Community Futures Task Force
Project Progress Report
Project: ________ Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study for the Proposed Traveston Crossing Dam
Reporting Period: 4 February 2008 to 14 April 2008
Lead Agency: Department of Infrastructure and Planning
Agency Contacts: Ian Schmidt
Project Objective
The Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study for the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam will assist in informing a
long-term land use plan and infrastructure program for the Mary Valley region. This will include investigating the
impacts of the proposed dam on existing land uses and settlement patterns in addition to identifying and assessing
options for locating future land uses and infrastructure.
Summary of Progress
The Department of Infrastructure and Planning is currently finalising the draft Land Use and Infrastructure Planning
Study for the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam. Most of the planning study area falls within the former Cooloola
Shire, which has been amalgamated into the Gympie Regional Council; it also includes parts of the former Noosa
and Maroochy shires, as part of the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council.
The draft planning study focused particularly on the townships and localities of Kandanga, Imbil, Carters Ridge and
Federal. Between late-2006 and mid-2007, 13 community consultation meetings were held to identify residents‟
issues and concerns.
The public release of a draft Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study for the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam
has been postponed until the state and federal governments decide whether to approve the dam‟s construction.
Thereafter, the Department will review the draft Planning Study and determine the best way forward in terms of
consulting with residents and regional councils.
Key Milestones
Outcome Date to be Achieved Status
Completion of First Round of Community End 2006 Completed
Consultation on land use planning issues
Completion of Second Round of Community End May 2007 Completed
Consultation on land use planning issues
Public Release of draft Land Use and Infrastructure To be advised In Progress
Planning Study
Public Release of final Land Use and Infrastructure To be advised In Progress
Planning Study and Consultation Report
Activities outstanding at end of reporting period
Completion of the draft and finalised Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study for the proposed Traveston
Crossing Dam.
Achievements to Date
Provided feedback to community members on information obtained at community meetings;
Responded to community/other stakeholder questions regarding land use issues in the Mary Valley region and
obtained community feedback on general land use issues within the Mary Valley region;
Presented draft township concept plans to the Imbil and Kandanga communities;
Obtained community feedback on land use issues affecting Federal State School. In particular, impacts associated
with proposed highway realignment;
Organised and facilitated numerous community and reference group meetings regarding land use issues within
the Mary Valley region;
Liaised with relevant stakeholders regarding land use issues in the Mary Valley Region;
Attended and provided input into a range of committees and working groups associated with the proposed
Traveston Dam;
Sourced and co-ordinated relevant consultants to undertake technical projects associated with progressing the
Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study for the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam;
Consulted with the relevant shire councils, State agencies and Queensland Water Infrastructure to discuss land
use and infrastructure planning matters in relation to the draft Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study; and
Prepared an update and response to „Frequently Asked Questions and Answers‟ in relation to the Land Use
and Infrastructure Planning Study for the Community Futures Task Force Newsletter – Issue 14.
Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder Date Outcome of Consultation
Kandanga 21 Nov 2006 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
Imbil/Brooloo 5 Dec 2006 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 8pm)
Carters Ridge 7 Dec 2006 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 8pm)
Federal 21 March 2007 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 8pm)
Carters Ridge 26 March 2007 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 8pm)
Kandanga 28 March 2007 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 9pm)
Federal – school community 3 April 2007 Obtain community feedback on land use issues affecting Federal
(3pm to 5pm) State School
Imbil/Brooloo 4 April 2007 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 8pm)
Kandanga 11 April 2007 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 9pm)
Imbil/Brooloo 2 May 2007 Present draft township Concept Plans to community
(6pm to 8pm)
Federal – school community 3 May 2007 Obtain community feedback on land use issues affecting Federal
(3pm to 5pm) State School. In particular, impacts associated with proposed
highway realignment
Federal 9 May 2007 Obtain community feedback on general land use issues
(6pm to 8pm)
Kandanga 29 May 2007 Present draft township Concept Plans to community
(6pm to 8pm)
Kandanga/ Imbil To date numerous meetings have been held with reference groups from Kandanga and
Imbil on land use planning issues
Project Progress Report
Project: Wyaralong Land Use and Infrastructure Study
Reporting Period: 4 February 2008 to 14 April 2008
Lead Agency: Department of Infrastructure and Planning
Agency Contacts: Ian Schmidt, David Heyden
Project Objective
The Land Use and Infrastructure Planning Study for the Wyaralong Dam will identify the direct and indirect impacts
of the proposed Wyaralong Dam on existing land uses, settlement patterns and infrastructure and identify strategies
to maximise opportunities created by the dam. The study will also investigate means of implementing land use plan
and infrastructure strategies, such as through the introduction of rural precincts plans and amendments to local
government planning schemes.
