Nogoa, Mackenzie and Comet Rivers, and irrigated and dry-land crops are produced on the rich black alluvial soils of the floodplains. Many visitors stop to see the famous Dig Tree, marked by explorer Ludwig Leichhardt in Total population 529 BlaCkWaTER Blackwater s heritage and substantial export earnings has earned its title of Coal Capital of Queensland. The town is ranked second behind Emerald in terms of commercial, retail and industrial activity, due to the central location, supermarket, and contribution to the coal mining industry. Locals and visitors enjoy many sporting and outdoor activities including skiing and fishing at the Bedford Weir, or climbing and camping at Blackdown Tablelands National Park. The Blackwater International Coal Centre offers mine tours and interactive displays, which are a great way to understand more about the resource sector. Total population 5,100 Township 4,837 District 263 Primary school 2 High school 1 Bluff Railway and mining are the backbone of this small community, and Bluff s location between some of Queensland s largest coal mines and the port of Gladstone has led to it becoming a major interchange station for large coal trains. Total population 370 dingo Situated just off the main road, the township sits adjacent to the junction of two busy highways that service the beef, timber and coal industries, and is almost half way between Emerald and Rockhampton. This is a strong and supportive community, with many public assets including the race club, tennis club, rodeo grounds and pony club. Total population 342 duaringa Duaringa is located on the Capricorn Highway at the eastern entrance to the region, just 108km west of Rockhampton, and enjoys a country lifestyle with easy city access. The fertile floodplains of the Dawson and Mackenzie River systems produce some of the finest grain crops and beef cattle in Central Queensland. Duaringa is one of the oldest established townships in the district, and has a rich cultural heritage. Total population 478 Page 4

5 HEadinG WEsT: sapphire GEMfiElds Covering almost 900 square kilometres, the Sapphire Gemfields is one of the world s largest sapphire fields, and takes in the townships of Rubyvale, Sapphire, Anakie and Willows Gemfields. Gemstone mining and tourism are important industries, with thousands of people arriving to try their luck at fossicking, or take part in the annual Gemfest Festival of Gems. Many local residents arrived only planning to spend a couple of weeks, and have stayed for years! Did you know the last Miners Common in Australia is found on the Gemfields. Total population 1,630 HEadinG north: CapElla This thriving rural community is supported by strong grazing, agriculture, manufacturing and mining sectors and is the third largest town in the region in terms of industrial activity. The rich fertile soils of the Peak Downs and a 590mm rainfall produce millions of tonnes of sorghum, sunflower, wheat, legumes and beef annually. Capella enjoys many facilities, including the Aquatic Centre, the Cultural Centre which hosts many renowned performers, a cinema, and an indoor covered arena. Total population 926 High school 1 TiERi The town of Tieri was established in 1982 and now houses mine workers and their young families from the Oaky Creek and Oaky Creek North collieries. This neat, modern township boasts a golf club, pool, civic centre, school and supermarket. Total population 2,012 HEadinG south: springsure Springsure is an attractive township nestled into the foothills of the prominent Mt Zamia escarpment. Camping, fishing and swimming are popular activities in the spectacular mountain ranges and nearby National Parks. The local area boasts many points of interest from the region s rich Aboriginal and European heritage, and is home to the Golden Triangle, some of the State s prime arable land. Springsure is the third largest town in the area in terms of commercial and retail gross lettable area (GLA) and businesses. Total population 1,048 Township 839 District 209 Primary school 2 (The State School has classes from Prep to Year 10) ROllEsTOn This friendly rural community is located in one of the best cattle producing areas in the Central Highlands, close to the spectacular Carnarvon Gorge. The main forms of employment are the grazing and broad-acre cropping industries, with increasing numbers working in the mining sector. Total population 129 arcadia valley This rich fertile valley adjoins the stunning Carnarvon Ranges, and supports extensive pastoral and agricultural holdings. Total district population 463 BauHinia This small community is predominantly made up of rural families, who value the fertile soils and reliable artesian water sources of the Central Queensland Brigalow area. Total district population 320 WanT TO know MORE? CHDC subscribes to the Community.id website, which allows the community free access to all the current data on demographics and economic trends for our Council region in a user-friendly version! Visit for insightful blogs, updates and case studies or follow them on Twitter. Page 5

