Council survey and planning document reveals strengths and weaknesses of Nambucca Valley economy

MORE than half of respondents to a recent Council-run survey believe the ‘overall business climate’ of the Nambucca Valley to be below average.

The survey was released as part of consultation to create one of Nambucca Valley Council’s key guiding documents, the Economic Development and Tourism Plan.

Research for the document’s creation also found that overall, earnings for individuals in the area are lower than the average for regional New South Wales.

The planning document, released last week, can be viewed on the Council’s website.

“It should be read with the understanding that it’s an aspirational strategic document that links into other more specific planning documents,” Matthew Sykes, Council’s Director of Corporate Services, told NOTA.

It directly relates to themes of the recently-released Draft Community Strategic Plan and in particular, strategies aimed at creating a ‘Thriving Local Economy’, which included: beautification of town centres and villages, supporting local businesses, managing the effects of tourism, retaining and enhancing the natural environment, and encouraging localised spending.

The Economic Development and Tourism Plan closely examines current industry and employment trends, opportunities and challenges in preparing its strategies.

“The engagement process identified strengths such as diverse industries and agriculture, the strategic location of the region (located midway between Brisbane and Sydney), affordable living costs compared to surrounding areas, tourism potential and engaged community networks, civic pride, volunteer-based support structure and resilience built as a result past natural disasters,” said Mr Sykes in his report to Council on the plan.

“Major issues currently facing the Nambucca Valley identified by respondents were promotion of the region, an ageing population, finding a balance between environment and development, attracting and retaining workers, and inadequate digital connectivity,” he said.

There were four additional tourism infrastructure needs and experiences identified: river and waterway activation such as river cruises and whale watching tours, nature-based tourism experiences such as more camping and developing the Great Koala National Park, agritourism experience such as farm tours, and more events in the region.

The plan also details economic developmental strategies for the region under the headings of ‘creating a strong local economy’, ‘an engaged, resilient industry and business community’, ‘a vibrant place to visit’ and ‘an attractive place to live’.

According to Sparrowly Group, the company contracted to develop the plan, more than 65 individuals provided input through engagement activities.

These public consultations consisted of three drop-in sessions, which had over 20 attendees, an online survey eliciting 39 responses, and online interviews with stakeholder industry groups such as Destination North Coast and NSW Farmers Association.

By Ned COWIE