ECONOMIC task forces designed to create jobs and pump more dollars into Douglas Shire will investigate ways to tap into the Mossman Mill Transition Project.
Douglas Shire Council will push the project onto the agenda of its two task forces after the Federal Government committed $20 million to keep the mill running.
Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said Council’s continued support was vital to the transformation infrastructure project.
“The Mossman Mill Transitional Project has the ability to push Douglas Shire into the forefront of innovation and technology,” she said.
“Council is keen to make sure the Douglas Shire community and economy gets the most out of this exciting project.
“These taskforces will explore any training opportunities and key investment potential for our region as the Mossman Mill moves into bio-energy and feed stock processing plant.”
Economic development opportunities brought on by the Mossman Mill will be explored through the Sustainable Development and Investment Attraction Taskforce; and Study, Training and Entrepreneur Incubator Hub Taskforce.
The Federal Government funding commitment followed more than 25 meetings that Mayor Leu held with State and Federal Politicians, such as Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack.
Council also contributed $250,000 to help with the acquisition of the mill.
Douglas SHire Council Mayor Julia Leu met with Cynthia Lui and Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk
Mayor Leu said it was heartening to see strong advocacy reap rewards.
“Mossman and Tablelands Canegrowers came to Council in a time of need. We backed them and will continue to back them without hesitation,” she said.
“I want to thank Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch for his strong support and encourage the State Government to firm up their commitment.”
In 2017, Council released its Economic Development Strategy outlining our vision and work plan until 2021.
The strategy is based on extensive consultation with community, best practice research and sounds principles relating to sustainability.
The task forces will be meeting in early December.
