Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Water Security Commitment
The Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the Queensland Government’s commitment of $3 million towards progressing the Emu Swamp Dam project, describing the announcement as an important step towards strengthening long-term water security for the Granite Belt region.
Water security has been one of the most significant challenges facing our region for decades. It is fundamental not only to agriculture, but also to business confidence, economic growth, investment attraction and community sustainability.
The Chamber has a long history of advocating for improved water security and played a leading role in the development of the original business case for the Emu Swamp Dam project. The Chamber was selected to develop the detailed business case and secured funding support to undertake that work, which was submitted to the Queensland Government in 2019.
Chamber President Michelle Feenan said the announcement was a positive step for the future of the Granite Belt.
“Businesses invest where there is certainty, and water security provides that certainty.
“Water security is important for everyone in our community. It is an economic issue. Every future business investment, every housing development, every tourism venture and every job created in our region relies on confidence that we have a secure and sustainable water supply.
“Whether it is agriculture, food production, manufacturing, tourism, hospitality, housing development or small business, every sector relies on confidence in the long-term availability of water.”
Ms Feenan said reliable water infrastructure was essential to encouraging new investment and supporting the continued expansion of existing businesses throughout the region.
“Our region has enormous potential for growth, but growth requires infrastructure. Water security is one of the most important foundations for future investment, job creation and economic development.
“As a business community, we need to be planning not only for today’s needs but for future generations. Population growth, workforce attraction, housing development and business investment all depend on confidence in our long-term water supply.”
The Chamber acknowledged the Queensland Government’s announcement and the efforts of the many individuals, businesses, industry groups and community leaders who have advocated for improved water security outcomes over many years.
“Projects of this scale are never just about today. They are about ensuring future generations have the opportunity to live, work, invest and build businesses in our region.
“The Stanthorpe and Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for initiatives that strengthen economic resilience, support local industry and provide confidence for future investment.”
The Chamber looks forward to seeing the next stages of assessment and planning undertaken and remains committed to supporting practical solutions that deliver long-term water security for the Granite Belt and Southern Downs.