Regional Development Australia in Toowoomba, Queensland | Public & government service

Regional Development Australia

Locality: Toowoomba, Queensland

Phone: +61 7 4638 0089

Address: Level 1, 516 Ruthven Street 4350 Toowoomba, QLD, Australia

Website: http://www.rda-ddsw.org.au

Likes: 1747

Add/Update information

Reviews

Tags

• Public & government service

25.01.2022 Do you know about LifeFlight and the incredible impact they have within the Darling Downs region? Every day, the Toowoomba RACQ LifeFlight Rescue crew perform remarkable work, as they put on their boots, take to the skies, and save local lives. In the 19/20 financial year, Toowoomba was RACQ LifeFlight Rescue’s busiest community helicopter base, completing a record 669 missions. As a charity organisation, LifeFlight relies on support from the community to raise vital funds a...nd help meet almost 30% of all operating costs. As you can imagine, the support of our community in safeguarding these funds is crucial. So, we wanted to let you know about LifeFlight Fuelies and how you can become a Fuelie today. It probably comes as no surprise that without fuel there is no mission. RACQ LifeFlight Rescue aircraft rely on a specialised aviation fuel to complete every single mission and your support is invaluable in making sure our aircraft are fuelled and ready to respond to every emergency call. Each year up to $700,000 per base must be raised with the help of generous Queenslanders like you, to keep our choppers in action. That’s why our Fuelies Partners are so important to us, and why we would be grateful if you were to join us today. All funds raised local stay local, and your contribution could help save two Darling Downs lives every day. As a member of the LifeFlight Regional Advisory Committee, I would love to talk with you more about how you can support this vital service by becoming a Fuelie. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch. Trudi Bartlett [email protected] 0488 112 298

25.01.2022 Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South West Workforce Challenges and Business Survey November 2020 Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South West (RDA DDSW) would like to conduct as survey to ascertain the effects of COVID-19 on Businesses and Workforce. The survey is provide real-time insight to the three tiers of government and other agencies on the effects of COVID-19 on Darling Downs and South West businesses; how businesses are reacting to... government support packages, the effect government support has had on the workforce and recruitment, businesses current situation and future projections. RDA DDSW are seeking your input on your current business situation and workforce challenges so we can then identify ways we can assist your business, whilst also feeding back the current situation to the Federal Government through our Minister Nola Marino, along with State Government, Local Councils and other agencies. Your responses will be greatly appreciated and will provide valuable information to inform and support future Government responses. The survey will close at 5pm on Wednesday, 11 November 2020. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7VKSW5N Take the Survey

25.01.2022 Spring into ASBAS Digital Solutions Qld September workshops on Security, Google Suite, Content, Social Media and Mailchimp Spring is here and you can do our online workshops from anywhere, even the garden! This month ASBAS can help you protect your business from hackers and scammers, show you the ins and outs of Google Suite, understand content and how to use it, get started with social media strategy or learn the basics of Mailchimp.... All online workshops are 2 hours and are just $35.74 inc GST & booking fee 15 September | 9.00am - 11.00am Stolen! Online security and data protection for your business 15 September | 10.00am - 12.00pm Introducing Google Suite including Docs, Sheets + Slides! 15 September | 10.00am - 12.00pm The art of repurposing content 15 September | 4.30pm - 5.30pm Social Media: Supercharge your pages 16 September | 8.00am - 10.00am Stolen! Online security and data protection for your business 25 September | 10.00am - 12.00pm Mailchimp 101 For a full listing of all ASBAS online workshops and webinars, visit https://asbas.rdabrisbane.org.au/workshops Book an online or phone consultation with one of our digital experts. Need some more specialised help for your current situation? ASBAS Digital Solutions Qld offers government-subsidised one-on-one consultations with our business advisors, which can be online (Zoom, Skype) or by phone. 1st 60 min session: $44.00 inc GST Subsequent 60 min sessions: $66 inc GST Find out more at https://asbas.rdabrisbane.org.au/one-on-one-consultations

25.01.2022 MORE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS TO STUDY IN THE REGIONS The Coalition Government will provide more than $9.5 million in scholarships for students to study in regional Australia from semester one 2021. Destination Australia scholarships worth up to $15,000 will be available to students to undertake a qualification from a Certificate IV through to a PhD at one of 17 tertiary education providers across 36 campuses in regional communities.... Minister for Education Dan Tehan said the Destination Australia scholarships would provide financial support to more than 250 students, who would also get the opportunity to live and learn in regional Australia. These scholarships will give students the opportunity to experience the great lifestyle and educational facilities in regional Australia while also boosting local communities and education and training providers, Mr Tehan said. Our Government is committed to supporting growth in regional education and encouraging students to consider the high-quality educational opportunities available outside our capital cities. These scholarships complement the additional $400 million in support to regional students and regional universities contained in our Government’s Job-ready Graduates reforms. Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, said research showed students who studied in regional areas were more likely to stay there after graduation. By helping students take up regional vocational education and training opportunities, Destination Australia makes it easier for students to transition to the workforce in regional communities, Minister Cash said. The National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy report showed students who completed tertiary study in a regional community had better employment outcomes than their city counterparts. Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee said Destination Australia would help regional and rural communities get back on their feet following the bushfires, drought and COVID-19 pandemic. Destination Australia gives students the opportunity to escape the big cities and experience country Australia, Minister Gee said. Our regions have a lot to offer, from an unbeatable quality of life, to a world class education and job opportunities following graduation. Through programs such as Destination Australia, the Australian Government is improving educational outcomes for students and driving economic growth in our regions. Students are encouraged to contact their higher education provider for more information on the scholarships, including the application process. For more information, visit www.education.gov.au/destination-australia.

24.01.2022 Information on Changes to JobKeeper The relevant fact sheets can be found on the Treasury Website here: https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/jobkeeper... In summary, On 21 July 2020, the Government announced an extension of the JobKeeper Payment until 28 March 2021, targeting support to those businesses and not-for-profits who continue to be significantly impacted by the Coronavirus. The factsheet on the JobKeeper extension is at: https://treasury.gov.au//Fact_sheet-JobKeeper_Payment_exte In summary, from 28 September 2020, businesses and not-for-profits seeking to claim the JobKeeper Payment will be required to demonstrate that they have suffered a decline in turnover using actual GST turnover (rather than projected GST turnover). Employers may also find the ATO website useful: https://www.ato.gov.au/general/JobKeeper-Payment/, including information on long-term casual employees.

