Councillor Column With Deputy Mayor Mary Brown

It is with great excitement and privilege that I pen my first contribution to the new community newspaper – Hinchinbrook Life. There are many people who have contributed to bringing this weekly newsprint to life and I would like to express my deep gratitude to all those involved in any way.  A special thanks must go to every foundation member, whose financial commitment has enabled the vision of a community newspaper being returned to the Hinchinbrook Shire, to be realized.
As we approach the end of an exceptionally busy and challenging year within the Hinchinbrook district, it is a good time to reflect on what has been achieved in the area that is my portfolio –being Economic Development (including Tourism and Skills Development).
This year has seen a very strong focus by Council, in developing local training and skilling opportunities for residents. The major project being the development of a skills and training hub within the Shire.  
Council brings together on a monthly basis, representatives from local secondary schools, tertiary training providers, apprenticeship and workforce agencies, industry representatives and employers, through the Hinchinbrook Employment and Skills Development Reference Group. This group has identified many further education opportunities that could be pursued locally and has now submitted a funding application to establish a Regional University Hub, co-located with TAFE at their Ingham Campus. If this application is successful, many new and exciting study options will open to residents in 2025.
The school holidays and Christmas period is a time of year where visitors from around the region take the opportunity to explore neighboring communities and we welcome home family and friends to celebrate the festive season with loved ones. It is a wonderful time of year to renew friendships, welcome new residents and celebrate our community – Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

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