In late 1999, when the Queensland Government announced that the $570 million Tarong North power station would be built, Kingaroy Shire Council swung into action to stimulate the opportunities arising from this major infrastructure project.As a result Council, in partnership with adjoining Nanango and Rosalie Shire Councils and with support from local businesses, community groups and the Department of State Development, created the Tarong Business Program.
“The Program was designed as a link between the local community, especially small businesses, and the numerous contractors and sub contractors engaged with the project,” said Kingaroy Shire Council’s Manager Economic Development, Vaughn Prasser.
Council strategically established the offices of the Tarong Business Program on the site of the new power station. This made it a convenient one stop shop that contractors could access.
“The office developed resources designed to assist interstate and international companies to source goods, services and labour locally,” he said.“A newsletter, Tarong Links, promoting local businesses was also distributed on and off site.”
What was also developed was a database of local businesses which was then distributed to the major contractors. The database was later transferred to a website www.southburnett.biz. This has provided greater convenience for contractors.
“Feedback from contractors has been positive with several mentioning they wished a similar scheme had been in place at other major projects,” Vaughn Prasser said. “The Tarong Business Program proves Local Government can take the initiative to maximise the benefits of a major infrastructure for a region.”
For further information, contact Vaughn Prasser on (07) 4162 6222.