24.01.2022 Information Session - Export Market Development Grants & Funding Options with Export Finance Australia (EFA) Thursday, 17 September 2020 1:30pm until 3pm Join the SQ Export Hub information session on Thursday, 17 September to discuss funding options for exporters including export market development grants, administered by Austrade, and assistance provided by Export Finance Australia....Continue reading

24.01.2022 CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RECIPIENTS OF THE FRRR TACKLING TOUGH TIMES TOGETHER GRANTS Special congratulations to the following recipients from the Darling Downs and South West QLD Region: Bidjara Media & Broadcasting Company Limited... Bollon and District Community Group Incorporated Charleville Community Men's Shed Incorporated Chinchilla Historical Society Inc - Chinchilla Historical Museum Queensland Rural, Regional and Remote Women's Network Incorporated Wandoan Arts Council Incorporated See more

24.01.2022 Applications for the Youth Action Project Grants Scheme (YAPGS) are now open The YAPGS is offering grants of up to $20,000 to smaller grass-roots or community-led projects that aim to improve the outcomes and wellbeing of young people, with a particular focus on employment, mental health, transportation, and the impacts of COVID-19 and the Australian Bushfires. The Department of Health has engaged the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) to administer the scheme. FYA is ...a non-profit organisation deeply committed and passionate about improving the outcomes and life opportunities for young Australians. Projects need to be either new initiatives that recognise and response to the hardship young people face now and will face in the future, or existing initiatives, which already provides a valuable on-going service to young people, but which need further funding to continue. Funds can be used to pay for any type of project including but not limited to staffing, equipment purchase, consumables or marketing. Further information on the YAPGS including the application form can be obtained by visiting the FYA website, at: www.fya.org.au/yapgs.

24.01.2022 Community groups in drought-affected areas can apply for up to $150K in Tackling Tough Times Together (#TTTT) grants, to support a WIDE range of projects. The $150K tier closes on Thursday 10 September, so get your applications in now! https://frrr.org.au/grants/tackling_tough_times_together

23.01.2022 Small Business Adaption Grants Applications for regional Queensland are still open check your eligibility and apply now for up to $10,000 funding for micro and small businesses impacted by COVID-19. For more information:... https://www.business.qld.gov.au//advice-s/grants/adaption

23.01.2022 Darling Downs and South West celebrates the best of training Media Release from the Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development The Honourable Shannon Fentiman...Continue reading

23.01.2022 PROJECT OFFICE ACCIONA now has a presence in Warwick. Our Community Shop Front will provide an opportunity for locals to meet with members of the MacIntyre Project Team to ask questions and learn more about the project. The ACCIONA shop front will be open on Monday and Tuesday or by appointment, for community enquiries. You can find us at Rose City Shopping Centre, 81 Palmerin Street between 8am 5pm. Call in and meet our Community Relations Coordinator, Maria Baker.

22.01.2022 More jobs supported through Palaszczuk Government measures for Queensland small businesses and councils Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure and Planning The Honourable Cameron Dick... The Palaszczuk Government will deliver an additional $249 million from existing funding in COVID-19 related tax relief to small and medium businesses across Queensland. Treasurer Cameron Dick said the measures will help protect small and medium Queensland businesses that continue to bear the brunt of COVID impacts. For some workers and businesses, conditions have improved since March, the Treasurer said. Through the success of our strong measures to protect the health of Queenslanders, we have been able open up more of our economy. But we know that thousands of Queensland businesses, particularly in exposed industries, are still doing it very tough. Thats why today I am announcing a range of measures to further ease the tax burden on these companies. The measures are: a two-month waiver for of payroll tax for July and August 2020 for businesses with annual Australian taxable wages up to $6.5 million; continuing to exempt JobKeeper subsidy payments from payroll tax despite the Morrison government making these payments liable for income tax; allowing businesses to pay off existing payroll tax deferred liabilities over the course of 2021; and for businesses renting State Government premises and incurring a demonstrable COVID impact, extending existing rent relief to the end of calendar 2020. This package is in addition to the substantial tax relief previously announced by the Queensland Government to support businesses through COVID-19, including payroll and land tax relief and a tax exemption for JobKeeper payments. The Palaszczuk Government will work with regional councils to help them refinance their existing debt on more favourable terms. A number of councils have fixed interest loans with rates as high as 8.82%, the Treasurer said. With Queensland Treasury Corporations 20-year loan rate currently at 1.92%, refinancing could release as much as $280 million, equivalent to 5% of total council operating expenditure across the state. We expect councils to use this funding for job-creating capital works programs, across Queensland.

22.01.2022 Webinar: Civil Composites at USQ: Future proofing Australian infrastructure University of Southern Queensland - Australia (USQ) is recognised internationally by polymer composite R&D in civil engineering. USQ has developed and applied novel composite technologies in an array of construction and through the repair of bridges, roads, railways and marine structures, to future-proof Australian infrastructure. This webinar provides an overview of the state-of-the-art research, dev...elopment, and applications of composite technologies in Australia. It also identifies future opportunities for the broad use of composites in civil engineering and construction. Topics and presenters to this webinar are the following: 1. GFRP bars as non-corrosive reinforcement to concrete infrastructure - Professor Allan Manalo 2. Strata stabilisation using composite rock bolts Dr Ali Mirzaghorbanali 3. Drones for structural health monitoring Dr Zahra Gharineiat 4. Pile rehabilitation using composites Dr Weena Lokuge 5. Composite railway sleeper development Mr Tom Heyer (Business Manager Specialty Products, Austrak Pty Ltd) Time Oct 27, 2020 01:00 PM in Brisbane Register at: https://usq.zoom.us/webi/register/WN_SuAerszwSrWcBkiNJRWBVQ

22.01.2022 Youth Action Projects Grants program Now Open Media Release from the The Hon Dr John McVeigh MP Federal Member for Groom... The Youth Action Projects Grant Scheme is now open to individuals and organisations supporting activities important to young Australians. The Australian Government understands the unprecedented impact COVID-19 and last summers bushfire season has had on young Australians. Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh said the scheme was an opportunity for individuals and organisations to apply for funding to support projects that will make a difference in the lives of young people. Its a difficult time in our nations history and young people are feeling the repercussions of job losses, breaks in education and social isolation, Dr McVeigh said. Under the program grants between $5,000 and $20,000 are available to support young people aged between 15 and 24 years as they navigate and recover from this difficult period, he said. The Government has engaged the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) to administer the scheme. FYA is a non-profit organisation committed and passionate about improving the outcomes and life opportunities for youth. Projects need to be either new initiatives that recognise and respond to the hardship young people face now and will face in the future, or existing initiatives which already provide a valuable on-going service to young people, but which need further funding to continue. Funds can be used to pay for any type of project including but not limited to staffing, equipment purchase, consumables or marketing. While grants will be used for projects which support young people in a variety of ways, there will be a particular focus on employment, transportation, mental health and the impacts of COVID-19 and the Australian bushfires, Dr McVeigh said. Successful grant recipients are expected to deliver projects over the 2020-21 financial year. Applications close on Wednesday, 7 October, 2020. For more information and to download the application form, see https://www.fya.org.au/yapgs/

22.01.2022 GAIN EXPERIENCE IN AGRICULTURE & BUILD YOUR CAREER Are you considering a job or career in agriculture? Whether you are looking for seasonal work, a ‘Gap Year’ experience or considering a long-term career. There are a wide range of services and government-funded programs to help you. The Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network (QAWN) is an industry-led rural jobs initiative funded by the Queensland Government. It consists of six agriculture workforce officers based with a...griculture industry organisations including Growcom, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers, Mackay Canegrowers and Far North Queensland Growers Association, who are working in partnership with the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) to help address agriculture’s labour and skill needs. Our aim is to work with agribusiness to understand to workforce needs and to connect businesses with the most appropriate solution to help business. This includes informing job seekers on the variety of available employment options and connecting with local recruitment and training providers and providing information on available initiatives. Call DAF Customer Service on 13 25 23 to be connected to an agriculture workforce officer. See more

