A new project will explore how places, people and business link together in the Surf Coast Shire to help foster Prosperous Places.
The Prosperous Places Project will describe the economy we have in the Surf Coast, how it is evolving, identify our current skills and create an action plan for the future skills and businesses that may come with change.
Residents and businesses are invited to help by sharing their thoughts on what will make their local area a prosperous place.
Cr David Bell said the project was an opportunity to address any challenges and strengthen the local economy.
“The Surf Coast Shire has a unique economy, with thriving non-traditional sectors such as surfing, tourism and creative industries. The prevalence of home-based businesses is also significant,” he said.
“Given our growing population, we want to understand what types of jobs are needed now and in years to come so young people and existing residents have an opportunity to live and work here if they wish.”
The project also aims to outline how to improve quality of life in the shire, by exploring the connection between people, places and businesses.
“The Surf Coast Shire is a place where people want to live, work and visit,” Cr Bell said.
“Ultimately we want to strike the right balance where we continue to see innovative businesses and skilled people with great job opportunities – all while retaining the coastal character and hinterland charm that our towns and communities are renowned for.”
People are invited to provide input to the Prosperous Places project in March.
Community engagement sessions
Drop in at any time to the following venues on the below dates:
Café La Hoot, Winchelsea: 4 March, 10am – 12pm
Surf Coast Sport and Recreation Centre, Torquay: 17 March, 2pm – 6pm
Anglesea Memorial Hall: 18 March, 2pm – 6pm
Lorne Community House: 24 March, 2pm – 6pm
Deans Marsh Community Hall: 25 March, 4pm – 6pm
Business engagement sessions
A presentation and discussion will be held at:
Happy Spaces – Gilbert St, Torquay: 3 March, 8.30am – 10am
Great Ocean Road Resort, Anglesea: 11 March, 6pm – 7.30pm
Cumberland Lorne Resort: 12 March, 8.30am – 10am
All information and ideas received at the sessions will help inform a strategy that will plan for the future of the Surf Coast Shire as a place to live, work, operate a business or visit.
To stay up-to-date with the project, visit www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/YourSay/PPP or join the Surf Coast Business Collective Facebook page @SurfCoastBusinessCollective.
The project is supported by the Victorian Government through Regional Development Victoria.
