RDA News

Paying Tribute to Frank Beveridge

Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland (RDA TNWQ) honours the memory of former Chair Frank Beveridge, whose passing is felt deeply across our organisation and the national RDA network. Frank’s leadership strengthened communities right across our region and ensured North and North West Queensland was strongly represented on the national stage.

Appointed by the Australian Government to the RDA TNWQ Committee in 2016, Frank served as Acting Chair from 2017 and was formally appointed Chair in 2018. During this time he worked closely with former CEO Glenys Schuntner and later Wayde Chiesa, helping steer RDA TNWQ through a period of growth and strengthening its presence across the region.

His remit covered the full footprint of RDA TNWQ from Townsville to the Burdekin, through the North West Minerals Province and out to the Gulf, ensuring every part of our region had a voice in national conversations. He was a crucial part of RDA TNWQ’s history, instrumental in establishing our presence and influence across the region, and a strong supporter of the team who always backed their work and vision for the region.

Frank worked closely with mayors and councils across North and North West Queensland. His direct engagement with local government demonstrated his ability to secure widespread support and deliver tangible outcomes that mattered to communities. He embodied the true spirit of regional economic development and was a fierce advocate for residents of rural and regional Queensland. His ability to build relationships across the aisle and gain traction for key projects was crucial to RDA TNWQ’s success as a leading regional body and was valued by all levels of government.

Frank was a cornerstone of regional economic development, a leader whose vision and drive were foundational in shaping the region’s growth and prosperity. Under his leadership, RDA TNWQ’s work gained greater prominence within the national RDA network, linking local priorities to the federal agenda and championing North and North West Queensland through initiatives such as Regions Rising.

He always focused on practical solutions that mattered to people. Among his many contributions, Frank led the local government modular housing pilot project which laid the groundwork for the Queensland Government’s Modern Methods of Construction program. He also helped secure national recognition for the region when RDA TNWQ won the RDA National Award for Investing in People for its coordinated approach to workforce development. Above all, Frank never lost sight that regional development is about people, their families, their livelihoods and their futures.

RDA TNWQ Chair Debra Burden said Frank’s leadership left an enduring mark.

“Frank’s passion for the North and North West was evident in everything he did,” Ms Burden said.
“His leadership shaped our organisation, strengthened our relationships and gave us the confidence to pursue bold opportunities. He was a trusted leader, a passionate advocate and a true partner in regional development. On behalf of the committee, I extend our deepest condolences to Sharon and the Beveridge family.”

Former RDA TNWQ CEO Wayde Chiesa said Frank combined deep local knowledge with rare leadership.

“Frank knew this region inside out, and he knew very clearly that governments had to play their part in building prosperity for North and North West Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.
“He was outcome-focused and had the unique ability to simplify the complex, bring people together and keep everyone aligned on what truly mattered. That kind of leadership is rare and it earned Frank deep trust across the region. He was an exceptional leader to work for.”

RDA TNWQ Treasurer and MITEZ CEO Maria James said Frank’s economic vision will be felt for generations.

“Frank understood that prosperity for our region depended on strong economic growth, investment attraction and job creation,” Ms James said.
“He was tireless in championing opportunities, forging partnerships and ensuring governments played their part. His legacy is one of vision turned into action, and the foundations he laid will continue to benefit communities for generations to come.”

Frank’s passing is a significant loss for our organisation and for North and North West Queensland. His vision and leadership came at a pivotal time, and his ability to bring people together ensured the region was always moving forward. His legacy is measured not only in the projects delivered, but in the trust, respect and hope he gave to others. His influence will continue to guide and inspire the communities he so proudly served.

CEO Update – Dr Lisa McDonald

Since stepping into the role of CEO, I have been engaging with stakeholders across our region, listening closely to both the opportunities and the challenges facing our communities. These conversations are giving me a deeper understanding of the region’s complexity, spanning industry, investment, business, community, and the environment and are helping to shape where RDA TNWQ can add the greatest value through our Strategic Regional Plan.

