REDLAND City Council will not draw up a report mapping out an economic strategy for North Stradbroke Island after mining ends.
The idea was due to be debated at Wednesday’s meeting but was pipped at the post when the state government announced its plan to set up an economic development committee on Tuesday.
The state will invite island businesses and leaders on to its Economic Transition Group, due to be set up next week, nearly three years after the former Labor government Environment Minister Kate Jones announced a similar committee.
Division 2 councillor Craig Ogilvie said he was surprised but delighted the state had finally acted to set up an island committee.
However, he questioned the state’s dedication to the transition group saying it had no representatives from National Parks, QYAC or the community and no terms of reference to outline how often it would meet.
He also criticised the commitment of only one government officer Dr Kathy Shaefer to the committee and asked council to consider its own commitment of officers and resources.
"It all looks a bit hurriedly cobbled together to avoid the embarrassment of my motion," Cr Ogilvie said. "What is needed is a whole of government approach to real actions and not just dreaming or talking."
However, mayor Karen Williams said talks with the state had been ongoing and she had written two letters to deputy premier Jeff Seeney - one on December and another in April - asking the state to step in and plan for the island’s future.
She also called on Cr Ogilvie to prove his commitment to such a committee by tabling his letters to the state.
"We are at the very early stages of forming this group under the guidance of Dr Kathy Shaefer," Cr Williams said.
"Consideration for all stakeholders will be put forward and there is no committee formed yet to draw up terms of reference."
Cr Williams said the council could also benefit from the funding of island infrastructure from the state's Royalties from the Regions program.
Cleveland MP Mark Robinson and Cr Williams will co-chair the group, expected to have up to nine members.
Mr Robinson said invitations to join the committee would be sent to businesses such as Straddie Camping, Straddie Ferries, Straddie Chamber of Commerce, The University of Queensland, and Sibelco.
He said Stradbroke Flyer owners would not be on the committee but would be able to participate in all public consultations.
The group will not affect the operations of the well-established Quandamooka round table forum formed to address the implementation of the Indigenous Land Use Agreements.
“The intent is that both groups will work together on a vision and strategy for the island’s future,” Mr Robinson said.