Summary of Progress
Department of Infrastructure & Planning (Southern Region Division) has undertaken preliminary discussions with
the former Boonah and Beaudesert Shire councils and several State agencies to identify interests in the Wyaralong
area and to provide input into the process. A draft Terms of Reference will be made available to key stakeholders in
April 2008.
It is intended that the draft planning study be released for community consultation in August/September 2008 with a
final planning study to be completed by the end of 2008.
Key Milestones
Outcome Date to be Achieved Status
Collation of background information End April 2008 In progress
Initial consultation with key stakeholders April/May 2008 In progress
Completion of draft Study End May 2008 In progress
Review of draft Study by Stakeholders Early Aug 2008 Not commenced
Release of draft for public review End Aug 2008 Not commenced
Release of final study for public review End Oct 2008 Not commenced
Activities outstanding at end of reporting period
As per Milestone, above.
Achievements to Date
Defined project scope and limitations.
Developed project programme.
Commenced background information collation.
Developed key stakeholder consultation plan.
Stakeholder Consultation
Meeting with Boonah Futures group week of 14 April 2008.
Consultation with local key stakeholders week of 14 April 2008.
Consultation with key stakeholder agencies from 14 April 2008..
Project Progress Report
Project: Imbil Recreation Area – Concept Master Plan and Impact Assessment
Reporting Period: 5 February 2008 to 10 April 2008
Lead Agency: Department of Local Government, Sport and Recreation (DLGSR)
Collaborating Agency/Organisation: Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry (DTRDI),
Gympie Regional Council (GRC), Community Futures Task Force (CFTF).
Agency Contacts: Stephen White (Regional Manager), Matthew Horder (Senior Development Officer)
Project Objective
The purpose of the project is to examine the demand for and possible uses of the Imbil Recreation Area, a 9.4
hectare parcel of land adjacent to the existing Mary Valley Showgrounds in Imbil. The planning project will provide
a Concept Master Plan for future development of recreation activities at the Imbil Recreation Area, investigate the
economic and community impacts of the facility on Imbil and surrounding communities and determine the feasibility
of establishing activities that may attract and support regional, State or National events.
Summary of Progress
A Discussion Paper has been finalised and the stakeholder consultation program has commenced. Preliminary
concepts are now being developed.
Activity Report
The Consultancy formally commenced during February 2008.
Background research including data collection and literature review has been completed by the Consultant.
A Discussion Paper was finalised on 13 March 2008.
A Community Forum was held on 18 March 2008. This meeting was well attended with approximately 30
participants, representing 17 organisations as well as the general community.
A benchmarking analysis for other venues and facilities has been completed by the Consultant.
The next stage of the project is to conduct a potential user survey followed by the preparation of the
preliminary Concept Master Plan. This will be followed by the next stage of the stakeholder consultation
program (public display and feedback).
Key Milestones
Outcome Date to be Achieved Status
Consultation with all Parties and Project Brief 28 September 2007 Completed
Finalisation
Project Brief to Tender 2 October 2007 Completed
Tenders Close 23 October 2007 Completed
Brief to Minister for Sport requesting appointment of 12 November 2007 Completed
Selected Tenderer.
Project Commencement Mid November 2007 Completed
Draft Discussion Paper (for the Imbil Recreation Mid February 2008 Completed
Area)
Outcome Date to be Achieved Status
Draft Concept Master Plan (for the Imbil Recreation End April 2008 Revised to early May
Area) 2008
Draft Community and Economic Impact Report (for End May 2008 On schedule
the Imbil Recreation Area)
Draft Feasibility and Management Report (for the End June 2008 On schedule
Imbil Recreation Area)
Final Master Plan and Impact Assessment Study End July 2008 On schedule
Report (for the Imbil Recreation Area)
Achievements to Date
DLGSR, DTRDI and CFTF each agreed to commit $15,000 towards the total project cost of $45,000.