6 The Central Highlands region is located in the heart of Central Queensland and boasts safe, friendly communities, a diverse economy, active healthy lifestyles and abundant natural resources. The diversity of our region attracts people from all walks of life, and many stay on to settle in the area. Our strong economy and expanding infrastructure projects offer employment and security, while the friendly and laid-back lifestyle quickly makes new residents feel at home. While the lifestyle is relaxed, you will enjoy many of the advantages of city living without the stresses. Instead of lengthy commutes, you will be able to spend more time with your family and enjoy the many social, sporting and recreational facilities on offer. There are modern shopping complexes and retail facilities, cafes and restaurants, and cinemas all in close proximity. The region is experiencing continuous growth in the mining and resource sectors, construction, trades, and also in the traditional agricultural areas of cattle, grain, cotton and horticulture. This expansion, together with a growing population and an increasing demand for support industries, means there are positive prospects for employment and professional career development. With some of the best cropping land in Queensland, reliable water resources, and close proximity to the rich coal seams of the Bowen and Galilee Basins, the Central Highlands region is perfectly positioned to offer opportunity to everyone. Central Highlands Queensland Population ,710 4,560,059 Projected Population ,742 6,592,857 Average Age 31.6 years 36.6 years Average Weekly Income $831 $587 Source: Office of Statistical and Economic Research, ABS Census 2011 When we moved to Australia from Zimbabwe, we chose to come to Emerald because of the employment prospects. We found it very easy to fit in and become part of the community if you want to get involved, people are happy to include you. Russell, Claudine, Andie-Lee and Zoe-Jayne, Emerald. Page 6

7 Our Community Assets EduCaTiOn The availability and quality of educational facilities is an important consideration when families are moving to a new area. The Central Highlands is proud of the safe, healthy and nurturing environment our schools and day-care centres provide, while still maintaining excellent academic standards. There is a mix of religious, independent and state school options which provide educational and employment opportunities for students and teachers. A wide variety of sporting, academic, music and cultural activities are readily available across both primary and secondary campuses. As well as offering traditional academic paths, the high schools have close links with local businesses, allowing students to complete school-based apprenticeships and vocational training. primary schools 23 primary schools cater for our towns and rural districts, while the Capricornia School of Distance Education in Emerald provides schooling services to isolated children in central and western Queensland. HiGH schools Emerald Capella Emerald State High, Marist College Emerald, Emerald Christian College Capella State High Blackwater Blackwater State High Springsure Springsure State School P-10 TERTiaRY EduCaTiOn Emerald has one of the most extensive educational opportunities of any regional centre. CQ Institute of TAFE focuses on apprenticeship-training to meet the demands of the region s mining and agriculture industries. Courses are also available at the Emerald Agricultural Research and Training Campus while CQ Uni runs a support hub for its Distance students. There are a large number of Registered Training Organisations (RTO) providing vocational training and short courses in mining, trades and other industries. A complete list of facilities and contact details is available on the Central Highlands website HOusinG There are a variety of options for residential property, whether you are looking for a family home or an investment decision. With new housing estates in different stages of development, you can design your own house, garden and pool package and have it built by local master tradesmen. You can also choose from traditional Queenslanders on quarter-acre allotments, the easy maintenance of unit living, or a larger lifestyle block. The Council has formed a housing company which will assist in the provision of affordable housing packages for key service workers in our communities. Four properties in Blackwater have already been built under this scheme. Contact one of the local real estate firms for expert advice on investment property management or finding your dream home their details are available at Council Region Central Highlands Median House Price $425, month change 13.3% Number sold (year to Sept 2012) Median House Rental Rate Change in median rent (12 months) 716 $500 0% Source: Office of Statistical and Economic Research, REIQ Page 7

