A PLEDGE has been made by the new Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast chair Peter Gandolfi, to focus on promoting the South East as an attractive place to do business and invest.
A refocus is set to be made on growing a strong and confident economy.
In the wake of last year’s reforms to the RDA program, Mr Gandolfi said he would do this while harnessing the region’s competitive advantages.
The suite of reforms included the development of a new charter that focuses on facilitating economic development by creating local jobs, attracting investment and driving innovation.
Mr Gandolfi, who served on the RDA before the implementation of the new charter, welcomed the new direction of the board.
“Personally, I believe the RDA’s role will assist businesses with their growth and attract capital to the region, expand our industries and create economic growth and employment opportunities,” he said.
“We have the opportunity to further value add to our products, but also attract investment to further intensify our farming practices in areas such as horticulture.
“Geographically, we are situated in a prime location halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide, but also our climate and soils give us a natural advantage over other areas of the country.”
Mr Gandolfi said the board was in the process of undertaking a region-wide infrastructure audit to ensure it can underpin gains in productivity and contribute to economic growth.
“The infrastructure audit is looking at what infrastructure needs to be in place to attract investment and that could range from essential services such as energy infrastructure to our roads and bridge network,” he said.
“Across the board, we are undertaking a regional prospectus which will highlight the opportunities throughout the entire Limestone Coast.
“The RDA has sought input and will continue to seek input from various stakeholders, including local government, to identify real opportunities for investment throughout the region.”
Following Mr Gandolfi’s appointment to the role, the Wattle Range mayor said he had already started discussions with community leaders to identify key contributors to economic development.
“I have already had discussions with the Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell with what he sees as priorities for Mount Gambier and hope to progress with those projects,” Mr Gandolfi said.
“We have spoken abut the Qantas Pilot Academy, bioenergy and other opportunities.
“Along with state and local government, we will progress work in putting information together for a proposal to Qantas.”
Mr Gandolfi takes over the role from Alan Richardson, who will remain on the RDA Limestone Coast as deputy chair.
Federal Regional Development Minister John McVeigh heralded Mr Gandolfi’s appointment as chair, labelling him as the “perfect candidate” to lead the RDA Limestone Coast.
