ANNUAL REPORT 2014 GLADSTONE AREA PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT LIMITED

72 Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone Q 4680 PO Box 5186, Gladstone Q 4680 P 07 4972 4000 | F 07 4972 7541 | E [email protected] www.gladstoneregion.info ABN 67 010 613 831

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES

GLADSTONE Marina Ferry Terminal Bryan Jordan Drive Gladstone Q 4680 P (07) 4972 9000

4680 CHILD AND FAMILY CENTRE 105 St Gladstone Q 4680 P (07) 4972 8203

MIRIAM VALE Roe Street , Q 4677 P (07) 4974 5428

AGNES WATER/1770 Springs Road Agnes Water, Q 4677 P (07) 4902 1533

GLADSTONE REGION MOBILE IVAN P (07) 4972 9000

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS OUR VISION

13 Our Vision and Corporate Aims Advance the through the promotion and development of business, industry and tourism for the benefit of our members 4 2014 Key Highlights and the community.

5 GAPDL Directors

6 Corporate Governance CORPORATE AIMS 7 GAPDL Staff

8 Chair’s Report Promote the Gladstone Region as the “Region of Choice” for environmentally responsible business and industry. 9 CEO’s Report Market and develop the Gladstone Region as a preferred tourism, investment and lifestyle destination. 11 2014 Financial Report Foster community acceptance of responsible industry and development. 16 Investment and Regional Development Encourage and foster new sustainable business and industry investment for the Gladstone Region. 17 Tourism and Events Insight Identify and facilitate strategies that will grow existing regional 18 Communities For Children business.

GAPDL Small Business Advisory Service Facilitate programs that enhance the wellbeing and lifestyle of the 19 Gladstone Region.

20 Volunteer Ambassadors

21 What GAPDL Does for the Gladstone Region

22 Image Gallery

24 Corporate Partners 3 2014 KEY HIGHLIGHTS GAPDL DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

• Facilitated partnership negotiations with Ergon Energy, • Ongoing advocacy for the approval of the Hummock Hill Gladstone Regional Council and Central Island Development – Pacificus Project to the Federal Motorsports – Inc for significant infrastructure Minister for Environment. Leigh Zimmerlie Maxine Brushe Mark Spearing Vinny Sanders works investment to secure mains power supply for the • Assisted journalists with local content to produce The Chairperson Deputy Chair Secretary Treasurer Benaraby motorsports precinct. Australian Business Review Report on Gladstone • Secured $145,000 for the Gladstone Region Marketing showcasing the economic growth and opportunities in Campaign under the Tourism and Events Queensland the region. 2014/15 RTO Contestable Funding Program. Marketing • Produced and released two editions of the Gladstone CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS campaign budget $250,000 in partnership with Region Major Projects Status Report. Gladstone Regional Council. • Represented the Gladstone Region at the 2014 National • Worked closely with Motorsports – Economic Development Conference, Darwin. Benaraby Inc to develop a Business Plan and facilitating • Continuation of the Communities For Children funding the development of an application to the QGC for five years to 2019. Communities Fund for infrastructure funding to install • Child and family centre sourced new premises to expand gating system at the motorsport precinct. the services and program available to families and • Produced a comprehensive RV Friendly initiatives children in the Gladstone Region. economic benefits brochure including identifying top • Commenced development of 5 year strategic plan and 6 feasible local communities with the potential for activity workplan for GAPDL Communities for Children. successful implementation. • Development of the Gladstone Region & Banana Shire • Participated in Gladstone Regional Council’s working Destination Tourism Plan to provide definitive direction Darryl Branthwaite Matt Burnett Mellissa Case Grant Cooper group in support of developing an application to for tourism and events in the region towards 2020, Diversity Queensland for a Gladstone Region CALD highlighting the key projects. Economic Participation Project. • Formation of the Destination Tourism Development • Compiled a successfully shortlisted Gladstone Group (DTDG) to act as the key co-ordination point for Foundation Round 2 application for the development the region’s tourism industry – owning delivery and and construction of a Child and Family Centre for the monitoring of the destination tourism plan and guiding Gladstone Region. communication with industry partners. • Submitted project nominations to the Queensland • Deliver major community event Celebrate the Sea. Government Strong Choices Investment Program. • Coordinate and deliver the 2014 Gladstone Seafood • Delivered the ‘Shaping Our Regions Future’ Leaders Festival in partnership with Gladstone Festival and Conference 2014. Attended by over 100 local and Events, which was attended by over 20,000 people and regional delegates. sold over 1 tonne of fresh local seafood. Brent Jordison Terry Purcell

4 5 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE GAPDL STAFF 2014

GAPDL is an unlisted public company, limited by guarantee. Under its Constitution, GAPDL is a not-for-profit company.