8 I work with a dedicated, enthusiastic group of midwives in a progressive and highly skilled unit in a rural setting, we have to be able to work across all domains of maternity service. In a region with so many young families, our focus is to provide the best possible care and support for women in their own communities. Donna Milburn, Maternity Unit Manager, Emerald Hospital. The Central Highlands region boasts an established healthcare infrastructure with a comprehensive network of support services. Many specialist medical and health needs are catered for by resident professionals, enhanced by regular visits from public and private specialists. There are three public hospitals offering a full range of acute inpatient, accident and emergency, pharmacy, outpatient and urgent radiology services. Emerald - a 36 bed facility providing surgical, paediatric and maternity services, as well as an extensive range of allied health clinics. Blackwater - a 16 bed facility incorporating 4 aged care beds and community and allied health clinics. Springsure - redeveloped in 2004 and is now a combined 22 bed hospital and 10 bed aged care facility. The general health of our communities is in good hands, with 18 GPs across ten clinics, five dental clinics, seven pharmacies and many allied health professionals, including physiotherapists, speech therapists, social workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, and podiatrists. There is also a large variety of visiting specialists including psychiatrists, obstetricians, ophthalmologists and cardiologists. A $5.5 million GP Super Clinic is expected to open in Emerald in early 2014 to deliver extended hours, provide more integrated care, and improve access to a broader range of services. CaRE facilities There are several facilities in the region providing care and support services to the broader community. Access Accommodation operates units in Emerald which provide community based, longterm living and supported accommodation arrangements for people with a disability. Semita House and Yumba Bimbi provide learning, lifestyle and respite services to people with disabilities living in Central Highlands and Western Queensland communities. Emerald has a residential aged care facility which provides respite, low and high care services, which enables family members to remain in their communities. Council has expanded to 92 the number of community housing properties available for youth and seniors in Emerald, Duaringa, Capella, the Sapphire Gemfields and Springsure. Page 8

9 Whether you are looking for an organised sporting event, or just a leisurely hike through the scenic national parks, there is plenty to keep you active in the Central Highlands! Most towns in the region enjoy friendly competition with regular fixtures in cricket, netball, soccer, rugby league and rugby union, and provide strong support for their teams. Touch football, tennis, golf and squash are very popular, with a weekly game a social event for many workplaces. New residents bring new energy and ideas, which has resulted in the recent creation of a regional triathlon calendar, and an enthusiastic hockey club. Sporting competition is available at all levels, with many of our local sports stars enjoying success at State and National titles. In our sub-tropical climate, water sports are always popular, and the community pools are enjoyed by the whole family. Emerald s upgraded aquatic centre with a learn-to-swim pool, wet-play area and a 10 lane 50m pool is due for completion in October A 25m enclosed heated pool and wet-play area is part of a major redevelopment underway at Blackwater and improvements are also occurring at Springsure s swimming facility. Capella s Aquatic Centre is a jewel in the town s crown, boasting five pools, a waterslide, squash court and mini golf course. The Sapphire Gemfields also has its own swimming complex, opened in Boating and fishing are popular activities on the lakes and dams, or get your adrenalin pumping behind the boat on a wakeboard or skis! Active communities are healthy communities, and the Council and other organisations have invested heavily to ensure our sporting facilities are of a high standard and well utilised. A multi-million-dollar sports precinct has been built to meet the needs of the growing Central Highlands community. This venue in Emerald consists of 6 netball courts, tennis courts and open play space. The Central Highlands even caters for learner drivers and motorsport fans thanks to new a driver training and karting precinct in Emerald. Young cyclists are kept entertained at an Emerald park that features a learn-to-ride facility and an upgraded BMX track that s nearing completion. Get fit with a Pilates, yoga or Zumba class there are several fully-equipped and air-conditioned gyms across the Central Highlands, including at the region s popular PCYCs. Whether you are a participant or a volunteer, joining a club or organisation is a great way to get active and become part of the community. Over 40,000 people support the bid for Central Queensland s own National Rugby League team in 2015! Find out more at Page 9

10 The month-long Arts in August program culminates in the Central Highlands Multicultural Festival. This annual Festival showcases our vibrant and diverse region, attracting crowds of over 6,000 people. Entertainment and the arts With a friendly community and a younger population, there are plenty of options on the Central Highlands social scene. Visit one of the pubs for live music and a night out with friends, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, or catch one of the latest release movies at the cinema. Get dressed up for a social day at the picnic race carnivals pick out your hat and heels at one of the local boutiques. Don your cowboy boots and get into the action at a rodeo or campdraft, or mingle with the crowds and sample the local produce at the agricultural shows. Join the parade at the Easter Sunflower Festival, and be amazed at the sapphires and jewellery at Gemfest, one of Australia s best gem shows. Events with a local flavour include the Capella Camel Races, Tieri Billy Cart Derby and World Dingo Trap Throwing Competitions! The Capella Cultural Centre is the region s largest cultural and conference centre. The 500-seat auditorium has hosted everything from international acts and big name entertainers, to rock bands and ballet. Well-known artists and performers are regular visitors to our region, running work-shops and exhibitions for all to enjoy. The diversity of our population is evident when you see the different skills and talents people bring to the area we have chefs, drummers, singers, drama groups, piano teachers, artists, dance schools and so much more! There are several festivals and events throughout the year, drawing crowds from across the region and beyond, and providing activities for all ages, budgets and interests. Getting involved in these events is a sure way to be considered a local! With several daily return flights to Brisbane, and convenient connections to other capital cities, you can still be a part of the major events on the sporting, cultural and family calendars. Page 10

