Mayoral Forum Sets the Scene for Business in the Shire

Published on 11 June 2022

On Thursday 9 June, Mayor Steve Allan hosted a forum for members of the Bellingen Shire business community which saw approximately 60 people attend from Dorrigo, Bellingen and Urunga.

On the back of recent engagement and feedback from the business community, the Mayor responded to the need for businesses in the Shire to feel heard and supported. 

The Forum was focused on bringing businesses together to strengthen relationships and work out how Council and business can better work together to see improved economic outcomes for the Shire given the challenges of the last few years.

A key focus of the Forum was on the new Economic Development and Tourism Plan. Presented by Nathan Pratt from NDP Economic Development, the Plan highlights the challenges and opportunities for business, presents emerging strategic themes and identifies some potential actions.

Presentations were also provided by Dr Kim Houghton, Chief Economist at the Regional Australia Institute, who talked about the importance of collaboration and the ‘liveability package’ to help combat the issue of competing for talent.

The three Business Chambers also spoke about their intentions to have greater collaboration.

The Forum ended with a panel discussion facilitated by Regional Development Australia’s, Kerry Grace, that included the three Chamber presidents, Nathan Pratt, Kellon Beard Regional Manager Business NSW, and Jillian Fryer Deputy Director Regional NSW.

Mayor, Steve Allan, was extremely pleased with how the Forum was received. “The Forum was a great way to restart our conversation with businesses”, he said.

“Businesses are a key part of any regional community’s fabric and Council is committed to working with business to ensure our communities remain economically viable and grow”, said the Mayor.