Strong partnerships and strategic collaboration remain at the heart of our success. At the Developing Northern Australia Conference (DNAC) in Cairns, our Chair, Deb Burden, and I met with fellow members of the Northern RDA Alliance (NRDAA). This collective of RDAs across Northern Australia ensures our shared priorities are heard in Canberra, with a united voice calling for greater investment in housing, critical infrastructure to support new industries and communities, and workforce solutions. At the conference, outgoing CEO Wayde Chiesa and I also presented on the work undertaken by Jobs Townsville North Queensland (JTNQ), hosted by RDA TNWQ, to assess the strategic implications of major projects and our region’s capacity to deliver the workforce required.

I was also pleased to contribute to two Jobs and Skills Australia Roundtables. Convened across the country, these forums are designed to inform JSA’s regional workforce planning framework. The work done by JTNQ, under the leadership of former Chair Dean Deighton, to clearly articulate regionally specific workforce challenges is increasingly recognised as a model of best practice. Ensuring our workforce is equipped to meet both current and future demands remains one of our top priorities.

In August, I joined my Queensland RDA counterparts to meet with representatives from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development to explore how RDAs can partner with the state to achieve stronger regional outcomes.

This quarter also marked a moment of reflection as we paid tribute to our former Chair, Frank Beveridge. His leadership and advocacy helped establish the strong regional voice that we continue to build upon today.

Looking ahead, RDA TNWQ’s focus is firmly on delivering results: strengthening regional capability, expanding workforce pathways, improving liveability, and securing the investment needed to support growth and prosperity. A vital part of this effort is our commitment to raising national awareness of North and North West Queensland’s significance, ensuring our region remains a priority in Canberra.

I am also delighted to welcome Alana Toll as our new Administration Assistant. Alana’s support will help strengthen our team’s capacity as we continue to deliver outcomes for the region. Finally, I extend my thanks once again to outgoing CEO Wayde Chiesa for his contribution to RDA TNWQ and for laying the solid foundation on which we now build.

Dr Lisa McDonald
Chief Executive Officer

Strategic Priorities for 2025-26

Our Committee has endorsed our 2025–26 Business Plan, setting a clear direction for the year ahead. This plan is more than a document , it is our roadmap for action, aligning local priorities with national objectives and ensuring our region has a strong voice in the decisions that matter.

The Business Plan sharpens our focus on five strategic priorities:

• Regional workforce development – building, attracting, and growing the skills needed for the future.

• Housing availability and affordability – tackling supply and cost challenges to support growth and liveability.

• Key industry sector engagement and support – strengthening capability, driving investment, and supporting growth in critical sectors.

• Regional liveability – making our communities places where people want to live, work, and invest.

• First Nations economic development – creating opportunities for First Nations people and communities to share in regional growth.

Delivering on these priorities will take collaboration. We will work with councils, industry, government, First Nations groups, NRM bodies, and community organisations to unlock opportunities and address challenges. We play a flexible role: supporting and amplifying existing activities that align with the priorities, while initiating new projects where there are gaps or opportunities to add value. This ensures we complement rather than duplicate the work of our partners, while focusing on practical outcomes that benefit our region locally and nationally.

Keep an eye out as we share more detail on these priorities in the coming weeks.

Developing Northern Australia Conference

The Developing Northern Australia Conference in Cairns brought together national leaders from government, industry and research to tackle the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of the north.

RDA TNWQ’s leadership team played a central role in ensuring our region’s priorities were heard and understood. Chair Debra Burden, JTNQ Chair Dean Deighton, CEO Dr Lisa McDonald and outgoing CEO Wayde Chiesa all contributed to the program.

Their presentations were not simply about profiling our work. They were about influencing national conversations.

• Dr Lisa McDonald and Wayde Chiesa outlined our evidence-based approach to workforce planning, showcasing how our environmental scan and major projects mapping underpin the proposed Regional Workforce Development Plan.

• Debra Burden joined a panel with the “original influencers” – Northern RDA Alliance Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris (Chair of RDA Greater Whitsunday) and Gary Waldon (Chair of RDA Kimberley). Together, they highlighted the importance of collaboration across councils, industry, and community to attract and retain the workforce and investment northern Australia needs.
• Dean Deighton brought the industry voice, sharing how Jobs Townsville North Queensland is aligning employers, training providers and jobseekers to meet real demand.