11 A pyjama day between mine shifts... took the boat out to the dam and put the pots in. On the way back, picked up a box of produce at the farm gate will have fresh avocados and redclaw on the BBQ tonight. daniel, Emerald Exploring Our Region The Central Highlands is home to some of Queensland s most unique attractions, which are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. With a wealth of national parks, rivers, dams, and a rich cultural heritage, there is plenty to see and do in your leisure time. You could spend a week driving around the Central Highlands - it is a perfect place to enjoy magnificent scenery, explore at your own pace and to get off the beaten track. Visit one of the pristine national parks: Go hiking or climbing at Blackdown Tableland Camp out on the Roof of Queensland the headwaters of the Nogoa River at Salvator Rosa Carnarvon Gorge is one of the most visited National Parks in Central Queensland, and the soaring cliffs and natural beauty make it a major tourist attraction for the region. If you are lucky, there are more stunning natural attractions to be found at the Sapphire Gemfields try fossicking at the world s most significant sapphire-bearing grounds. The Blackwater International Coal Centre houses the Australian Coal Mining Museum which offers mine tours and interactive displays, which are a great way to understand more about the resources sector. The Capella Pioneer Village and Old Rainworth Fort are some of the museums and displays which showcase our European and Indigenous heritage. Page 11

12 WHO ElsE is HERE? The Central Highlands is a prosperous and industrious part of Queensland. In mid-2011, there were 3,187 businesses operating across the region, representing a cross section of privately owned small to medium enterprises through to global corporations. Your new business neighbours could be a family-owned outlet, or an ASX Top 50 company. BusinEss BY TuRnOvER Turnover Number of Businesses 0-<$100,000 1,344 $100,000-$500,000 1,151 $500,000-$2M 510 $2M+ 182 We started our engineering business in Capella in 2005, recognising the demand from the resources industry. Since then, we have gone from strength to strength, and now employ 10 staff, including 4 apprentices. By keeping up with the latest technology, equipment and environmental standards we ensure we offer a competitive local option. Wes struckel, Capella MajOR developments a snapshot RETail Emerald boasts four major shopping precincts, including Central Highlands Marketplace which opened in The 18,300m2 centre contains national chains, specialty shops, fast food outlets, commercial office space, and over 900 parking spaces. Two national retailers are the first to open at the new Homemaker s Centre, which will contain over 9,000m2 of GLA (gross leasable area) after 3 stages are completed. Estimated cost $5.5 million. Plans are underway to rejuvenate Blackwater s shopping centre, starting with a major overhaul of its amenities and one of the entries. Mining Looking forward from 2013, there are approximately 20 mining projects in various stages of development across the Central Highlands region. This includes new projects and expansion of existing mines, with a total estimated investment of over $9 billion dollars. With several of these projects having an estimated mine life of years, there will be a consistent demand for skilled labour into the future. In addition, there are major mining, energy and infrastructure projects under exploration and development in the Galilee, Surat and Bowen Basins, which will have a flow-on effect for our region. land Many residential developments are planned for the Central Highlands, with over $10 million currently invested in this area. The development of 445 new residential lots was approved in the year to September 2012, representing a high level of activity for the council. The CHDC Development Register provides a status of development projects and outlines their scope, costs, locations and estimated completion dates for all known projects within the Central Highlands. Find out more at the register is updated quarterly. ECOnOMiC drivers The Gross Regional Product (GRP) of the Central Highlands was around $4.56 billion in 2010/11, which is a significant contribution to Queensland s economy. This is an increase from $4.1 billion in 2008/09, representing a consistent growth rate through a period of global financial crisis. The Top 5 (Employment) Mining 33.8% Construction 8.9% Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 8.6% Retail 6.8% Hospitality 6.1% Page 12

