The Southern Downs is a prime location to tap into a share of the $15 billion worth of business on offer in the Surat Basin Coal Seam Gas Project.
This statement was made by the Southern Downs Regional Council economic development officer John Randall after last week’s seminar, which gave tips to local business people on how to take advantage of this huge opportunity for the region.
“One of the key advantages we have is, we are the closest regional centre to the Surat Basin that doesn’t have the housing, infrastructure and social problems,” Mr Randall said.
He said the Southern Downs also had the labour force, whereas towns closer to the project like Roma, Chinchilla and Dalby, have difficulties in finding suitable staff.
“This project is the biggest business break for local businesses ever but, for any business to be part of the Surat Basin supply chain, no matter how big or how small, they have to formally register their capability,” Mr Randall said.
“At the moment, most local manufacturers and suppliers support the local market but, when that market is down, the local businesses go down.
“The Surat Basin has $15 billion on offer over the next 10 years.”
Clifton steel fabricator Trevor Shields of TJ Welding said he attended because he would like to know more about tapping into the mining sector.
“We’ve done a bit of subcontracting to mining and would like to extend our options in this industry,” Mr Shields said.
“I loved this seminar, it was really informative and the networking was excellent,” he said.
The Southern Downs Regional Council will continue to work with local businesses to try to get them included in the Surat Basin’s supply chain.
Anyone who would like more details on the Surat Basin supply chain opportunities should contact Mr Randall on (07) 4661 7332.
Story: Rebecca Brown
