Annual Report 2014-15

Corporate Plan Priority 7 – Diversification of our economy
While recognising our world class tourism industry, the Council will also focus on diversifying the
economy with an emphasis on “smart economy” businesses and rural futures.
Key achievements include:
   Council commenced the development of the Noosa Local Economic Plan. Public workshops have been
    held and a Project Focus Group established. A Noosa Economic Profile has been published.
   Council has entered into a two year funding agreement with Tourism Noosa to guide the management of
    the Tourism Levy and to outline roles and responsibilities. During the 2014/15 period, Council continued
    to have a very close working relationship with Tourism Noosa.
   Council purchased the former Peregian Beach Bowls Club site at Peregian Beach in November 2014.
    The site has subsequently been cleared and community consultation undertaken on its future use
    including the option of a digital hub. A design charrette has been completed looking at options for future
    use of the site.
   During 2014/15, support has been provided to encourage the ongoing development of the ICT sector in
    Noosa. Council was a partner in an innovation networking event and a sponsor of the GovHack event.
    We also provided data sets to the GovHack event.
   A significant amount of work was undertaken during 2014/15 to establish the Electric Bus Trial
    agreement. A MOU was entered into with Translink following a feasibility study and development of the
    trial program. The trial will be undertaken in 2015/16. The Council continued its free holiday bus
    program in 2014/15.
   During 2014/15, the Council approved 99% of development applications with the number of applications
    showing a steady increase in activity – in the 6 months to 30 June 2015, there were 193 development
    applications.
   A considerable amount of time has been spent on building strong working relationships with key
    business groups. This includes:-
    o   Councillors working closely with the Country Noosa Group;
    o   Support for the Noosa Junction Association (and ongoing funding via the levy); and
    o   Liaison with Cooroy Chamber of Commerce, CCIQ Noosa and the Hastings Street Association.




Noosa Council Annual Report 2014/15                                                                   Page 9