Toowoomba to host National Summit
Toowoomba has been selected as the location for the new look SEGRA Summit which will showcase some of the key economic drivers from the region including:
Transport and Logistics: Toowoomba is strategically located at the intersection of major highways and rail lines, making it an important transport and logistics hub for the region. An example of its significance is the new Wellcamp Airport, opened in 2014. It is the first privately-funded public airport in Australia, operated by the Wagner Corporation. Wellcamp Airport has become a significant economic driver for the region, providing an alternative air transport option to Brisbane and creating jobs in the aviation industry. The airport has a 2.87-kilometer runway, making it the third-longest in Australia and capable of handling large cargo and passenger aircraft.
Agriculture: Toowoomba is known as the “Garden City” due to its rich agricultural land and farming activities. The region produces a range of crops, including grains, vegetables, fruits, and livestock, which contribute significantly to the local economy.
Education and Healthcare: Toowoomba is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Southern Queensland, which offers a range of courses and attracts students from across Australia and the world. The Regional Council also has a growing healthcare sector, with several hospitals, medical centres, and specialist clinics.
Manufacturing: Toowoomba has a thriving manufacturing sector, with several companies specializing in food processing such as meat and poultry processing, specialist precision engineering and machinery manufacturing, as well as a growing construction industry.
Tourism: Toowoomba is a popular tourist destination, with several attractions, including the Carnival of Flowers, museums including Cob and Co, and gardens. For further information head to Visit Toowoomba
Toowoomba Chamber Chief Executive Officer, Todd Rohl said, “We consider the Summit as a win for local businesses in the context of continued interest rate hikes and cost of living pressures which are impacting local consumer spending.
“It is also brilliant to have the commitment from several Albanese government portfolios to attend the Summit, including Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP.
“The Summit will allow Toowoomba and the region to achieve national exposure and promotion.
“Special thanks to the collaboration and hard work of the SEGRA team and Kim Donaldson who leads our Toowoomba Conferences portfolio, a Toowoomba Regional Council initiative powered by the Toowoomba Chamber.
Toowoomba Summit Working Group: Kim Donaldson (Toowoomba Events), Jennifer Rix (RDA Darling Downs and South West), Caroline Robinson (SEGRA Foundation), Todd Rohl (Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce), Tony Bowman (Toowoomba Regional Council)