21.01.2022 GOOGLE MY BUSINESS - FREE WORKSHOP The Warwick Chamber of Commerce Inc and @Empower Digital are proud to present a hands-on learning opportunity for businesses to optimise their on-line presence for local searches. The workshop will be held on Tuesday 13 July 2021 at 5:30pm at the Warwick RSL. Register now at https://warwicktickets.com.au//google-my-business-free-wor

21.01.2022 Toowoomba Regional Council launches Invest Toowoomba CBD Marketing Material This material is designed to support you to attract new investment across the Toowoomba CBD and Railway Parklands Priority Development Area. It is hoped that this material will be beneficial to you. To download and view the investment marketing collateral highlighted today simply follow Invest Toowoomba CBD on Linkedin: ... https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/invest-toowoomba-cbd The available material includes: o Investment Prospectus for the Toowoomba CBD and Railway Parklands Priority Development Area (PDA) o Showcases investments in excess of $800m; highlights the economic strength of the CBD and PDA, its key business sectors and investment opportunities. o Fly-over Videos o 4 short flyover videos of the Toowoomba CBD and PDA for investors and developers. o Investor videos o Twelve short investor videos have been produced featuring businesses, developers, investors and commercial real estate, providing insights in to why they invested in Toowoomba and why others should follow. o Toowoomba Inner City Economy, An Economic and resident analysis o This report defines the economic importance of the CBD and highlights its competitive advantages, alongside comparative advantages when benchmarked against other CBDs across Australia. It includes data across workforce, visitation and CBD residents. The report highlights both challenges and opportunities for the CBD. The data can be utilised to support evidence-based decision making, development and investments. o TIQ Invest Toowoomba o Provides an overview of the investment opportunities across the wider Toowoomba Region. TOOWOOMBA REGIONAL COUNCIL WEBSITE The above-mentioned content can also be accessed at: https://www.tr.qld.gov.au/community-business/invest Regional Economic and Community Profile: http://economy.id.com.au/toowoomba

21.01.2022 Primary producers affected by the Queensland Bushfires, Sept-Dec 2019 may be eligible for Emergency Bushfire Response in Primary Industries Grants of up to $75,000 through Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA). Applications close on 31 December 2020. Find out more at https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/grants-rebates

21.01.2022 Volunteer Grants applications are open! Volunteering Queensland, on behalf of the Australian Government, is pleased to offer 2020 Supplementary Volunteer Grants to volunteer involving organisations across Queensland to support the efforts of volunteers in building stronger, more resilient communities. Grants of $1,000 - $5,000 can be used by volunteer based organisations to support the efforts of their volunteers and encourage and increase participation in volunteering.... Funding can assist organisations transition their volunteer programs back into operation following the disruption caused by COVID-19, with grants to help re-engage volunteers and adapt practices to support volunteers safety. Applications close: 20 September 11:59pm Find out more and apply at https://volunteeringqld.org.au/grants/dss2020

21.01.2022 Following on from the FTA seminars, the Free Trade Advantage online platform is now online and ready for use. Discover tariff outcomes and rules of origin information for Australia’s free trade agreement through DFAT’s online FTA Portal. https://www.austrade.gov.au/Austral//free-trade-agreements

21.01.2022 Sign up for a free business capability workshop - Inland Rail

20.01.2022 Webinar - SEQS - How to Thrive in Uncertain Times - 17 September 2020 Dept of State Development, Tourism and Innovation Learn how to innovate and adapt your business model to succeed in the changing economic climate... About this Event Transform for success You are invited to a practical and informative webinar to help ensure your manufacturing business can innovate and adapt to the ever-changing economic environment following COVID-19. In the webinar you will: gain an understanding of the importance of reviewing your business model learn the tools you need to build sustainable strategies and how to grow through innovation better understand your customers needs and the value of your product and local supply chain opportunities hear from a manufacturing business that has adapted their business model, product and market to survive the changing impacts of COVID-19 gain an understanding of what current government assistance is available for your manufacturing business. Promote your manufacturing business and make local connections During registration you will be asked if you would like to participate to receive a list of the contact details and local manufacturing capabilities of participants and attendees of the event, and to share your details to help promote your business. Please contact the event coordinator if you have any questions. More information: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/seqs-how-to-thrive-in-uncer

20.01.2022 Devastating news for the town of Mungindi. Please help support their fire appeal. Mungindi Progress Association Mungindi, Queensland Mungindi Community Preschool Mungindi Cotton Growers Association Mungindi Mungindi SHOW Society... Mungindi Servo Mungindi Races Balonne Shire Moree Plains Shire Council See more

20.01.2022 REMINDER! WESTERN DOWNS JOB FAIR Thursday 5 November 2020. 4pm to 8pm

18.01.2022 LOCAL TOOWOOMBA COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS BENEFIT FROM INLAND RAIL GRANTS The PCYC Toowoomba and the Toowoomba Lapidary CLUB INC. have been successful in attracting funding under round five of the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program, which is designed to improve the wellbeing of regions where Inland Rail will operate. Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh joined representatives of the PCYCs Brake the Cycle program in Toowoomba today to announce $4,000 in ...Continue reading

18.01.2022 Check out these professional development opportunities from TAFE Queensland Make professional development your priority this quarter. Choose from full qualifications, skill sets, micro-credentials and more. Wage subsidy - new and existing staff... As part of a new Federal Government stimulus package, TAFE Queensland can talk to you about a 50 per cent wage subsidy for new and existing apprentices and trainees that your business employs. Speak to your TAFE Queensland account manager about this and other opportunities to upskill your workforce. https://tafeqld.edu.au//new-funding-boosts-apprenticeships Safety is priority - HSR training Need healthy and safety representative (HSR) training? All HSRs must complete compulsory training within three months of being elected to the role, with refresher training to be undertaken at three-yearly intervals. Refresher HSR - $310.00 Full HSR - $900.00. https://go.tafeqld.edu.au/HSR.html Stay agile with micro-credentials Micro-credentials are a cost-effective way of providing professional development to your staff to upskill in the latest trends. Unlike conferences or professional development days, micro-credentials provide evidence of completion and capability. https://tafeqld.edu.au/micro-credentials Training needs analysis Analyse your business to maximise your return on investment with training. Together we look at where your business is currently, where you want it to be, and the training that will help you achieve your business goals. https://tafeqld.edu.au//big-b/training-needs-analysis.html?