By contributing these perspectives it helped shape discussions on how northern Australia can prepare for rapid growth, secure the right infrastructure and build a skilled workforce that supports both local communities and the national economy.

The conference outcomes extend beyond the stage. They include stronger national partnerships, clearer alignment with government priorities and greater recognition of the north’s role in driving Australia’s future prosperity.

Building Our Workforce, Showcasing Our Region
One of the greatest challenges facing Townsville and North West Queensland is people. Attracting the right skills, retaining talent, and creating clear pathways for locals are critical if we are to deliver the billions of dollars of major projects on our horizon.

Our region is now supported by a suite of Jobs and Live platforms. Practical, place-based tools that strengthen both workforce attraction and local workforce development.

The Live North Queensland and Live North West sites tell the story of our lifestyle, communities, and opportunities, not just as places to visit, but as places to live, invest, and grow. They highlight the diversity and liveability of our towns and regions, positioning our region as a destination of choice for families and professionals.

Alongside this, the Jobs North Queensland and Jobs North West portals bring employers, training providers, and jobseekers together in one space. They don’t just advertise vacancies, they map pathways into local industries, promote apprenticeships and training, and help our region “grow our own” workforce.

Together, these platforms are more than digital tools. They are part of a regional economic development strategy, strengthening visibility for local industries, supporting councils and employers to compete for talent, and ensuring the next generation can see a future here.

In a time of tight labour markets and unprecedented investment, the ability to tell our region’s story – clearly, consistently, and credibly – is essential. Attracting skilled workers requires more than advertising jobs; it means showcasing the lifestyle and career opportunities that set our region apart, from vibrant communities and affordable living to world-class industries and career pathways that can’t be found anywhere else.

Our councils, together with NQROC and NWROC, are doing an outstanding job of championing their communities and highlighting why people should choose to live, work, and invest here. By working in partnership and amplifying these efforts through the Jobs and Live platforms, we are strengthening the visibility of local opportunities and ensuring our region can compete and succeed in attracting the skilled workforce we need.

Grant Opportunities
There are several new opportunities now open for organisations, councils, and businesses across North and North West Queensland. Each of these programs supports projects that build stronger communities, create jobs, and future-proof our region.

Explore even more opportunities via our free Grant Guru portal, where you can search, track and save grants relevant to your project or organisation.

Regional Precincts & Partnerships Program
Grants of $500,000–$5 million are available to turn regional precinct concepts into investment-ready plans. Projects may include business districts, community hubs or tourism precincts, with a focus on housing, clean energy, liveability, and First Nations inclusion.
Status: Open now.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work – Round 2
Supporting training and pathways into jobs, this refreshed program funds initiatives such as Community Work Skills, Youth Skills, First Start and more.
Closes: 9 October 2025.

Real Jobs Real Wages
Up to $15,000 is available for employers who create secure, permanent roles for jobseekers facing barriers to work. Open to small, medium and large employers across industries.
Status: Open now.

National Science Week Grants 2026
Funding of $2,000–$20,000 is available for councils, schools, community groups and not-for-profits to deliver events during National Science Week (15–23 August 2026).
Closes: 29 September 2025.

Drought Resilience Innovation Challenges
Part of the Future Drought Fund, this program offers up to $2 million per project for initiatives that strengthen resilience through natural capital, water management and community preparedness.
Closes: 22 October 2025.

How we can support you

1. Provide letters of Support to strengthen your application

2. Offer advice and guidance on grant writing

3. Connect you with regional partners to enhance collaboration

New CEO Appointed to Lead RDA Townsville and North West Queensland

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Townsville and North West Queensland has announced the appointment of Dr Lisa McDonald as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive recruitment process.

Dr McDonald brings more than 28 years of leadership experience across the agriculture, energy and economic development sectors and is currently the Project Manager for the Jobs Townsville and North Queensland (JTNQ) program.

RDA Chair Debra Burden said Dr McDonald’s appointment comes at a crucial time. “The major projects planned for the TNWQ region bring significant opportunity. However, to capture that potential, we need to expand our workforce and cater for increased demand for community services and other essential infrastructure.”