13 MajOR industries The Central Highlands is fortunate to have diverse and robust industries, with mining and agriculture having the most significant influence on local and State economies. Local businesses are able to build their capability to capitalise on growth opportunities generated by these industries. The flow-on effects are considerable, with every job generated in these industries creating multiple indirect positions. Construction, education and training and retail are also major contributors to the region s prosperity and labour force. MininG According to the Queensland Resource Council, for every direct resources sector job, another 2.1 indirect jobs are created. This has a positive flow-on effect for the supply chain, with industries benefiting the most from growth in the resources sectors including: Beef Cattle Around 930,000 head of cattle are grazed and lot-fed on just under 5 million hectares. Average turnoff is 450,000 head annually for a gross value of $320 million. Horticulture Table grapes and citrus provide the bulk of the horticulture product, including 33% of Queensland s table grapes, estimated to be worth $16.5 million. 15% of the State s mandarin production is grown locally. A large proportion of this crop, which is worth around $11 million, is exported to South-East Asia and the Middle East. Minor horticulture crops include watermelons and macadamias. Forestry An estimated 221,000ha of state forestry and timber reserves in the Central Highlands region which can produce over $1.2 million worth of native timber products. The total gross value for agriculture and forestry for the Central Highlands is around $530 million. location, location, location! The Central Highlands enjoys close and collaborative relationships with other regions in Queensland, promoting many cross-border opportunities. Situated within the Bowen Basin, our central location places us in close proximity to the emerging powerhouse of the Galilee Basin, the gas and coal fields of the Surat Basin, and the North West Minerals Province. The neighbouring coastal areas of Mackay, Whitsundays, and the Capricorn Coast are popular recreational destinations for our residents. In the 2012 Central Highlands Industry Capability Audit, a variety of opportunities were identified for local businesses to further tap into resource sector supply chains. These range from supplying clothing and footwear to cleaning and on-site maintenance. Wholesale trade ($397.2 million in turnover) Rail, pipeline and other transport ($146.2 million turnover) Services to mining ($118 million turnover). Did you know one of the largest privately owned mandarin orchards in the southern hemisphere is just outside Emerald? agriculture Some of Australia s most arable land is found in the Central Highlands, attracting investment from large-scale private, corporate and international operators. Bulk commodities including cotton, wheat and chickpeas are major exports to China, India and Asia. dry-land cropping an estimated 180,000ha devoted to dry-land cropping produces an average 376,000 tons annually of grain, pulses and oilseeds with a gross value of $96 million. irrigated cropping - 21,000ha of land developed to broadacre irrigation. The predominant crop is cotton, with an average production of 178,000 bales worth around $89 million. Minor irrigated crops include peanuts, soybeans and lucerne. Page 13

14 The Central Highlands is Open for Business! The Central Highlands is proactively planning for the future to ensure strong sustainable communities across the region. There is a recognised need to build on the traditional industries of agriculture and mining, to provide support and assistance to other diverse and ancillary business opportunities and encourage growth and investment. If your business plan identifies the demand for a skilled labour force, market proximity, expanding population and strategically located premises, we look forward to welcoming you to the region. P EMplOYMEnT In September 2012, the unemployment rate across the Central Highlands was 2.1%, compared to 5.6% across the rest of the state. This low figure means opportunity for graduates and school leavers, and flexibility for parents returning to work part-time. Over 5,500 people are estimated to be non-permanent residents of the Central Highlands, in that they do not live here but they work here. The region s diverse economic base and employment opportunities encompass agriculture, health, training, construction, mining and ancillary services. There is a large professional base including engineers, managers, accountants, solicitors, allied health and medical staff. Working in a regional environment enables employees to quickly gain a useful range of experience and skills across many areas. P COMMuniCaTiOn and TRanspORT Access to established communication networks with broadband internet, extensive mobile phone coverage and technical support services means you can do business anywhere in the world while still enjoying the lifestyle of the Central Highlands. You will find farmers adopting the latest innovations in telemetry based systems, retailers using social media for e-tail trading, and be able to keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues through VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocols). Transport facilities also offer a fast and convenient link there are several daily flights to Brisbane, with convenient international and domestic connections. There are regular freight services via road, rail and air to ports and major cities, with north-south and east-west highways intersecting the region. Major infrastructure projects are planned for new and existing rail networks to accommodate increasing quantities of export coal, including the Wiggins Island Rail Project south to the Port of Gladstone. P COMMERCial and industrial premises A recent on-site audit of industrial and commercial activity in the Central Highlands identified considerable opportunities in the form of vacant or underdeveloped lots which could be potentially developed into commercial or industrial premises. Blackwater and Emerald were identified as having the most available land for these purposes. Overall, the commercial vacancy rate for the area was considered to be an appropriate level to allow for new market entrants and for existing businesses to expand and contract. Contact one of the local real estate agents for expert assistance and local knowledge in locating your new home or business premises. Page 14

