Message from the Chair & CEO

Despite dealing with the ongoing challenges and disruptions of COVID-19 for an entire financial year, our region saw the smallest percentage decrease of total visitors (domestic and international) of any region in Queensland. We also experienced the second highest percentage growth in intrastate visitors (business, leisure and VRF) within the state in the year ending December 2020 compared to 2019, which complements the strength and diversity of our industries cementing Central Queensland as the economic powerhouse of the state and nation. Significantly contributing to these results is the nearly $5 billion dollars worth of major infrastructure projects underway in water, roads, defence and construction as well as the amplification of destination marketing thanks to additional Covid recovery funds from the State government via Tourism and Events Queensland. Capricorn Enterprise hosted a record number of Television shows, from live breakfast weather crosses (10 days) to lifestyle shows to food and fishing series. We executed a number of major and minor multi-media campaigns which targeted traditional and new audiences. We advocated for funding for events and new tourism infrastructure. We hosted some 20 business and industry forums, workshops and networking events with over 500 attendees, produced 50 ‘Inside Capricorn’ edms and welcomed an impressive line up of keynote speakers from numerous industries throughout 2020/21. The team at Capricorn Enterprise forged on in support of our Members and broader community in advocating our work and lifestyle opportunities by launching our Work In Central Queensland.com.au platform in September 2020, followed by our Live Capricorn Coast.com.au platform in April 2021. The significance of these strategic projects should not be underestimated in their ability to provide a one-stop-shop for new audiences who are considering relocating to our region. In partnership with our major local government funding partner, Livingstone Shire Council, a successful grant from the Australian Government Bushfire Recovery Fund, allowed us to deliver the Taste Capricorn Coast project which forged connections between producers, restaurants and retailers. During 2020/21, industry accolades and major events reflected the commitment and passion of our local communities including: > Our wonderful volunteers at the Capricorn Coast Visitor Information Centre received the “Community Group Service Award” at the Livingstone Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards. > Yeppoon was named Runner Up in the inaugural “Top Tourism Town Awards” hosted by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC). > Rockhampton played host to BEEF21 in May which achieved a record 115,000 visitors over a 20% increased footprint, arguably the largest event in the southern hemisphere during the covid crisis. From the Keppel Islands to the Central Queensland Highlands, sincere thanks to our Members, Sponsors, Partners, Staff and Volunteers whose ongoing support and collaboration is the heartbeat of Capricorn Enterprise. After such a difficult year last year, due to COVID shutdowns and restrictions, we have had a much more positive start to 2021. The region has benefited from significant government and industry investment, a booming housing market, a considerable increase in visitors and some amazing events. It appears that Australians are discovering the benefits of regional Australia and are buying property and visiting regional Queensland in droves. Central Queensland has stood out as a place that hosts big events very well. The greatest achievement being the Beef Australia event in May this year, which was attended by 115,000 people. What an achievement by all those involved. We are very fortunate to live in this region where our movement has not been restricted and people can enjoy a relatively normal life. Many large construction projects accelerated, including the long-awaited Rookwood Weir, major upgrades at Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area, the upgrade to the Capricornia Correctional Centre and major road projects around Rockhampton. There are of course many more diverse projects being undertaken in the region, which demonstrates the confidence investors have in Central Queensland. These investments have several years to completion, so we need to take advantage of this trend and continue planning and developing the next investment opportunities. Attracting people to regional Queensland is one of our challenges and therefore, Capricorn Enterprise has invested in and launched Work in Central Queensland.com.au and Live Capricorn Coast.com.au. These platforms highlight the benefits and opportunities of living in our region and are designed to attract and assist families to relocate. The Board of Capricorn Enterprise would like to acknowledge the wonderful work of the staff and volunteers, led by Mary Carroll, who work tirelessly to support members every day and do a great job of promoting our region to the rest of the country. The Board also wishes to acknowledge and thank Neil Lethlean, who retired on 1st July 2021. Neil’s contribution over a period of 11 years has been outstanding and we hope he can enjoy a well-earned retirement. We look forward to a new year with enthusiasm and a quiet confidence for our region.

Derek Lightfoot

Chairman