“Lisa brings a rare combination of deep regional knowledge, proven stakeholder leadership and a genuine passion for North and North West Queensland,” Ms Burden said.

“She has already made a strong impact as part of the RDA team and is well placed to lead the organisation into its next chapter. The Committee and I are confident Lisa will build on the strong foundations in place and continue to champion outcomes that matter for our communities.”

Dr McDonald said she was honoured to step into the CEO role and excited to lead RDA’s strategic work across the region.

“This is a region with enormous potential and one I care deeply about,” Dr McDonald said.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to work alongside our councils, government partners, industries and communities to ensure we’re building a strong, inclusive and sustainable future. RDA has a critical role to play in connecting policy and investment with local priorities, and I’m proud to lead that work.”

Dr McDonald holds a PhD in agriculture, as well as Master’s degrees in Business and Marketing. She previously held senior roles with Townsville Enterprise and Ergon Energy and has played a leading role in shaping workforce and industry engagement initiatives across North Queensland.

The appointment follows the earlier announcement that current CEO Wayde Chiesa would step down later this year, following four years in the role.

Ms Burden acknowledged Mr Chiesa’s contribution and leadership during a time of growth and strategic renewal.
“Wayde has been an outstanding leader for RDA, building strong partnerships, delivering impactful projects, and positioning the organisation to thrive into the future,” Ms Burden said. “On behalf of the Committee, I want to sincerely thank him for his service and dedication.”

Dr McDonald will formally commence as CEO from 21 July 2025, with Mr Chiesa remaining on to support a smooth handover during the transition period.

RDA Committee Announcement

New Leaders Appointed to Drive Regional Investment and Growth

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Townsville and North West Queensland has appointed three new members to its committee, strengthening the organisation’s focus on infrastructure, workforce and investment outcomes across the region.

Mount Isa Mayor Peta MacRae, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA) Chief Executive – Strategy and Engagement Anthony Curro have joined the committee at a time of major opportunity for the region.

Their appointments coincide with key projects such as CopperString, growing workforce needs and increased demand for coordinated regional advocacy and investment attraction.

RDA Townsville and North West Queensland Chair Debra Burden said the new members would play a vital role in advancing the region’s strategic direction.

“Each of our new members brings unique strengths, deep local insight and proven leadership,” Ms Burden said.
“They will help build on the momentum already underway and support our work to strengthen regional collaboration, attract and retain skilled workers, and secure long-term investment.”

The new appointments follow the conclusion of terms for Deputy Chair Cr Mary Brown, Mr Chris Boshoff and Cr June Kuhl.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mary, Chris and June for their contributions,” Ms Burden said.
“Their knowledge, commitment and leadership helped guide several key initiatives and made a lasting impact on our regional development efforts.”

Mayor MacRae said she welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the committee’s work.

“I look forward to working with leaders from across the region to support sustainable growth and investment,” Cr MacRae said.
“With strong links to industry, I’m keen to help drive outcomes that strengthen our long-term economic opportunities.”

Mayor Dalle Cort said collaboration would be key to delivering meaningful outcomes.

“Working together gives us a stronger voice in shaping decisions that support infrastructure, jobs and future growth for our communities,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

Anthony Curro believes RDA plays an essential role in connecting policy, funding and regional priorities.

“It’s a real privilege to join the RDA Townsville and North West Queensland Committee and contribute to shaping a stronger future for the region. My focus will be on supporting collaboration across government, industry and communities to deliver practical, measurable outcomes that reflect the priorities of local people,” Mr Curro said.

RDA Committees are a national network of local leaders who work with all levels of government, business and community to support economic development. The Townsville and North West Queensland committee covers 14 local government areas and plays a key role in advocating for strategic infrastructure, workforce planning and investment attraction.

New RDA Townsville and North West Committee Members (L – R) – Mayor Peta MacRae, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Anthony Curro.

Pathways & Possibilities: Connecting Families with the Future of Work in North Queensland

More than 120 parents, carers, students, and educators gathered in Townsville this week for Pathways & Possibilities –an evening designed to equip families with the insights and confidence to support young people on their career journey.