18.01.2022 RDA DDSW would like to thank Go1 for their great presentation on the QLD Skills Hub yesterday. Thank you also to all who attended. To access the free courses, small business owners with an ABN registered in Queensland and a team of 20 or less staff can register at https://www.qldskills.com.au... A second GO1 portal, Skills Focus Queensland provides access for Queenslanders whose jobs have been impacted by COVID-19 with approximately 400 courses across topic areas such as CV Writing and Interview Preparation, Sales, Finance and IT. The Skills Focus Queensland portal can be accessed through the Qld Governments Jobs Finder portal at: www.qld.gov.au/jobs/education/covid-19-training or at www.skillsfocus.com.au. https://www.go1.com/en-au/

18.01.2022 This companion guide to the Business Funding Guide provides an easy-to-read overview of the range of funding products on the market to help small business operators make the best choice for their business. Check it out at https://buff.ly/2KzOM6h

18.01.2022 RDA DDSW Director met with Jamie Kennedy from Seaway and Blair Batts, General Manager of InterLinkSQ to talk about the regional impacts of Inland Rail

17.01.2022 Join RDADDSW and Go1 and learn about the new QLD Skills Hubs and what they have to offer! Monday 14 September 2020 10am to 11 am Register at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/webinar-qld-skills-hub-with... QLD Skills Hub and Skills Focus Queensland Queensland small business owners, startups and their staff now have an unprecedented opportunity to access 500 select online courses, ranging from five minutes to a few hours, for FREE until December 2020. The courses are grouped under key topics including: Foundation business skills Leading a successful business Connecting businesses and customers Digital skills and adapting to change. Examples of courses available include Introduction to Digital Marketing, Keys to set up a Remote Team, Build Resilience through Perseverance, How to Deal with Customer Complaints and Improve Your Business, Cyber Security Tips for Small Business, Top Retail Tips, The 4Ps of Marketing and Business Planning for Small Business. A second portal, Skills Focus Queensland provides access for Queenslanders whose jobs have been impacted by COVID-19 with approximately 400 courses across topic areas such as CV Writing and Interview Preparation, Sales, Finance and IT. Join our presenters from online training specialists, GO1, as they outline the various courses available on the QLD Skills Hubs and show what they have to offer. About GO1 GO1 is a globally successful online training company to provide a world first for small businesses and employees impacted by COVID-19. Based in Logan, GO1 has delivered their Netflix for training style platform to more than one million customers worldwide since starting in Queensland in 2009. GO1 is one of the most successful startup companies in Queensland and Australia over the past 5 years now in whats known as the scaling-up stage. GO1 is committed to providing the best learning opportunities to improve lives through education and training.

17.01.2022 Young achievers encouraged to apply for 2021 W. H. Groom scholarship Young Toowoomba Region tertiary students with a passion for community, sporting or cultural pursuits are encouraged to apply for the 2021 W. H. Groom scholarship. The Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) scholarship winner will receive $5000 in half-yearly payments.... TRC Finance and Business Strategy portfolio leader Cr Kerry Shine said eligible applicants must be between 18 and 24 and in their second or third year of full-time study at TAFE Queensland South West or the University of Southern Queensland. The selection requirements cover a student’s first and/or second-year academic achievement and their record of community service in arts, sport or charitable groups, Cr Shine said. Applicants must have graduated from a Toowoomba Region high school and need to prove they attended high school in the region for a minimum of two years. Students also need to indicate their willingness to continue full-time study in 2021. The prize will be awarded at Council’s Toowoomba Australia Day ceremony, pending future announcements about 2021 event arrangements. Applications close on Monday, December 7. Application forms can be downloaded from www.tr.qld.gov.au/groomscholarship The scholarship was established in 2004 to mark the centenary of Toowoomba’s proclamation as a city and to honour the achievements of Toowoomba’s first mayor, William Henry Groom.

16.01.2022 Expressions of Interest for the second round of the Mentoring Project currently being delivered by Balonne Shire Council are now open! If you are a business in one of the following industries, then this project is for you! - Agriculture - Horticulture... - Tourism - Small business/ other In round one, mentors have worked with Balonne business on topics such as marketing, diversification, finances, strategic planning and HR and e-commerce to name a few There is no financial cost to the business to be part of this project, however you do need to ensure that you can set time aside for meeting with your mentor and implementing any of the actions you identify. Please give me a call if you have any questions. If you have historically been involved with other mentoring programs across the region, you are still very eligible to be part of this round! Please contact RDADDSW for an expression of interest form.

16.01.2022 RDA DDSW is proud to partner with id consulting | informed decisions to bring you this training event. Join Katrina Houghton from .ID for an informative presentation from .id economic consultants providing an overview of key impacts from COVID-19 on the local economy. The presentation will include an overview of changes in local economic indicators as a result of COVID-19 as well as a comparison with national and State perspectives. Learn how to access this information, and m...ore, through RDA Darling Downs and South West interactive economic profile, available free online. This training will equip you to navigate through the different options available in the econcomy.id websites and will provide an opportunity for questions and answers after the session. Each session will be offered in both live and remote format (via Zoom). Tickets to the live sessions are strictly limited. All sessions are free of charge. For more information on the sessions in your region and to register, visit https://www.rda-ddsw.org.au//id-profile-training-south-w/

16.01.2022 JOINT MEDIA RELEASE The Hon Dr John McVeigh MP Federal Member for Groom The Hon Josh Frydenberg MP... Treasurer The Hon Stuart Robert MP Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Minister for Government Services Economic Support Payments puts more than $61.9 million into pockets of residents of Groom who need it most Since March, the Australian Governments Economic Support Payments have delivered $8.8 billion to over 7 million Australians with 82,598 payments or $61,948,500 being paid to residents of Groom. The two $750 payments were paid automatically to people who were eligible in March and April, and again in July 2020. Federal Member for Groom, Dr John McVeigh welcomed the payments saying they have made a big difference in the lives of so many members of the Groom community who have been doing in tough in the face of the coronavirus. I know a lot of people are doing it tough out there and I have been fighting hard to make sure our community remains supported thorough the devastating impacts of the global pandemic, Dr McVeigh said. These Economic Support Payments are part of the broader plan we are delivering to keep Australia moving forward. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the Morrison Government is providing an unprecedented level of support totalling $314 billion to keep businesses in business and Australians in jobs. In addition to JobKeeper, the Cashflow Boost and other measures, the Governments two $750 economic support payments have injected almost $9 billion into the economy and provided an economic lifeline to millions of Australians at a time when they need it most, he said. The Morrison Government will continue to do what is necessary to cushion the blow and help Australians get to the other side of this once in a century crisis. Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert said the package has helped support lower income Australians through uncertain times and has buoyed economic activity. It has been particularly pleasing to see pensioners and families made up the majority of the 7 million Australians who were paid the $750 Economic Support Payments to help them cope with the financial impacts of the pandemic, he said. Services Australia stepped up get these payments out the door quickly and efficiently with payments made directly into the bank accounts of Australians. In late March, the Government announced further targeted financial support which included the fortnightly Coronavirus Supplement for people on income support payments. People who were eligible for the Coronavirus Supplement did not receive the second Economic Support Payment in July. More information on support being provided by the Australian Government during the coronavirus pandemic, can be found at www.australia.gov.au. John McVeigh

16.01.2022 Carnival in the CBD WHEN | 18th - 27th September WHERE | Toowoomba CBD COST | Free... Lets bring Carnival into the CBD and support our local businesses. Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce is encouraging all CBD Businesses to decorate their shopfronts for a chance to win some great prizes, while inviting locals and visitors to come in and see what the CBD has to offer. Bring the kids down for a window scavenger hunt while voting for your favourite. To get involved, email [email protected]. More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/366019611068700/

