Page 18 - BOL June 21 Edition

Bright Minds Help Plan

for Prosperity

A partnership between Moreton Bay “USC has the expertise to assist Moreton “Last week we welcomed 70 investors
Regional Council and USC will help Bay Regional Council as we have from across the country to our inaugural
respond to and overcome roadblocks experienced researchers who are aware Investors’ Forum to understand the
along the region’s path to prosperity. of the challenges and opportunities in the opportunities that lie ahead in this region,”
region and can help with identifying what Mayor Flannery said.
Starting next month, a team of USC is needed to achieve the ambitious goals
academics will use world-class research set,” she said. “With a work force that is bigger than
scenario-planning tools to shape future Ipswich, Logan and Sunshine Coast, and
regional initiatives, which will enable Lead researcher and USC Senior Lecturer an insightful plan for a robust economic
Council to monitor and manage future in Communication Dr Harry Dugmore said future, Moreton Bay Region will logically
economic and social risks. he was looking forward to beginning the be a location of interest for new industries
project soon. and investors.
Mayor Peter Flannery said collaboration
was key to achieving the Regional “Collaborative scenario planning “We wanted to make it clear that Moreton
Economy Development Strategy (REDS) provides a set of tools that can increase Bay Region is ready to do business.”
targets of a $40 billion economy, 100,000 engagement and understanding, help
news jobs and becoming one of the top envision and mitigate risk, and identify For more information about
regional innovation hubs in Australia by opportunities for growth and inclusion,” Council’s REDS, visit
2041. Dr Dugmore said. https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/
Services/Business-Investment/REDS
“It’s not ambitious to strive for a bigger, Mayor Flannery said part of the planning
bolder and brighter future for Moreton for threats is identifying opportunities.
Bay Region, however a goal without a plan
is just a wish,” Mayor Flannery said.

“What is ambitious is thinking our
economy will meet those targets without
future thought.

“Rebuilding from the impacts of COVID-19,
responding to the needs of an ageing
population and ensuring sustainable and
resilient infrastructure are just a few of the
future challenges we must plan for.

“If we get the planning right, we will be in
a better position to support our projected
700,000 residents in 20 years’ time.”

Head of USC Moreton Bay Professor Karen
Becker said the partnership between the
University and the Council would create
contingency plans for dealing with future
threats.