Hosted by RDA Townsville & North West Queensland in partnership with Jobs Townsville North Queensland (JTNQ), the event focused on building stronger connections between home, school, and industry to better prepare the region’s future workforce.

What made the night such a success wasn’t just the turnout, it was the energy and depth of engagement. Roundtable conversations between families and industry ran overtime, questions came in thick and fast, and the feedback was unanimous: parents want more opportunities like this.

Many attendees said they left the event feeling more informed, confident, and better prepared to talk with their teens about future pathways. For some, it was the first time they’d spoken directly with local employers. For others, it was a lightbulb moment about the scale and diversity of opportunities emerging across North Queensland.

The evening featured keynote presentations from Dr Lisa McDonald on future industries and Vicki James from the Department of Education and was supported by a wide range of industry representatives who generously gave their time to be part of the conversation. Special thanks also go to the talented student media team from Pimlico State High School, who captured the energy of the event through photography and videography.

At its core, this event was all about bringing people together to tackle workforce challenges with practical, place-based solutions that empower the next generation.

$29B Investment Driving Workforce Collaboration in Northern Queensland

Click here to view the highlight video

Northern Queensland’s most senior leaders from education, industry and government came together in Townsville today to address one of the region’s most pressing challenges: building a workforce capable of meeting the scale of investment already underway.

The North Queensland Future Workforce Summit, hosted by Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland (RDA) and Jobs Townsville North Queensland (JTNQ), was a working-style, invite-only event focused on practical, place-based solutions to the region’s current and future workforce needs.

With more than $29 billion in major projects planned across the region, including in construction, health, education, energy, defence and community services, participants agreed that long-term, region-led workforce strategies are essential to sustain growth and maximise community benefit.

Wayde Chiesa, CEO of RDA Townsville and North West Queensland, said the Summit demonstrated a shift toward proactive regional planning.

“The Summit was about collaboration with intent, turning shared insights into coordinated action. If we want to grow and retain a skilled local workforce, we must connect education and employment more effectively and ensure young people see a future here in North Queensland.”

Dean Deighton, Chair of the Jobs Townsville North Queensland (JTNQ) Committee and Head of Northern Australia at Ai Group, said the Summit sent a clear signal that regions must lead the way on workforce planning.

“There is enormous opportunity in North Queensland, but we need a regionally coordinated approach to unlock it. It is not enough to simply acknowledge workforce shortages, we need structured partnerships that drive real outcomes on the ground.”

“We are seeing strong employer demand across sectors, but without targeted training pipelines and improved participation, that demand will not translate into long-term economic benefit. The willingness of industry, education and government to come together today shows we are ready to act collectively and strategically.”

Dr Caroline Smith, Executive Director of Ai Group’s Centre for Education and Training and the event’s keynote speaker, said national workforce trends are converging with local needs.

“North Queensland is a microcosm of what is happening across Australia. Jobs are changing, industries are transforming, and we need a skills system that is flexible, responsive and collaborative. Today’s conversations were about building that capability from the ground up.”

The agenda included interactive roundtables and a panel session focused on growing local training pipelines, improving workforce participation and strengthening employer-education connections.

Participating organisations included James Cook University, TAFE Queensland, Townsville Catholic Education, Port of Townsville, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Mater, Queensland Rail, Bravus, Powerlink, Defence, the Department of Employment and Training, Townsville City Council and other major employers and workforce agencies across the region.

Key outcomes from the event include

• Agreement to progress a shared regional workforce plan
• Commitment to further collaboration on co-designed training models between education and industry
• Focus on local talent development and retention, especially youth and adult re-entry to the workforce
• Strengthened cross-sector partnerships through the JTNQ network

“We know what the challenges are. What we need now is coordinated, region-led action,” Mr Chiesa said.

Leadership Transition at RDA Townsville and North West Queensland
(Media release – 16 May)

Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland (RDA) has announced CEO Wayde Chiesa will step down later in 2025, following nearly four years in the role.

Mr Chiesa advised the RDA Committee of his decision earlier this year and has committed to remaining in the role during the transition period to support continuity and a strong handover to the next CEO.

RDA Chair Debra Burden said Mr Chiesa had provided strong leadership during a period of change and opportunity.

