What's Happening?
The inaugural Make It Mitchell Forum was held at The Grove, Hidden Valley in Wallan, bringing together over 150 business, community, and government leaders. The event was organized by Mitchell Shire Council and featured prominent speakers such as Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes, National Intermodal CEO James Baulderstone, and Melbourne Victory Managing Director Caroline Carnegie. The forum focused on the theme 'Where Growth Meets Opportunity,' highlighting Mitchell's potential as a dynamic investment destination. Strategically located near Melbourne, Mitchell offers direct access to key transport corridors, positioning it as a future national logistics and employment hub. With a forecasted population growth of over 245 percent, the region is set to support investment across various sectors including retail, logistics, agribusiness, health, tourism, and education.
Why It's Important?
The Make It Mitchell Forum underscores the region's potential to become a major growth and investment hub in Victoria. The event highlighted the importance of strategic planning and collaboration across sectors to harness the opportunities presented by rapid population growth. By focusing on infrastructure development and business confidence, Mitchell Shire Council aims to attract investment and create jobs, ensuring the community thrives. The forum's discussions on regional investment, economic growth, and skills development are crucial for building liveable communities and fostering sustainable development. Stakeholders stand to benefit from streamlined investment processes and shared community benefits, making Mitchell an attractive destination for future investments.
What's Next?
Following the forum, Mitchell Shire Council plans to continue fostering partnerships and improving infrastructure to support business confidence and investment. The forthcoming Beveridge Intermodal Precinct is expected to further enhance Mitchell's position as a logistics hub. The council will focus on unlocking land and streamlining investment processes to deliver shared benefits for the community. Continued collaboration with government and industry leaders will be essential in realizing the region's vision as a major growth and investment hub. Future forums and networking sessions are likely to be organized to maintain momentum and engagement among stakeholders.
Beyond the Headlines
The forum's emphasis on collaboration and strategic planning highlights the ethical and cultural dimensions of regional development. By prioritizing community needs and sustainable growth, Mitchell Shire Council is setting a precedent for responsible development practices. The focus on creating liveable communities through partnerships and infrastructure improvements reflects a commitment to long-term regional prosperity. As Mitchell continues to grow, the council's approach may serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges and opportunities.
