Planning for a thriving future Central West Queensland region
Realising the Big Vision
We, the Women at the Well, are currently working with RAPAD, to develop a strategy that looks beyond drought, and transforms the economic outlook of the Central West Queensland region – and we are seeking your help to ensure this approach is reflective of the community’s aspiration.
The seven council shires Barcaldine, Barcoo, Blackall-Tambo, Boulia, Diamantina, Longreach and Winton form the RAPAD region of Central West Queensland. Throughout 2017, a range of natural assets and opportunities were identified across the region, that could underpin an economic transformation of the whole region – but RAPAD remained uncertain of the best path to realise this ambition. During 2018, on behalf of RAPAD, we have developed an approach that is based on empowering the community, by enhancing its self-reliance to foster regional resilience. Our strategy focuses on linking the values and aspirations of the community (identified in 2017) with the natural assets of the region, around energy, water, digital economy, food production, manufacturing, services and international markets. The approach is a bold and challenging departure from centralised government models of service, and instead is focused on servicing the needs of the community first, with expansion into multiple international markets.
From 5 November to 15 November 2018, the Women at the Well will be in the RAPAD region, seeking the views of the community to this audacious strategy. Through a range of targeted workshops, community forums and 1-1 interviews, we are hoping to hear from the community what is missing from the approach, how it could be improved – but most critically, is this the type of approach they want for their local council shire and broader regional community?
Thank you for your anticipated help in reaching the broader Central West Queensland Community, where every voice matters to this project.
Women at the Well
(Global Futuremakers, Regional Economic Solutions, The Circular Experiment)