“Wayde has provided invaluable support since I commenced as Chair, and his professionalism and strategic insight have made an immediate impact. The relationships he has built across the region are a credit to his leadership and have positioned the organisation strongly for the future.”

Former Chair Frank Beveridge said Mr Chiesa had left a lasting legacy across the region.

“Wayde is one of the most passionate advocates for North and North West Queensland I’ve ever worked with,” Mr Beveridge said. “He’s delivered game-changing projects on behalf of our councils and earned the trust of stakeholders at every level. His leadership has been a real asset to the region.”

Reflecting on the decision, Mr Chiesa said he was looking forward to focusing on new opportunities across the region.

“It’s been an honour to lead RDA and contribute to some of the region’s most important projects,” he said. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a passionate team, local leaders and dedicated partners who care deeply about the future of this region. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together.”

Mr Chiesa thanked the RDA Committee and paid tribute to both former Chair Frank Beveridge and Deputy Chair Mary Brown for their support, tireless work and fearless advocacy during his tenure.

“RDA has an important role to play in the years ahead, and I know the organisation is in good hands under Debra’s leadership.”

RDA has engaged local firm TP Human Capital to manage the recruitment.

The position is now advertised, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply. For more information and to view the application pack, visit Our Team page.

Strengthening Regional Development

Our latest update highlights the momentum building across the region to support sustainable growth, address workforce challenges, and enhance liveability.

From the launch of the Live North West and Jobs North West platforms, to new workforce research and ongoing collaboration through Jobs Townsville North Queensland (JTNQ), we’re working closely with councils, industry and community to deliver practical outcomes.

This is about more than individual projects. It’s about laying the groundwork for long-term regional prosperity.

📎 Read the full update and explore our latest tools and insights

• Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie launches two new websites to attract workers, families and investors to North West Queensland
• Live North West and Jobs North West showcase regional jobs, housing, lifestyle, and industry opportunities
• Joint initiative between Queensland Government, NWQROC and RDA Townsville and North West Queensland to boost population and workforce

North West Queensland is enhancing its regional appeal and workforce potential with the launch of two new digital platforms – Live North West and Jobs North West.

The Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, officially launched the sites today, as part of a bold regional push to boost population, attract skilled workers, and strengthen economic sustainability.

With guidance from key partner North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NWQROC) the platforms were developed by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Townsville and North West Queensland, with funding from the Queensland Government. 

All 11 councils across the region contributed to the project, helping shape the content to reflect their communities’ unique strengths and opportunities. Deputy Premier Bleijie said the initiative was a strong example of government backing for regional growth.

“These platforms are more than just websites – they are a gateway to new opportunities,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“They provide a comprehensive snapshot of what North West Queensland has to offer, helping connect people with jobs, lifestyle and investment opportunities.

The Queensland Government is committed to strengthening our regions, and this is a great example of that commitment in action.”

Wayde Chiesa, CEO of RDA Townsville and North West Queensland, said the digital tools mark a milestone in the way the region is promoted to the rest of the country.

“This is a bold step to unlock the region’s full potential,” Mr Chiesa said.

“We’re making it easier for people to picture their future in North West Queensland, whether that’s a career move, business investment, or lifestyle change. It’s about building a sustainable workforce and helping our communities grow.”

Cr Barry Hughes, Mayor of Etheridge Shire Council and Chair of NWQROC, said the platforms are a much needed solution to the region’s workforce and population challenges.

“Attracting and retaining skilled workers is crucial to the long-term success of our communities,” Cr Hughes said.

“These websites wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Queensland Government and the facilitation of RDA Townsville and North West Queensland.

They give our region a powerful new tool to showcase what’s on offer and bring more workers, families and businesses to the North West.”

Live North West highlights lifestyle advantages, education, healthcare, and local services, while Jobs North West combines job opportunities across sectors and features a business directory to support local enterprise.

With workforce shortages placing pressure on key industries, local leaders say this digital launch comes at a critical time to help secure the region’s future.