DLGSR has co-ordinated stakeholder input, planning brief finalised, tender finalised and consultant
appointed.
A Discussion Paper was finalised on 13 March 2008.
Stakeholder consultation program commenced during March 2008.
Stakeholder Consultation
The stakeholder consultation program has commenced with approximately 30 participants, representing 17
organisations as well as the general community attending the Community Forum held on 18 March 2008. The next
phase of the stakeholder consultation program will involve a public display and feedback session for the preliminary
Concept Master Plan during May 2008.
Project Progress Report
Project: Economic Futures – Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry component
and Business Adjustment Scheme and Worker Assistance Program
Reporting Period: 1 February 2008 to 30 March 2008
Lead Agency: Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry
Agency Contacts: Craig Humphrey, Gary Warrener, Lynne Wilbraham, David Stubbin, Lara Tabua, Bridget
Edwards, Celena Ross, Susan Jensen, Shaun Leggate.
Project Objective
To assist the communities in the vicinity of the proposed Traveston Crossing and Wyaralong Dams to gain
significant economic benefit from these projects and associated infrastructure works; to assist businesses and
workers impacted by the government‟s decision to build the dams; and to provide information and build economic
development capacity to facilitate local businesses to participate in the emerging opportunities.
Summary of Achievements
Imbil Business Retention and Expansion project - Volunteers to undertake the data collection phase of the
project have been recruited.
5 Major Project Opportunity and Business Development seminars were conducted in Gympie and the Mary
Valley
2 Major Project Opportunity and Business Development seminars were conducted in Nambour to mirror the
seminars conducted in Gympie
Boonah District Business Retention and Expansion Project progressing with planned activities such as
“Boonah CBD Walkabout” by local business and community representatives and a “first impressions
survey” with visitor participation.
The Catalogue of Scenic Rim District‟s Natural Assets Project is progressing in conjunction with Tourism
Queensland, with photographic work being completed.
The Scenic Rim Tourism Project has identified two “tourist drive loops” within the region which will be
featured in the Scenic Rim Touring Guide which will be produced in May.
Activity Report
Business Adjustment Scheme
The total number of Business Adjustment Scheme applications received from the Traveston Crossing area,
by Category as at 18 March 2008, is as follows:
Fund Type Applications Received to Date
DTRDI DPIF Total
Business Advice 27 2 29
Business Restructure 16 3 19
Business Exit 9 1 10
Total 52 6 58
Note: Applications Received for DTRDI includes two applications withdrawn by the same client, one for Business
Advice Assistance and one for Business Restructure Assistance.
Worker’s Assistance Program
Nine (9) individuals have requested assistance in the Traveston Crossing area through the Worker
Assistance Program. To date no applications have been received from the Wyaralong area.
Projects to mitigate the economic impacts of the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam
Business Opportunity and Capacity Development – Sunshine Coast and Maryborough Regional Offices
are working with key stakeholders to raise awareness regarding supply opportunities pre, during and post
construction of the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam.
Regional Development Officers are also collaborating closely with QWI, AIEMnet, key industry stakeholders
and government departments to ensure that business and industry are informed of potential economic and
business development opportunities which may arise as a result of the supply opportunities.
Local Industry Policy – Officers are assisting local businesses registered with QWI Pty Ltd to complete
and lodge their business capability statements. This will assist lead contractors to form alliances and supply
arrangements with local businesses if Traveston Crossing dam proceeds
Business development –
o One-on-one business client meetings are being conducted, as required to discuss business
opportunities and issues; Departmental assistance and information is provided as appropriate –
Meetings held with 55 clients during the reporting period.
