Overview
The State of the Region Roadshow is a regional engagement initiative delivered by Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland, in partnership with Regional Economic Advisory.
The Roadshow will bring current economic, workforce and investment insights directly to councils, businesses and communities across the region.
It is designed to support a shared understanding of what is driving change across Townsville, North Queensland and North West Queensland, including major projects, workforce demand, population trends and local economic opportunities.
The Regional Context
Our region is entering a period of significant opportunity, with major project investment, industry growth and national supply chain importance.
The Roadshow will help councils, industry, businesses and community stakeholders better understand:
- what is happening in the regional economy
- what major projects and industry trends are shaping future demand
- what workforce pressures and opportunities are emerging
- how local communities can prepare, respond and connect.
Roadshow Schedule
Burdekin Shire – 12 May | Townsville – 13 May | Mckinlay Shire – 19 May | Richmond Shire – 19 May | Hinchinbrook Shire – 2 June | Mount Isa – 10 June | Cloncurry Shire 15 June | Carpentaria Shire – 16 June | Burke Shire – 17 June | Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire – 17 June | Mornington Island – 18 June | Charters Towers – 24 June | Flinders Shire – 25 June | Palm Island – Date TBC
Guest Speakers
The State of the Region Roadshow brings together regional leaders and subject matter experts to share independent insights and local perspectives.
Speakers include:
- Matt Kelly (Regional Economic Advisory) – delivering independent economic analysis and regional insights
- Lisa McDonald, Chief Executive Officer, Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland – outlining regional priorities and strategic direction
- Emma Dobbins – providing local workforce insights and updates from Jobs Townsville North Queensland (Burdekin, Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Charters Towers, Palm Island)
Additional speakers and local representatives will join sessions across the region.
Public Events
Public events are being held across the region as part of the State of the Region Roadshow, providing an opportunity for local businesses, stakeholders and community members to hear directly about what is happening in their region.
These sessions will share the latest independent economic, workforce and industry insights, alongside updates on major projects and emerging opportunities. Each event will also create space for local discussion, helping to connect regional priorities with on-the-ground perspectives.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from regional organisations, industry and government representatives, as well as engage in conversation with others who are shaping the future of the region.
More information to come.
Burdekin Shire – 12 May
Join us for the Burdekin stop of the 2026 State of the Region Roadshow: Burdekin Chamber of Commerce Insights Over Coffee Event.
To register or for more info visit here.
Richmond Shire – 19 May
Hinchinbrook Shire – 2 June
Mount Isa – 10 June
Cloncurry Shire 15 June
Carpentaria Shire – 16 June
Charters Towers – 24 June