Explore the new platforms
livenorthwestqueensland.com.au
jobsnorthwestqueensland.com.au

This project covers 11 Councils including:

• Mount Isa City Council
• Burke Shire Council
• Carpentaria Shire Council
• Cloncurry Shire Council
• Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council
• Etheridge Shire Council
• Flinders Shire Council
• Mornington Shire Council
• McKinlay Shire Council
  Richmond Shire Council
• Croydon Shire Council

North West Sizzle Reel 

Debra Burden appointed Chair of Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland
North Queensland business leader Debra Burden has been appointed by the Australian Government as Chair of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Townsville and North West Queensland.

RDA Townsville and North West Queensland works across 14 local government areas and plays a key role in driving economic development by attracting investment, supporting major projects, and working with government, industry and communities to diversify and strengthen the region’s economy.

Ms Burden brings more than two decades of executive leadership and governance experience to the role and currently serves as CEO of Selectability, a leading mental wellbeing and suicide prevention organisation operating across Queensland.

She has also held senior roles with Queensland Country Credit Union and Health Fund, 1300SMILES and Canegrowers Burdekin, alongside directorships with the Townsville Hospital and Health Service, North Queensland Primary Health Network and North and West Remote Health.

Her contributions to business and community have been recognised with the Queensland Business Review Women in Business Award and the Queensland Telstra Business Women’s Award.

The Hon Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, welcomed the appointment.

“The Chair plays a critical role in shaping the strategic direction for RDA Townsville and North West Queensland. Debra’s leadership and experience will play a key role in fostering economic development and supporting jobs and growth across the region,” Minister McBain said.

“Regional Development Australia committees are vital partners in building stronger regions, and this appointment comes at an important time as we focus on unlocking the economic potential of northern Australia.”

Ms Burden said she looked forward to helping advance regional priorities.

“I’m proud to step into this role at a time of significant opportunity for North and North West Queensland,” Ms Burden said.

“I look forward to working with the committee, our partners and the RDA TNWQ team to support the continued growth and deliver lasting value for communities across the region.”

RDA Townsville and North West Queensland CEO Wayde Chiesa said Ms Burden’s appointment comes as the organisation steps up its focus on driving industry growth across the region.

“We’re pleased to welcome Debra as Chair at a pivotal time for North and North West Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.

“Her leadership and strong local networks will be invaluable as we continue to back industries, drive regional growth and create new opportunities for our communities.”

RDA Townsville and North West Queensland thanks outgoing Chair Frank Beveridge for his committed leadership and dedication to the region, and Acting Chair Mary Brown, Deputy Mayor of Hinchinbrook, for guiding the organisation through the transition. Cr Brown will continue to contribute her expertise as Deputy Chair.

𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝

Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland supports the announcement of the $8 million Community Relief Fund announced yesterday, which will provide critical assistance to councils in our region by the current ongoing impacts of severe weather and flooding. An important step towards long-term recovery and resilience.

It was encouraging to see Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier David Crisafulli MP in our region together, assessing the hardest-hit areas and gaining firsthand insight into the challenges facing our communities.

With forecast adverse weather for this weekend, it will be crucial that both the Australian and Queensland Governments continue to get real-time information.

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧, 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐃𝐀 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐬𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐫, said RDA is actively engaging with government officials to ensure they have accurate, up-to-date information on the evolving situation in flood-affected areas. She emphasised RDA’s role in advocating for the needs of impacted communities and its commitment to working with all levels of government, industry, and the community to support both immediate response efforts and long-term economic resilience.

“Our communities are facing immense challenges, and this funding will help councils take swift action to restore essential infrastructure and services. RDA remains dedicated to working alongside government, industry, and local communities to drive both immediate recovery and sustained regional resilience,” she said.

“While clean-up efforts have begun in some areas, the weather event is ongoing in others, and the full extent of the impact is still unfolding. Beyond the immediate response, we must focus on strengthening infrastructure and future preparedness to ensure our region remains resilient in the face of future challenges. Ensuring long-term investment in resilience and economic stability will be key to supporting the region’s ongoing recovery and growth.”

If you’re in an affected area, check your eligibility and apply for assistance through the following sites:
𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 – https://lnkd.in/eviRgeKT

𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 – https://tinyurl.com/PHNQS

𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 – https://tinyurl.com/SNQREC

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐨𝐭-𝐟𝐨𝐫-𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 – https://lnkd.in/eheMqqiR