15.01.2022 Stanthorpe Eco Expo Saturday, 3 October 2020, at the Stanthorpe Railway Station, featuring Gardening Australia presenter, Jerry Coleby-Williams

15.01.2022 Western Downs Regional Council are hosting a Jobs Fair, offering an opportunity for job seekers and employers to connect under one roof. The Jobs Fair will showcase a range of industries currently on the lookout for employees, providing opportunities for local job seekers to further their career or start a new one in the Western Downs. It will also highlight opportunities around the region for a range of skillsets, with a panel of businesses selected to present on upcoming ...job prospects for major projects such as renewable energy. Date: Thursday 5 November Time: 4 - 8 pm Location: Chinchilla Cultural Centre, 80 - 86 Heeney Street Please see the attached flyer for more information. This is a COVID-Safe Event, please register for your ticket if you wish to attend the event via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/western-downs-job-fair-tickets

15.01.2022 Do you need data for your grant application? One of Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South Wests (RDA DDSW) focuses is to assist businesses and community groups in accessing better data to support their grant application or business case. An essential component to a good grant application is in the evidence provided. Businesses need data to support its case to win the grant. This is essential as the grant process is very competitive, with most grants being h...ighly oversubscribed. It is not enough to say we need this grant or we think and feel this is a good project. A successful grant application will have the data to back up why that business or community group should be awarded the funds. Whilst it is good business practice to have your internal data ready for potential grant opportunities, you can also use regional data and industry specific data to support your application. RDA DDSW helps fund .id profile across the ten council areas it represents. ID Profile uses Census data and other sources to give a snapshot of the economic status of a Council area. The information is publicly available to assist businesses and community groups in preparing evidence based grant applications. To find data for your council region visit https://profile.id.com.au/ Balonne Shire Councill, Bulloo Shire Councilncil, Goondiwindi Regional Councilnal Council, My Maranoa, Murweh Shire Councill, Quilpie Shire Council, Southern Downs Regional Council, Toowoomba Region, Western Downs Regional Council, ID Consulting

14.01.2022 Media Release Office of the Land Access Ombudsman Land Access Ombudsman popping up across the Western Downs and Maranoa regions... Western Downs and Maranoa residents dealing with land access issues will have the opportunity to seek FREE, independent help this November when the Land Access Ombudsman (LAO) continues their pop-up office program in Dalby, Roma, and Chinchilla. Appointments are available with the LAO’s dispute resolution team in Dalby on 16 November, Roma on 17 November and Chinchilla on 18 November. Land Access Ombudsman, Jane Pires said that the LAO pop-up offices provide on the ground access to our service for landholders, resource authority employees and related professionals. It’s an opportunity to seek support about resolving a dispute or simply ask questions about a matter, she said. Our LAO dispute resolution team provide an independent and trustworthy avenue for resolving disputes between landholders and resource companies over alleged breaches of Conduct and Compensation or Make Good Agreements. The team are on the ground in the community because we are committed to making sure that people get the help they need. We’ll work through your issues to determine if we can take it from there, or if there’s another place better suited to assist you even if that’s a government department, the Land Court or the Gasfields Commission, we’ll make sure you’ll get where you need to go. No running in circles or repeating yourself. Those who aren’t sure if the Land Access Ombudsman can help with their dispute are encouraged to reach out while the team are in town and talk through their situation. We are coming to you, so we can meet face-to-face, look at the problems at hand and do our best to start resolving your issues or connect you with someone else who can, Ms Pires said. All meetings will have COVID-safe measures in place, including a limit of four people in the room at a time to meet social distancing requirements. Appointments that require more than two people in attendance (e.g. landholders wishing to have their lawyer, or an advocate accompany them) should contact the LAO to arrange an alternate meeting at a COVID safe venue. The LAO pop-up offices will be located at local community centres with full details available online through the event page on the LAO website. To book an appointment visit the LAO online at https://www.lao.org.au/publications/events email [email protected] or call 1800 717 550 (free call). For information about the Land Access Ombudsman or support and services for Queenslanders experiencing land access disputes visit www.lao.org.au

13.01.2022 BACK TO WORK PROGRAM The Back to Work program provides eligible employers with support payments of up to $20,000 for employing previously unemployed Queenslanders into either continuous part-time or full-time employment. The Back to Work Guidelines for Funding and Terms and Conditions provide comprehensive information on the eligibility criteria for both employees and employers.... It is important that you take the time to read the Back to Work Guidelines for Funding and Terms and Conditions, to ensure that you understand all of the eligibility criteria. Applications that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be approved for funding. Important to know - The Back to Work program is not a wage subsidy. The decision to employ someone is at the discretion of the employer and must be a business decision that is independent of the availability of the Back to Work support payment. - Applications are only available for submission within a limited time period. Initial payment applications must be received within eight weeks of the employee completing four weeks of continuous employment and before they have completed 12 weeks of employment. Applications not submitted within this time period will not be eligible to receive funding. - Applications must be submitted by the employer and not an agent or third-party representative of the employer. - Applications must be submitted via QGrants, an online grants portal. You can create a QGrants account and apply via https://qgrants.osr.qld.gov.au/portal/. The Back to Work Website (https://backtowork.initiatives.qld.gov.au/) is a useful resource and is where you will find all updates to the program including the latest versions of the Back to Work Guidelines for Funding and Terms and Conditions. There are also helpful tips about setting up your QGrants account and making an online application.

12.01.2022 NOW RECRUITING - New exciting role in St George!!! The Country Universities Centre is coming to St George and Dirranbandi and a full-time Centre Manager will be based in St George. This is a highly rewarding and unique opportunity to shape the education landscape in the Balonne region. As Centre Manager, you will work with the Board of Directors and be supported by the Country Universities Centre (CUC Central). ... Find out more at https://www.seek.com.au/job/50885993 Visit the CUC website at https://www.cuc.edu.au/get-involved/ for full details about the CUC model. Applications close 5pm Friday 27th November and must be emailed to [email protected]. Confidential enquiries can be made to Shannon Payten-McDonald on 0419 899 665.