o Business and industry development workshops are being delivered in the Cooloola Region and
Mary Valley in conjunction with key government agencies and stakeholders. Workshops delivered
during the reporting period:
● Gympie and Mary Valley –
o Workplace Health and Safety - 16 attendees
o Building Strategic Alliances - 14 attendees
o Not Just Quality Assurance - 12 attendees
o Capture that Contract - 15 attendees
o Effective Promotions - Carters Ridge - 20 attendees
o Accommodation Forum - 50 attendees
o Tendering for Success - 10 attendees
o Mentoring for Growth Session – 1 Mary Valley Business participated
Sunshine Coast
o Strategic Alliances workshop – 44 attended
o Capture that Contract – 60 attendees
Mary Valley Business Expansion and Retention Program – Margaret Darveniza, of Tropic Education
and Training Consultants Pty Ltd is providing technical leadership for this project. Mrs Kaili Parker Price has
been appointed as the local coordinator for the project. The Mary Valley BEAR Lead Team committee are
developing the questions for the business survey and have developed flyers to raise awareness of the
program and to assist in attracting volunteers to undertake the data collection phase for the project.
Cooloola Shire Industrial Land Strategy – It is anticipated that a contract for this project will be executed
within the next week. This project is a joint initiative between the:
o Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry (Project Manager);
o Department of Infrastructure and Planning;
o Community Futures Taskforce;
o Cooloola Shire Council.
Imbil Artists – Imbil artists are displaying and selling their art at the Imbil Business Hub. Imbil Artists have
submitted a development application to Cooloola Shire Council to establish premises in the old Imbil Church
and are waiting the outcome of this application.
Accommodation Services expansion/ establishment – A workshop on Planning and Regulatory
Requirements for those interested in the establishment or expansion of B&B, Farmstay and short term
accommodation in the Cooloola Region was conducted on 3 April 2008.
50 people attended, 6 suppliers also supplied marketing materials. A large proportion of participants
indicated that they are thinking of/interested in B&B's, farm stays or cabins. Discussion on follow up
workshops to be considered from feedback from attendees. Topics could include marketing, business
planning & e-commerce for accommodation businesses.
Tourism Industry Development – Working with key stakeholders to assist in the development of skills
strategies for the region.
Mary Valley Heritage Railway Association – Working with key stakeholders to develop a business
development and action plan with the Mary Valley Heritage Railway Association.
Projects to build the economic capacity of the region surrounding the proposed Wyaralong Dam
Boonah Shire Futures study – Boonah Shire Council has appointed Starfire Solutions to manage this
project. Starfire Solutions are managing the project with guidance from the Boonah District and Enterprise
Board.
Project Progress
A Business Retention and Starfire Solutions have conducted a strategic planning
Expansion project for Boonah and workshop with the local Chamber of Commerce.
District
Development of a Rural Industry Starfire Solutions are in discussions with OUM, seeking
Precinct business case financial support for this project and their involvement in it.
Development of a natural assets Starfire Solutions has engaged Gary Kerr to develop a
catalogue for the scenic rim photographic catalogue of the key natural assets of the
scenic rim. Photographic shoot will occur in June.
Preparation of an investment Conics consultants have been engaged to deliver an
profile for Boonah and district industry gap analysis for the investment profile.(This will
form part of the Rural Industry Precinct Business Case)
The Boonah Shire Futures project is a joint initiative between the:
o Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry (Project Manager);
o Department of Infrastructure and Planning;
o Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries;
o Department of Natural Resources and Water;
o Scenic Rim Regional Council.
Key Milestones
Outcome Date to be Achieved Status
Business Retention and Expansion project for Imbil November 2008 The Imbil Development
Group have recruited
volunteers for a Lead
Team to develop a
comprehensive survey
Boonah Shire Futures study November 2008 Boonah Shire Council
has contracted Starfire
Solutions to manage this
project
TBA
Gympie Industrial Land Strategy Processes to appoint a
contractor are
underway.
Achievements to Date
Scoping Economic Futures – Traveston Crossing Region report completed.
Mary Valley Economic Development Strategy report was completed.
A Department of State Development Office and Officer has been established in Gympie Regional Council
Local Government area.
58 businesses and 9 individual workers have requested assistance in the Traveston Crossing area through
the Business Adjustment Scheme and Worker Assistance Program. To date no applications have been
received from the Wyaralong area.
