Private Sector to Guide Council on New Era of Economic Growth
Published 10 June 2021
Moreton Bay Region’s economic transformation will be led by frontline experts, after Council appointed seven business leaders from the private sector to form a taskforce that will oversee the implementation of its new Regional Economic Development Strategy (REDS).
Taskforce Chairperson Mayor Peter Flannery said when it comes to supporting business, government is best to take advice from the experts.
“These local business leaders were chosen for their expertise across regional priority industries including advanced manufacturing, food and agribusiness, international trade, investment and marketing capability,” Mayor Flannery said.
‘’We have an abundance of opportunity here, but how do we turn that potential into revenue and investment for Moreton Bay Region? That’s what we want them to tell us!
“Our taskforce has been given the licence to be aspirational, frank, and fearless in telling us what they think Council needs to do to ensure our REDS achieves the results we’re looking for in making the Moreton Bay Regional economy bigger, bolder, and brighter.
“This is a Council that’s prepared to heed expert advice and the formation of this taskforce builds on the creation of Millovate to progress investment at The Mill Petrie which will deliver 8,600 ongoing jobs and add $813 million into the regional economy per year on average once fully realised.”
Taskforce Member Craig Shim from Alphacrane Intercultural Specialists said he wanted Council to look at opportunities beyond state and domestic borders.
‘’As a representative with a focus on international business, I’m thrilled to be appointed and look forward to sharing my insights and contributing to the implementation of the REDS,” Mr Shim said.
‘’Although the strategy maps a clear pathway for positioning the Moreton Bay Region as a competitive world-class destination, the challenge will be keeping ahead of global trends and capitalising on the best commercial opportunities from across Australia, and indeed, the world.
“That’s where I see the REDS Taskforce has an important role to play.”
My Berries co-founder Allison McGruddy said it was positive to see Council signing onto initiatives like the Queensland Government Small Business Friendly Council initiative in May 2021.
“That will provide ongoing support and assistance to the 29,000 plus businesses that call this region home, and by bringing those industry leaders together we can effectively deliver on the vision for our region,” she said.
“I’m delighted to be appointed to the REDS Taskforce and I look forward to being a part of this dynamic team.”
Appointed REDS Taskforce Members:
- Mayor Peter Flannery
- Chief Economic Development Officer, Paul Martins
- Craig Shim, Alphacrane Intercultural Specialists
- Leanne Kemp, Everledger
- Michael Holmstrom, STEM Punks
- Allison McGruddy, My Berries
- David Crowley, Mott MacDonald
- Garth Haslam, Westfield North Lakes
- Lea Ea, ARROWES
Join #TeamMoretonBay and find out more at moretonbay.qld.gov.au/REDS