12.01.2022 Palaszczuk Government backs Queensland jobs and industry with $1 billion boost Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure and Planning The Honourable Cameron Dick...Continue reading

12.01.2022 $50 million Pandemic Response underway Toowoomba Regional Council has begun rolling out a number of projects as part of its $50 million Pandemic Response Investment program. Finance and Business Strategy Committee Chair Councillor Geoff McDonald said work had started on about half of the 64 projects designed to stimulate the local economy.... In June we adopted the budget early to give confidence to the community and provide a positive financial outlook for the future, Cr McDonald said. Less than three months later Im pleased to report that weve not only hit the ground running, but about half the projects are underway. So far about $657,000 has been spent on Councils Pandemic Response, but more importantly, the planning and progress to deliver the full suite of works is well-advanced. As part of that program weve spent more than $400,000 on the regional asphalt overlay program and a further $75,000 on the design of spillway upgrades in Cooby and Cressbrook Dams. Weve completed an upgrade on the Wyreema Waste Management Facility as well as undertaken landfill rehabilitation of our sites in Brookstead and Quinalow. In addition to this, weve begun the tender process on a netball clubhouse and amenities upgrade for Nell E Robinson Park while work continues to progress on the construction of a new Highfields Library. When we first adopted this Pandemic Response the intention was not necessarily to have all 64 projects completed within the financial year, but more so, to fast track our program to help stimulate the local economy which is what weve done. Since announcing our pandemic response, the Federal and State Governments have also announced a number of funding programs, such as the housing grants, which tie in well with our response. While this is great news for our residents, it also means there is a high demand on certain professions, such as the building industry, which means certain projects might not be finished this financial year. We certainly welcome the additional support programs and rather than competing with them, we want to be working in with them, so we will look at how we can tailor the timing of our program of works in such a way, that we can see our community and residents receiving the benefits for a longer period of time. Were fully aware the impacts of COVID-19 will be long-lasting for our community and the more we can stretch these programs, the better off our residents will be. To ensure we get this right, we will continue working with groups such as The Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce and the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise. For a full list of the projects listed in the $50 million Pandemic Response Investment program visit www.tr.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 131 872.

11.01.2022 Media Release JOINT STATEMENT Premier and Minister for Trade The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk Minister for Health and Ambulance Services... The Honourable Yvette D'Ath Restrictions ease Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a further easing of restrictions as Queensland continues its recovery from the pandemic. From 4pm Tuesday, November 17: Gatherings: increase gatherings in homes and public spaces from 40 to 50 across Queensland Indoor premises: increase from one person per four square metres to one person per two square metres (eg restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs, indoor play areas, museums, art galleries, places of worship, convention centres and parliament house Weddings: up to 200 people can attend a wedding and all guests can dance Funerals: Up to 200 people can attend a funeral Indoor events: seated, ticket venues to increase from 50% to 100% (eg theatre, live music, cinemas and indoor sports) Performers can reduce distance from audience from 4m to 2m except choirs which remain at 4m from audience Outdoor events: increase outdoor events from 1000 to 1500 with a COVID safe checklist (larger events require a COVID safe plan) Open air stadiums: Increase seated Capacity from 75% to 100% Outdoor dancing: outdoor dancing allowed (eg outdoor music festivals) The opportunity exists to fill the Cauldron for Origin 3. The Premier said these were sensible steps back to normality after Queensland recorded 60 days without a locally acquired case. This is the result of the hard work of Queenslanders, the Premier said. Other countries are experiencing third waves with increasing numbers of daily cases. Queenslanders are able to enjoy our Queensland way of life and we have to keep up the good work. The changes will come into effect at 4pm on 17 November 2020. Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said the pandemic isn’t over so we have to stay vigilant. We can’t forget the basics, the Minister said. That means keep up social distancing, stay home if you’re sick and maintain basic hygiene. Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said the good work of businesses and venues under COVID-19 Safe Plans, such as collecting contact details, complying with occupant density numbers, and providing hand sanitiser, had helped move Queensland to further ease restrictions early. Queensland’s COVID Safe plans have worked well to keep our community safe and help keep life as normal as possible, Dr Young said. COVID Safe Plans will be reviewed and updated in line with the further easing of restrictions, and government departments will work with their stakeholders to do this.

10.01.2022 Congratulations to Bulloo Shire Council Mayor John (Tractor) Ferguson for collecting his OAM yesterday. Tractor began his career as a grader driver for the Bulloo Shire and later became its mayor. Mayor Ferguson was one of 12 serving or retired councillors who were recognised in the 2020 Queens Birthday Honours for their services to local government. Born in 1951 in Broken Hill, NSW, Mayor Ferguson grew up in the Channel Country before starting work as a grader driver with the Bulloo Shire Council in south-west Queensland in 1983.

10.01.2022 Restarting Australias business events sector The Hon Karen Andrews MP Minister for Industry, Science and Technology...Continue reading

09.01.2022 A Recovery for All Queenslanders Join QCOSS for an important online event Queenslands economic response during COVID-19: what it means for the community sector... Following the release today of the COVID-19 Fiscal and Economic Review by the Queensland Treasurer, QCOSS will be hosting a not-to-be missed online event on 14 September. Much like the annual QCOSS State Budget Breakfast, this event will respond to, and discuss the impact of the economic statement on the community services sector. Join the Hon. Cameron Dick MP, Treasurer and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning as he discusses the governments spending commitments, whats in it for the sector and the people we serve. This will be followed by a panel of industry leaders discussing Queenslands economy during COVID-19 and what it means for the community sector. This is your opportunity to hear directly from, and ask questions to, the Treasurer and the panel on the issues that are affecting your organisation and the sector. Event details When: Monday 14 September 2020 Time: 7:30am to 9:00am Where: Online Cost: QCOSS Members - Free Non-QCOSS members $65 Register now at https://www.qcoss.org.au/civicrm/ The QCOSS Events Team T: 07 3004 6900

09.01.2022 Great to see some of our rural businesses involved in this opportunity.

09.01.2022 FREE WEBINAR - DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY Thursday 19 November 2020 2pm - 4pm Register at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/digital-connectivity-webina... Join us along with representatives from the telecommunications industry to start conversations towards ensuring a more strategic, coordinated approach to the 2021 round of the Regional Connectivity Program and any other funding opportunities that present themselves. As an independent organisation, Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South West (RDA DDSW) will facilitate presentations from some of the telecommunication providers delivering projects in our region. RDA DDSW will gather questions, project opportunities and potential solutions from Councils, Corporate and Community to start conversations in this webinar. RDA DDSWs role will be to help continue those conversations with an ideal outcome being a coordinated, strategic and prioritized approach to future digital connectivity solutions for our region whilst also feeding back to the Federal Government possible policy and/or funding variations.

09.01.2022 Registrations are now open for the FTA Digital Seminar: Disrupted supply chains and changing consumer behaviour Australias Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) continue to provide greater market certainty and growing opportunities for exporters despite the impacts of COVID-19. Join this digital seminar to understand how to tackle the current supply chain environment. Also hear from an exporter on their insights and experience in overseas markets.... We would appreciate if you could share the details of the event with your networks and have included an image and some other suggestions below to support any social media promotion. FTA Digital Seminar: Disrupted supply chains and changing consumer behaviour Date: Wednesday 16 September 2020 Time: 11:00 am to 12:00 pm AEST Registration Link: https://onlinexperiences.com/scripts/Server.nxp The webinars are primarily targeted at Australian exporters and businesses looking to export to hear the latest market insights, learn about the benefits of FTAs, engage with the panel of experts, and access the range of assistance available. Recordings & slides from earlier seminars and details of future events in this series are on the Austrade FTA Seminars page.