Scoping Economic Futures – Wyaralong Region report is completed.
Imbil Artist‟s initial collection of art and creative goods are on display for sale at the Imbil Business Hub.
The Boonah and District Enterprise Board has been established.
Business and industry capability development workshops delivered in the Gympie Region during the
reporting period: (7 Workshops – 137 attendees)
Activities Outstanding at End of Reporting Period
Value Adding to Timber – The investigation of value adding timber processing projects is expected to
commence in 2008.
Workshops and activities planned to be delivered in the Gympie Region in April and May 2008 include:
o Project Management
o Tendering for Success
o Mentoring 4 Growth meeting
o AIEMnet capability forums
Cooloola Region Investment Prospectus – A project plan for this project and Terms of Reference for the
project is being prepared.
Project Progress Report
Project: Mary Valley and Scenic Rim Tourism Projects
Reporting Period: 4 February 2008 to 14 April 2008
Lead Agency: Tourism Queensland (TQ)
Agency Contacts: Monica Groenert, Krista Hauritz and Therese Phillips
Project Objectives
To identify and map current tourism product in the Mary Valley and in the Scenic Rim, and to identify and implement
priority tourism development, marketing and training initiatives for the two regions.
Summary of Progress
The Mary Valley and Scenic Rim Tourism Projects are continuing.
Activity Report
Mary Valley Tourism Project:
The draft Mary Valley Skills Survey report and recommendations are being reviewed and revised by the
Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) and the consultant. The report is expected to be finalised
mid-April. TQ and QTIC will coordinate a meeting with survey participants, the Project Steering Group and
other key stakeholders in May to present the findings.
TQ met with the Economic Profile & Future Outlook Working Group on 3 April to present an overview of the
Mary Valley Tourism Project, discuss the (draft) Mary Valley Tourism Action Plan and process for
government agency consultation and implementation.
Scenic Rim Tourism Project:
The consultant appointed to prepare the Scenic Rim Tourism Audit made a presentation to the Scenic Rim
Tourism Advisory Group in mid-February. The Group was asked to provide feedback on the ideas in the
presentation, and very positive feedback was received from all involved. It is anticipated the final report will
be available in April.
The Industry Training component of the Scenic Rim Tourism Project is continuing, with the audit component
now complete. Initial limited operator response to the survey resulted in the delay of the draft report,
however at the close of consultation, 20 completed surveys were received, three local tourism committee
meetings were attended, and one dedicated focus group was held. The draft report has now been received
and will be finalised with QTIC in the coming weeks.
Representative of Regional Development invited to be part of the Steering Committee.
Key Milestones
Outcome Date to be Status
Achieved
Mary Valley Skills and Training Audit report End April 2008 Draft report being reviewed by QTIC &
TQ
Government agency consultation on Draft Mary End May 2008 Underway
Valley Tourism Action Plan
Draft Scenic Rim Tourism Action Plan completed April 2008 Analysis
Scenic Rim Skills and Training Audit April 2008 Draft report being reviewed by TQ and
QTIC
Scenic Rim Marketing Plan finalised April 2008 Steering Committee to approve
(meeting held mid-April)
Stakeholder Consultation – Mary Valley
Stakeholder Date Outcome of Consultation
Tourism Queensland (TQ) met with Tourism
Sunshine Coast and Queensland Water and February
Agreement to establish an MOU
Infrastructure (QWI) to discuss the (draft) Mary 2008
Valley Tourism Action Plan and implementation
TQ provided overview of Mary Valley Tourism
Economic Profile & Future Outlook Working Group Project, discussed the (draft) Mary Valley
3/04/08
meeting Tourism Action Plan including agency
consultation and project implementation
Stakeholder Consultation – Scenic Rim
Stakeholder Date Outcome of Consultation
Maj Gen Peter Arnison and Local Presentation on progress of Scenic Rim
14 April 2008
Government Mayors Tourism Project
Scenic Rim Tourism Project Steering 11 April Sign-off on Marketing Plan, information on
Committee 2008 Skills Audit provided
Boonah and Beaudesert Tourism Action 29 February Presentation of ideas for the Scenic Rim
Plan stakeholder meeting 2008 Tourism Action Plan by consultant
Ipswich Tourism Action Plan stakeholder 26 February Presentation of ideas for the Scenic Rim
meeting 2008 Tourism Action Plan by consultant
Beaudesert, Boonah and Ipswich Local 13 February Presentation of ideas for the Scenic Rim
Governments (BBI) 2008 Tourism Action Plan by consultant
13 February Presentation of ideas for the Scenic Rim
Scenic Rim Tourism Action Group
2008 Tourism Action Plan by consultant
Project Progress Report
Project: Economic Futures Project (Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries component)
Reporting Period: 5 February – 14 April 2008
Lead Agency: Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries
Agency Contact/s: Primary – Jason Keating; Secondary – John Switala, Liz Dalley
Project Objective
To assist the communities in the vicinity of the proposed Traveston Crossing and Wyaralong Dams to gain
significant economic benefit from the dam developments and associated infrastructure;
to provide information to, and build economic development capacity of primary producers in the region; and
to facilitate the participation of primary producers in the emerging opportunities.
