GEDC’s Regional Development staff hit the road to Ravensthorpe this week to get an update on all things happening across the Fitzgerald.
We met with CEO Nicole O’Neill and Director Paul Spencer from the Shire of Ravensthorpe to discuss drought and water security, emergency preparedness and response. The Goldfields-Esperance region is one of the most water-vulnerable regions in the country, with many communities relying on fragile water sources that are expected to become increasingly constrained into the future.
We reflected on recent fire seasons, including increasing frequency, severity and duration of fire events and how to support community and prepare for future events. The Shire of Ravensthorpe is taking initiative in this space, liaising with Government departments to ensure local facilities and resources are suitable for evacuation, refuge and emergency response.
Following the recent closure of mining operations in the Ravensthorpe region, the community and local shire have been working to diversify the local economy. Tourism is emerging as an important opportunity. With Fitzgerald River National Park on their doorstep, Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun are well positioned to attract nature-lovers and adventurers. The success of the recent Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show is a great example of this potential, with the festival attracting visitors from across Australia and around the globe. There is also significant progress on expanding tourism opportunities at Hamersley Inlet and plans for a low-impact, eco-tourism offering .
A central element of our regional development role is stakeholder engagement – connecting with local governments and community organisations, understanding their key priorities and fostering collaborative solutions to local issues.