08.01.2022 The Toowoomba Regional Jobs Committee is hosting a Virtual Jobs Fair online on Tuesday 17th November 2020. The Virtual Jobs Fair will provide an opportunity for Job Seekers to see jobs that are on offer currently, interact with potential employers and access resources to help with their job search or quest to retrain or upskill. The Virtual Jobs Fair will also provide information and resources to help businesses plan for their future workforces. The event will be free of char...ge to all and will include a Jobs Board, an Exhibition Hall (full of booths) and Workshops (live and on-demand). We need your help to make this event a success. These are the ways you can help: - Register for a booth your branding, your resources and the opportunity to live chat with job seekers. - List your vacancies on the Jobs Board - Tell your networks about it. To register for a booth in the Exhibition Hall (and post your vacancies on Jobs Board) please email [email protected] To register to attend the day as a participant, visit https://www.employtoowoomba.net.au/jobsfair/register Thank you everyone with your assistance we can help address the unemployment and under-employment in the Toowoomba Region. For more information, please contact Lauren Russell: [email protected] 0435 509 376 This event is proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government through the Toowoomba Regional Jobs Committee

08.01.2022 Annual Jobs Report points to COVID-19 rebound Key findings of the 2020 Australian Jobs report show that employment for women and young people is rebounding strongly from the economic impact of COVID-19. Launching the annual report today, Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, said it was clear that the pandemic has radically affected Australia’s labour market....Continue reading

08.01.2022 FUTURE LEADERS MENTOR PROGRAM The Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce's Future Leaders Mentor Program fosters connections between the younger members of our business community (Mentees) and the best leaders that our region has to offer (Mentors). The program provides a forum for experienced business owners and operators and up and coming business leaders to develop an ongoing relationship. The Chamber developed the program to support future leaders of our region in their developmen...t as well as providing a forum to give back to the small business community, which is the driving force. The aim of the program is to provide a framework in which mentors and mentees participate effectively and collaboratively. The Future Leaders Mentor Program has been hailed as a successful platform for individual personal and successful growth for the region's future leaders, helping our next generation of leaders to thrive, meet their goals and go after their dreams. This program is structured around one-on-one consultations, group face-to-face catch ups and workshops on key topics, access to our resource library and scheduled accountability check-ins. We are looking forward to working with our 2021/2022 program sponsor, CatholicCare Social Services. ________________________________________ Participant Eligibility: Mentors: All program participants must be a member of Toowoomba Chamber Mentors will ideally have at least 10 years experience in a variety of business settings Mentees: All program participants must be a member of Toowoomba Chamber Mentees are to be 35 years of age or under Important Dates: EOIs Close | Monday 12th July at 5pm Participants Notified | Monday 19th at 5pm Launch Lunch | Monday 26th July Mentee EoI: https://form.jotform.com/211718349365865 Mentor EoI: https://form.jotform.com/211721809025853

08.01.2022 Get your business ready for a (MUCH) better year ahead! 2020 will be over soon (yeah!) so it's time to get your business in pole position for a better 2021. This year has really demonstrated just how critical digital skills are in any business - so many have needed to go digital, or go down. Our short, sharp webinars (free) or more in-depth online workshops are a great way to keep your business at the front of the pack, as the digital landscape continues to shift and evolve. ... FREE WEBINARS Let’s make an entire months' worth of content using Canva 27 Nov | 10am - 12pm Video Marketing 101 3 Dec | 5.30pm - 6.30pm Winning the SEO game 4 Dec | 10am - 11am How to write a highly effective business plan 11 Dec | 10am - 11am 3 ways to drive more money into your business now 15 Dec | 11am - 12pm Growing your business using social media 18 Dec | 10am - 11am ONLINE WORKSHOPS All online workshops are great value at just $24.19 inc GST & Booking Fee. Digital trends 2021! What to expectand how to implement these trends within your business! 8 Dec | 9am - 11am Digital trends 2021! What to expectand how to implement these trends within your business! 9 Dec | 8am - 10am How you create a captivating digital event! 19 Jan | 8am - 10am How you create a captivating digital event! 20 Jan | 8am - 10am Digital Summit 16 Feb | 8am - 10am Digital Summit 17 Feb | 8am - 10am For full details of the webinars and workshops visit https://asbas.rdabrisbane.org.au/workshops

08.01.2022 Business At Dusk WHEN | 16th September @ 5.30 pm WHERE | USQ Student Guild COST | Members $25 / Non-members $45... Join the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce for our next Business@Dusk event hosted by the USQ Student Guild. Business@Dusk is Toowoombas premier networking evening and your opportunity to connect with the local business community, develop local supply chain opportunities and learn more about our host. Register at https://toowoombatickets.com.au//businessdusk-usq-student-

07.01.2022 Macintyre Wind Farm News & Timeline ACCIONA has reached an agreement with CleanCo, the QLD Government’s newest renewable energy generator, for it to become the independent owner and operator of a 100MW wind farm within the MacIntyre precinct this will be known as the Karara Wind Farm. In addition, CleanCo will acquire the annual production of 400MW from ACCIONA’s facilities for 10 years through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). ACCIONA will develop the MacIntyre project in partnership with Ark Energy Corporation, a subsidiary of Korea Zinc Co., and the Australian vehicle for its clean energy business.

06.01.2022 Awesome news. Great to see. Please support Mungindi

06.01.2022 Innovate with NBN Grants Program NBN Australia has just launched a grants program for businesses in regional Australia. The Innovate with nbn grants program gives businesses across seven separate categories the opportunity to win a share of $95,000 in funding to support the development of their innovative, digitally led idea. Categories are:... Health, Agriculture, Tourism, Arts, Education, Indigenous Business, and Women in Regional Business. We’ve partnered with the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) to bring this program to life, together we’re focused on unearthing and supporting businesses that are using the nbn network to develop products or solutions that improve productivity or social outcomes for regional and remote Australians. The winner of each category will receive a $10,000 grant, with the overall Innovate with nbn major grant of $25,000 to be awarded to the most outstanding application across all categories. Applications are now being accepted until 30 November 2020. More information, including eligibility criteria and the application for is available at nbnco.com.au/innovatewithnbn

05.01.2022 Have your say about the proposed MacIntyre Windfarm Precinct project Acciona and CleanCo have engaged EMM Consulting to conduct a Social Impact Assessment as part of the planning process for the MacIntyre Windfarm Precinct project. EMM Consulting will be hosting three 1-hour Focus Groups to discuss the potential impacts, benefits and opportunities of the project. Submit your expression of interest to participate at one of the three community workshops, text 0438 612 790 or em...ail [email protected] Warwick 1 December 2020 at 5:30pm Inglewood 2 December 2020 at 12:00pm Stanthorpe 2 December 2020 at 5:30pm Location details will be provided closer to the date. Cannot attend a workshop? The MacIntyre Windfarm Precinct Project Community Survey provides an additional opportunity to have your say. Please follow the link below to complete the 5-minute survey. This opportunity closes on 3 December 2020: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MacIntyre For further information about the wind farm project - https://www.acciona.com.au//wind-power/macintyre-wind-farm/

04.01.2022 Small Business Training Opportunities Toowoomba Regional Council has launched two training programs designed to help small and medium businesses in our region. Build a Better Business Program... TRC has partnered with TAFE Queensland to deliver a training series of workshops and business mentoring to help small business owners and managers improve their business skills and build their business. Through the Build a Better Business workshops and mentoring, expert business mentors will guide you through critical periods of business development and arm you with the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to clarify your ideas and move into the next stage of business growth. As part of this program, participants may be able to undertake a Certificate IV in Small Business Management (BSB42518). For more information, please visit Build a Better Business or www.tr.qld.gov.au/smallbusiness Expressions of interest close on 13th November 2020. Digital Marketing Mentoring Program TRC has partnered with @DMS Creative to offer fully subsidised expert advice to local businesses, as part of its Digital Marketing Mentoring program. Whether you run an established business or are looking for ways to best use digital marketing the program will provide growing small and medium businesses in the Region with expert advice. The program will help navigate digital marketing and service technologies, tailored to their industry and specific business needs, and help you build a Digital Business Action Plan. For more information, please visit Digital Marketing Mentoring program or www.tr.qld.gov.au/smallbusiness Expressions of interest close on 20th November 2020.