Summary of Achievements
DPIF has developed a strategic plan structured around 4 Key Performance Areas:
1. Adjustment
2. Economic Development
3. Agribusiness Partnerships
4. Policy coordination and Advice
During March, DPI&F and DTRDI agreed to collaborate to undertake an Agribusiness Audit within the local area
(and a subsequent selective audit/survey extending to SE QLD), DTRDI offered assistance with contacts and past
experiences.
Dairy industry - Recently completed draft report aimed to showcase opportunities for dairy.
Activity Report
DPIF is delivering projects outlined in the Food and Fibres Strategic Plan including: the production of a Region
Agribusiness Audit and the production of Region Resource Guides. Other activities that will build on these initial
initiatives will include the production of a suite of agribusiness investment dossiers that will be used to attract
relevant investors to the region. Also included in the partnership plan is the establishment of a number of landholder
incentive schemes to manage terrestrial weeds and riparian vegetation.
DPIF has established a partnership with the Cedar Hill Corporate Group, a large native flower export, wholesale
nursery and consulting company at Palmwoods which has resulted in an agreement to establish field trials for native
floriculture production at the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam site.
DPIF has identified a suitable program that will harness rural enterprise development and is in the process of
commissioning a scoping study for a Farm and Nature Based Business Development Program for the Mary Valley
region. The project focus will be on the Mary Valley region but based on the findings of the scoping study the
program could expand to cater for a wider geographic area.
Business Adjustment – A new DPI Industry Development Officer Client Service Charter for SEQ Dams has been
drafted. The charter is essentially a contract between the client and DPI&F and specifies client and DPI&F roles.
DPI&F is also in the process of finalising a client data base which will enable better reporting and development of
case studies and assessment of the primary producer needs.
There have been no enquiries from the Wyaralong region although information about the services has been made
available through the Scenic Rim Regional Council.
Key Milestones
Outcome Date to be Achieved Status
KPA – Adjustment December 2007 Completed for all dairy
enterprises to be inundated
Project Activity 2.: Information and Advice B and which responded
positively to DPI&F contact.
Purpose: Needs assessment of dairy enterprises
impacted by the dams will identify the individual Additional DPI&F dairy
intentions of impacted farms and enable the industry activities within the
development of effective assistance strategies Mary are planned in response
to some of the identified
needs.
KPA – Economic Development Early 2008 A draft report for public release
is being produced.
Project Activity 1:Region Agribusiness Audit
Additional commitments to the
Purpose: Future dairy industry scenarios dairy industry by DPI&F have
been negotiated for 2008 for
the Mary Region. These
include establishment of a
QDAS group, establishment of
young dairy farmer‟s group
and coordinator appointed
Commenced August 2007.
Revised project framework
Food and Fibre Future Strategic Plan July 2009 completed. New framework
accommodates additional
project activities funded
internally and externally
KPA – Economic Development Ongoing till 2009 This project is presently being
amended to support project
Project Activity 2 Region Resource Guide activities within strategic plan
Purpose: Resource mapping and use of GIS information
and products as a basis for investment attraction to the
Mary.