Directors are appointed /elected according to the Constitution, and are invited to bring their business skills and strategic decision making to promote the interests of GAPDL, its partners and members. Directors act in a voluntary capacity, do not receive director fees or meeting fees, do not hold shares in the Company, and are not paid dividends.

Directors, as the governing council of the Company, shall be guided by GAPDL’s Constitution, together with its objectives, by-laws and policies. A director must at all times be a GAPDL financial member or a representative of a financial member business or community organisation.

Glenn Churchill FAIM Erickson Noakes Karen Sweeney Maree Tisdell Chief Executive Officer Investment and Regional Tourism and Business Communities for Children MEETINGS ATTENDED Development Executive Development Executive Executive Officer Officer Officer BOARD MEMBERS MEETING ATTENDANCE RECORD

Leigh Zimmerlie (Chairperson) 8 of 12

Maxine Brushe (Deputy Chair) 10 of 12

Mark Spearing (Secretary) 10 of 12

Vinny Sanders (Treasurer) 7 of 12 Greg Realf Patricia Rizzato Brooke Thomassen Jessica Heuschele Matt Burnett 8 of 12 Tourism and Information Communications, Media Digital Specialist and Events Project Support Officer Services Officer Agnes Water and Marketing Officer Officer & Miriam Vale Darryl Branthwaite 10 of 12

Mellissa Case 8 of 12

Grant Cooper 10 of 12

Brent Jordison 8 of 12

Terry Purcell 10 of 12

Kaihla Dennis Lynette Spencer Kim Williams Debbie Flaherty Finance Officer Tourism and Information Senior Project Executive Project Officer GAPDL LIFE MEMBERS Services Officer Gladstone Communities for Children • Miss Dulcie Benn • Mrs Maxine Brushe • Mr Alex Campbell • Mr Peter Corones AM • Mr Graham Fenton • Mr Bill McDonald • Mr Peter Odgers • Mrs Judy Whicker • Mr Noel Wootton • Mr Leo Zussino Leigh West Melissa Dahtler Kacey Smith Project Officer Project Officer Centre Coordinator Corporate Services Digital, Social & Graphic C4C Boyne Island

6 7 CHAIR’S REPORT CEO’S REPORT

It is with pleasure that I deliver my report as Chair of GAPDL, a not for profit, member and 2014 and now into 2015 has been another exciting and stimulating period for GAPDL. We partnership based organization. have encountered and overcome challenges; experienced exciting and new creative opportunities, to which we should be proud and pleased with positive outcomes of 2014-2015 was another busy couple of years for the GAPDL staff Team, our Visitor Information excellence and achievements. Centre Volunteers and volunteer Board of Directors, Maxine Brushe (Deputy Chair), Mark Spearing (Secretary), Vinny Sanders (Treasurer), Matt Burnett, Darryl Branthwaite, Brent GAPDL plays an integral role in the promotion, marketing, development, growth, prosperity Jordison, Terry Purcell, Grant Cooper and Garry Scanlan, who I sincerely thank for their insight, strategic thinking and and livability of the Gladstone Region, rural heartland of Banana Shire and the Southern Great Barrier Reef. commitment to GAPDL. I must also acknowledge our CEO, Glenn Churchill for his passion for our wonderful region. GAPDL was significantly shaped by the fast moving agenda resulting from various negotiated partnerships, Destination Q, GAPDL has over 33 years delivered a substantial service to the Gladstone Region and we recognize the support of various member’s requests and our Board’s strategic thinking and planning. Australian and State Government Departments, the Gladstone Regional Council, Banana Shire Council, Tourism and Events Queensland, major corporations, businesses and individuals who also support us. As part of GAPDL’s commitment to our community role, we continue to work in partnership with major stakeholders and key agencies. In particular Gladstone Regional Council, other tiers of Government, Tourism and Events Queensland, Banana Shire Our Visitor Information Centers proudly operate 363 days a year through the hard work of our wonderful team of volunteers. Council, regional business, tourism operators, major industrial corporates, investment partners, community organisations, We have local, interstate and overseas visitors who always leave our Visitor Information Centers with lots of exciting and individuals and most importantly our loyal and valued members... to achieve our Corporate Vision. This commitment interesting things to do in our wonderful diverse region. strengthens our accord to support our member’s visions and add value for them.