03.01.2022 The Farm Army In many rural areas, it’s almost impossible to find people with trades that will drive the distances to do work. At the same time there are tens of thousands of grey nomads, holiday makers, tradies on holiday, even backpackers who have skills that are willing to help but just don’t know where their help could be best put to use. Back in 2014 Charles and Tracy Alder spoke with farmers who had received help from the Buy a Bale campaign but were now looking for tra...die help. After Brisbane had the mud army after the 2011 floods , why not create a Farm Army we thought? Today the Farm Army is over 15,000 people strong with volunteers registered from all over the world to help out of rural communities with a target of 100,000 registered volunteers by 2022. Since the Farm Army was created thousands of volunteers have performed Farm Rescue’s , Community Rescues, One day corporate volunteering days and some have made their way around Australia on their own providing valuable support to farmers and rural communities. While most have worked in drought areas as it has been the predominant natural disaster, some have also worked in flood and fire affected areas of Australia. Each week thousands of farm jobs are emailed and sms’d to Farm Army members. If you’re a farmer and you have a job that needs doing, List it here: http://www.farmarmy.com.au/submit-a-job If you have skills and are interested in offering your time, a bit of sweat and are keen to meet some great outback / rural people, register for Job Notifications emails at http://www.farmarmy.com.au/register-for-jobs

03.01.2022 Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT, SKILLS, SMALL AND FAMILY BUSINESS SENATOR FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIA The Hon Dr John McVeigh MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR GROOM... MEDIA RELEASE NEW SCHEME HELPS SMALL BUSINESSES IN TOOWOOMBA AND DARLING DOWNS GET PAID ON TIME The Morrison Government is supporting millions of small businesses by helping to ensure they get paid on time. Legislation to implement the Payment Times Reporting Scheme was passed by the Senate today, which will put every big business on notice. Under the scheme, large businesses and applicable government enterprises with a total annual income of over $100 million will have to report publicly on how and when they pay their small business suppliers. This scheme will provide unprecedented transparency and will show Australians how big businesses pay their suppliers. This transparency will help small businesses make more informed decisions about who they do business with, and the general public can make better decisions about the large businesses they purchase from. Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash said the measure would support small businesses, especially through COVID-19 challenges. Late payments have a significant impact on small business cash flow and inhibit the ability of a firm to invest, grow and employ, Minister Cash said. Federal Member for Groom Dr John McVeigh said shining a light on large business payment performance will lead to fairer and faster payments for Australias 3.5 million small and family businesses. The Morrison Government is committed to striking the right balance to ensure faster and fairer payment terms to local small and family businesses in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, Dr McVeigh said. The Government developed the legislation following extensive consultations with industry associations and representatives of small and large business since early 2019. Their feedback has directly informed the design and operation of the scheme. The scheme will begin on 1 January 2021.

01.01.2022 nbn Regional Co-Investment Fund nbn released the Regional Co-Investment Fund (RCIF) guidelines on Wednesday 23 June 2021. nbn’s $300 million Regional Co-investment Fund is intended to further enhance broadband services for rural and regional households, businesses and communities to help meet the growing and diverse needs of Australians living in regional areas. Regional Co-Investment Fund... The fund is designed to uplift digital capability in regional and remote areas, those outside capital cities that are served by nbn’s Fixed Wireless or Satellite infrastructure, by increasing the number of premises that can access technologies that support higher speeds. The types of projects that are eligible under the fund are: 1. Satellite or Fixed Wireless areas to be switched to Fibre to the Premises, and 2. Satellite areas to be switched to Fixed Wireless. Other technology change options that may be considered on a case by case basis include scenarios where: the majority of premises included in the application are currently connected via nbn Fixed Wireless or Satellite, the upgrade does not overlap with nbn’s other programs or future network plans in that area, the upgrade would deliver significant community benefit; and the project is not located in any Urban Centre classified by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as ‘Major Urban’, i.e. with a population of 100,000 or more (as outlined in the guidelines). Ineligible projects Please note within the guidelines a number of activities that will not be eligible under the fund, this includes projects that target less than 50 premises or are under $500K total build cost. Who can apply All levels of government, including eligible local governments, are invited to co-invest alongside nbn to deliver improved broadband services to communities where those investments would otherwise be sub-commercial. nbn encourages all levels of governments, where possible, to work together and with nbn to maximise benefits for regional Australia. Please find the guidelines, including eligibility criteria, on the nbn website. More information on social media nbn has also posted about the RCIF on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com//urn:li:activity:6813253119431073 Closing Date The closing date for applications is 18 February 2022 with first build estimate requests required no later than 1 October 2021.

01.01.2022 The next round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund opens mid-January 2021. Before registering and applying for the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) grant, you should understand the responsibilities and expectations of eligible organisations. This will help you submit a valid application and understand the chances of a positive outcome. The objective of the fund is to allocate funding to not-for-profit community groups to help them provide services, leisure activities... and opportunities for Queensland communities. The funding limit is between $500 and $35,000. For more info visit https://www.justice.qld.gov.au//community/guidelines/about

01.01.2022 Wind power to drive first year scholarships at University of Southern Queensland! MACINTYRE WIND FARM SCHOLARSHIP: ACCIONA, in partnership with the University of Southern Queensland, has established the MacIntyre Wind Farm Scholarship. The initiative, designed to provide financial support to local students, is now open for applications. Students undertaking their first year of study in 2021 are invited to apply.... The scholarship is open to students residing in the following Local Government Areas: Southern Downs Regional Council, Goondiwindi Regional Council and Toowoomba Regional Council. About the MacIntyre Wind Farm project Located approximately 50 km South-West of Warwick and approximately 10 kms south of Karara, the proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm is expected to be ACCIONA’s largest wind farm in Australia, with a total capacity of 1,026MW. MacIntyre's 1,026MW capacity will generate clean electricity to power about 700,000 homes and avoid the emission of nearly three million tons of CO2 per year. For full details, visit https://www.acciona.com.au//wind-power-to-drive-first-ye/

01.01.2022 Yesterday RDA DDSW were involved in the Toowoomba Charity Expo. We have so many big hearted people helping those in need... animals and people! Watch the video below to find out how you can help support the great work being done across our region.