KPA - Adjustment Ongoing during life of The focus of this role may be
project amended to reflect the
Project Activity 1 – Case Management changing project dynamics.
Purpose: Support to assist producers to access
government services effectively (such as, providing
assistance with gaining approvals or identifying the
appropriate agencies)
Achievements to Date
Draft Food and Fibre Futures report outlining potential scenarios for agribusiness in the region of the proposed
Traveston Crossing Dam. The findings will inform an investment prospectus for the Mary Valley.
A comprehensive analysis of the impacts on the dairy industry from developments in South East Queensland
has been developed. The analysis outlines trends within the industry and implications for the supply of fresh
milk for SEQ. Consultation with the dairy industry occurred in November and December 2007 and currently
with milk processors (December 2007 & January and February 2008). Finalisation of the document and a
version suitable for public release in progress.
Provision of information and advice to 37 producers who will be directly affected by the development of dam at
Traveston Crossing.
Endorsement of revised Food and Fibres Project Strategic Plan.
Future Activities
Immediate: Production of Region Agribusiness Audit
Immediate: Production of Region Resource Guide.
Extension: A range of training activities for primary producers is being scoped for the region that may include a
MYOB cash book course, a primary industry specific Mentoring for Growth program modelled on the existing
DTRDI program, and agritourism training in collaboration with Tourism Queensland for businesses. This
training will enhance farm management capabilities and strengthen the future employability of participants.
Further courses are planned for other farm management and business planning skills. In addition, DPI&F is
scoping the feasibility of developing agri-business development programs for both the regions affected by the
proposed Wyaralong and Traveston Crossing dams.
DPI&F continues to host the regular Economic Profile and Futures Outlook Working Group, and with DTRDI, to
co-host officer liaison group meetings which facilitate communication and collaboration between agencies
regarding projects and issues for the proposed South East Queensland Dams. The structure, function and
frequency of working group meetings is being assessed.
The draft report on the dairy industry in south east Queensland is now complete. A public document is being
produced, which will be considered by senior management prior to release. This is expected to occur in the
June quarter.
Activities Outstanding at End of Reporting Period
Detailed project Plans to reflect key projects nominated in Food and Fibres Strategic Plan.
Identification and partnership brokering of appropriate commercial operatives that can assist new industry
development relevant to agribusiness in region.
Completion of Draft Terms of Reference for Region Resource Guide and Agribusiness Audit.
Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder Date Outcome of Consultation
Cedar Hills Feb - March Brokerage of Agribusiness Partnerships for to
stimulate region investment and new crop
development. Native Floriculture
Australian Macadamia March Assessment and exploring opportunities for new
Association varieties demonstration trail in region.
Starnarm Farms March Brokerage of Agribusiness Partnerships to
stimulate region investment and new crop
development. Nuts
Project Progress Report
Project: Community Support
Reporting Period: February and March 2008
Lead Agency: Department of Communities
Agency Contact/s: Mr Peter Ryan, Ms Jennifer Scott
Project Objective
To deliver immediate and ongoing community support and specialised community development and engagement
activities and provide a coordinated response to the social needs of the communities affected by the proposed
Traveston Crossing and Wyaralong Dams.
Summary of Progress
In the reporting period, the Department of Communities has:
provided information and referral services from the Kandanga One Stop Shop (KOSS);
funded Lifeline counselling services in the Mary Valley (full-time service) and Boonah (as needed);
managed community development activities and projects and facilitated funding applications;
coordinated the Regional Services Forum (RSF) and projects.
Activity Report
TRAVESTON CROSSING DAM
Kandanga One Stop Shop (KOSS) community contacts:
Since establishment of the department‟s services in Kandanga in July 2006 to 28 March 2008 inclusive there
have been 3,794 community contacts.
There were 226 contacts in the reporting period, comprising 136 for community development (60% of activity)
and 90 for referrals/information (40% of activity). Referrals/information contacts included requests for maps
of the impacted area and enquiries about land acquisition, road relocations, rental contracts with Queensland
Water Infrastructure Pty Ltd (QWI) and the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
Community development/project activities:
The following priority projects were progressed In the reporting period:
o Community Job Placement – Horticultural Program – expected completion October 2008;
o Mary Valley Community Transport Needs Analysis – expected completion June 2008;
o Oral History Project – expected completion June 2008;
o Mary Valley Artists‟ Gallery – expected completion June 2008.