15 PREsEaRCH and innovation With a younger workforce and a booming economy, business and industry are willing to embrace the latest innovations and technology to improve productivity. The Emerald Agricultural Research and Training Campus is a hub for agricultural research, with scientists and technical officers leading the way in best-practice beef and farming systems, breeding higher yielding and more efficient crops, and natural resource management. Mining companies develop and apply new techniques across their range of operations, from exploration through to health and safety issues. P support networks There are several organisations ready to welcome new businesses and provide assistance and advice: CHDC (Central Highlands Development Corporation) facilitates a diverse range of projects and initiatives by providing proactive advice, statistical information, workshops and support to business, industry, government and community Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Major banks and financial institutions can provide local assistance with investment and financial decisions, with specialised knowledge in the agribusiness sector Chamber of Commerce and Progress Associations Visitor Information Centres Working Womens Network and Zonta Service Clubs Lions, Rotary Our regional newspaper, Central Queensland News is published twiceweekly and the Blackwater Herald is published weekly Emerald Neighbourhood Centre CEnTRal HigHlandS REgional CounCil The Central Highlands Regional Council was established on 15 March 2008, following the amalgamation of the former shires of Bauhinia, Duaringa, Emerald and Peak Downs. With a staff of approximately 500, this modern and progressive council is one of the larger employers in the region and administers a region of 60,000 square kilometres. Council manages assets in excess of $1 billion; including nearly 300 community facilities such as town halls, swimming pools and libraries, over 4,000km of roads, water and sewerage facilities, as well as the Emerald Airport and Saleyards. You will find many useful details about services for new and existing businesses and residents on the website CEnTRal HigHlandS development CoRpoRaTion CHDC is the lead economic development agency for the Central Highlands. CHDC is dedicated to: Advocating for sustainable regional and economic growth Proactively marketing and promoting the Central Highlands as a region of choice Enhancing workforce development Supporting business development, innovation and capacity Supporting community organisations to develop skills and knowledge CHDC provides a range of statistical information, research and reports to support business, community, industry and government on our websites, and CHDC also publishes a fortnightly enews which includes news and developments; relevant research and reports; community, business, industry activities; and a jobs board. Page 15

16 The Central Highlands Development Corporation thanks James Laws Photography, Annette Pankhurst and Barb Beazley for helping to provide images for this brochure. Disclaimer: CHDC has made every effort to ensure these details are correct at the time of printing, but takes no responsibility for any inaccuracy or misrepresentation, whether by inclusion, omission, change or withdrawal of services without notice. We encourage you to use these resources, either in full or in part, copied, quoted, reprinted, given away or circulated. Parts may be torn out, extracted and enhanced. In short, all resources are public property. Please use in any way to build the skills and knowledge of citizens in building healthier communities and more vibrant local economies. Printed July Sources: Information in this booklet was sourced from the Office of Economic and Statistical Research (Queensland Treasury and Trade), Australian Bureau of Statistics, Foresight Partners, Central Highlands Regional Council and its Community Plan, id.community and the Central Highlands Development Corporation. Central Highlands, Queensland More Than You Expect! Central Highlands development Corporation Wally McKenzie House, Emerald Showgrounds PO Box 1425, Emerald QLD 4720 Phone: Facsimile: Central Highlands Regional Council Head office - Emerald Cnr Egerton and Borilla Streets PO Box 21, Emerald QLD 4720 Phone: Facsimile: enquiries@chrc.qld.gov.au