THE future of Cape York will be thrust into the spotlight this week as industry leaders from across the Far North gather in Weipa for a region-first summit.
Under the tag Opportunities Rich, the two-day Western Cape Futures Symposium is directly backed by the Aurukun, Mapoon and Napranum councils, along with the Weipa Town Authority.
It also has the support of Rio Tinto, the WCCCA, James Cook University and TCICA, and is being administered by the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce.
WTA member Jaime Gane is the chair of the symposium and said the gathering would lead to a stronger region and greater collaboration between industry and governments.
“The Western Cape Futures Symposium provides a unique opportunity to explore potential for our region in a way which has never been done before,” she said.
“This event is the first of its kind for the region and is the product of unprecedented collaboration between the closely linked Western Cape communities of Weipa, Napranum and Mapoon, along with other key stakeholder groups, to create a united vision for the future.
“We are very excited to welcome everyone to this event, to share in a two-way learning experience for both locals and visitors alike.
“The Western Cape region presents many opportunities for sustainable growth and development in many areas, which the communities and its residents are keen to explore.
“By working together with government and industry, we can forge a path that leads to economic diversity and sustainability, to ensure that the next generations have a bright and prosperous future on the Cape.”
There are more than 30 speakers lined up for a jam-packed schedule that will see sessions staged at both the storm surge shelter in Rocky Point and the nearby Kumrumja Centre.
The full program can be downloaded from the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce website, which also includes a link to purchase last-minute tickets for interested locals.
There will also be a workshop held on Saturday morning for small businesses.
Hosted by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, and Advance Queensland, the workshop will help attendees gain an understanding of assistance to support small businesses to start, grow and employ through grants and support programs.
Contact the Chamber for more information.