The Community Development and Engagement Officer (CDEO) assisted community organisations with
seven funding applications for both the Community Futures Fund (CFF) and the Q150 Community
Funding Program. The Q150 program provides grants to not-for-profit incorporated community
organisations of between $2,000 and $10,000 for eligible projects which celebrate and commemorate
th
Queensland‟s 150 anniversary.
During the reporting period, the CDEO and KOSS Lifeline counsellors arranged workshops in change
management and non-violent communication.
Counselling:
There were 23 new counselling clients and 76 personal and financial counselling sessions held in
March 2008. Personal enquiries primarily related to clients‟ relationship challenges, with a small
number of clients showing suicidal ideation. Clients are also presenting with financial issues resulting
from rising housing costs, fuel and food prices.
During the reporting period, the Lifeline counsellors and CDEO arranged workshops in change
management and non-violent communication for community members.
A part-time Counsellor was employed by Lifeline at the KOSS in March 2008 to enhance the depth of
skills required to respond effectively to changing personal needs in the Mary Valley.
Regional Services Forum:
The Regional Services Forum (RSF) met twice in the reporting period (7 February and 6 March 2008).
In line with the role of the RSF as a clearing house for identification and delegation of project
responsibilities, one new project was identified – working with the Mary Valley Heritage Railway to
enhance the Rattler experience. This project will be coordinated by the Community Futures Task
Force (CFTF) and require support from a range of agencies.
The next meeting of the RSF will be held on Thursday 24 April 2008.
WYARALONG DAM
Community contacts:
Since establishment of the department‟s services in Boonah to 28 March 2008 inclusive there have been
159 community contacts, with one contact received in the reporting period (requests for maps and information
about the EIS).
Activities Outstanding at End of Reporting Period
Community development projects (ongoing).
Appointment of new KOSS staff (Administration Officer, Case Manager and Principal Project Officer) (by May
2008).
The KOSS staff are currently working with the CFTF unit to identify social issues which may present as the
project reaches future milestones, and determining the social responses which will be necessary to address
potential impact.
Key Milestones
Date to be
Outcome Achieved Status
Oral History Project June 2008 Facilitating development of digital stories; identifying
options for secure storage and back-up of recordings;
facilitating funding applications for identified outcomes,
products and/or events.
Mary Valley Community Transport June 2008 Consultant‟s brief developed; steering committee to be
Needs Analysis formed to select and appoint consultant.
Community Job Placement – October 2008 Facilitating community support letters; assessment of
Horticultural Program program by Department of Employment and Industrial
(18 week program) Relations; preparation of promotional material; appointing
trainer and selecting candidates.
Stakeholder Consultation
Ongoing consultation with Lifeline Sunshine Coast and Lifeline Ipswich and West Moreton in relation to
service provision to residents affected by the proposed dams.
Monthly meetings of the Regional Services Forum to monitor and address issues of concern to Mary Valley
residents and develop mitigation strategies.
Regular consultation with Gympie Regional Council and Mary Valley organisations in relation to community-
based projects.
Weekly consultation with the Scenic Rim Regional Council and Fassifern Community Centre to ensure
updated information about the proposed Wyaralong Dam is available and to monitor contacts.
Projected Achievements – 2008-09
Continued operation of the KOSS to provide a local state government presence and provide information and
referral services (ongoing for the term of the project).
Lifeline counselling services in the Mary Valley and Boonah regions and availability of emergency relief
payments as required (ongoing for the term of the project).
Community development activities in the Mary Valley and assistance to the community on funding
applications (ongoing for the term of the project).
Increased project management and local support to the CFTF through replacement of Principal Project
Officer (May 2008), improved operational support (through appointment of Administration Officer (May 2008),
and enhanced specialised capacity to support residents whose circumstances require coordination of issues
across a range of agencies through appointment of Case Manager (May 2008).