GAPDL like all business must focus strongly on the future and sustainability, we must work on strategic plans to ensure the GAPDL also recognises the value, benefits and latest up to date advice of being members with other advocacy and service future of our business and provide real value to our members. organisations including: Queensland Information Centre Association (Visit Queensland), Australian Institute of Company Directors, Australian Institute of Management, Agforce, Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Australian Charities Not-for-Profit Thanks to GAPDL’s unwavering commitment in partnership with Gladstone Regional Council, Tourism and Events Qld, the Commission, Australian Cyber Security Network, Cruise Down Under Australia, AusIndustry, Adventure Queensland Gladstone Ports Corporation for the benefit of our members and the community, we look forward to welcoming major Cruise (Backpackers), Institute of Certified Bookkeepers and more. Liners to our Port City and Region. Since commencing in 1983 and approaching 33 years, GAPDL is proud of “What it does for the Region”, its achievements, The planned arrival of the Carnival Australia P&O Cruise liners is a significant achievement; I also draw your attention to the memories, moments and milestones. The opportunities, ideas, initiatives and progress have provided the platform for GAPDL many other achievements, milestones and positive outcomes that have been outlined in this Annual Report booklet. to continue to play a cutting edge role in the future of the Region, especially at a time when we witness the development of the new proposed Gladstone Region Economic Development Strategy to which GAPDL will actively contribute and participate in its The diversity of our region brings together major industry, tourism, the community and the environment working together in implementation. harmony, which is a rare and precious commodity, which we all value very much. The role of GAPDL must continue to be strongly linked with local and regional plans and objectives. Our focus as a regional Financial sustainability as a not for profit business, limited by guarantee, is challenging and we rely on memberships, peak body for investment, regional development, all aspects of tourism, small and medium business advisory services partnerships, strong board decisions, experienced personnel, knowledgeable and helpful Volunteers in our Visitor Information (SBAS), information services and centres (VIC), Communities for Children (C4C Child and Family Centre), business centres and following strong financial principals. I take time to thank our Past Treasurer Vinny Sanders and our Interim Treasurer development and more, has further enabled GAPDL to make our representative voice heard. Our dedicated Peter Odgers for his keen accountant’s eye and good fiscal management. Peter is a Life Member of GAPDL. GAPDL team will continue to work for the benefit for our members and community as a non-government representative / advocacy organisation. Financially the focus must remain on long-term sustainability and the growth of our membership and partnership relationships. Local support from the community is indicative of the wide and diverse range of the volunteer GAPDL will continue to build strong relationships with our members and partners and always represent our member’s and the representation on the Board of Directors and our wonderful volunteer Ambassadors. We are very region’s best interests while working towards achieving our corporate vision. fortunate to have such dedicated people at all levels that are prepared to give so much for the future. I strongly endorse and agree with our Chairperson Leigh Zimmerlie’s edifying comments in her report. I again thank our loyal GAPDL members, corporate partners and our community for their continued and valued support. Financial sustainability as a not for profit organisation, limited by guarantee, relies on partnerships, memberships, skilled personnel, loyal volunteers and good fiscal principles. GAPDL may not always Kind Regards be “Everything to Everybody”, but working closely with, and for our members, will always be our priority “to achieve the best we can”.

Leigh Zimmerlie Chair.

8 9 CEO’S REPORT FINANCIAL REPORT 2014

The directors present their report on Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd for the financial year ended 31 December 2014.

Financially the focus must remain on long-term sustainability built upon the importance of our partnerships and membership Information on directors value, re-investment, our capability of leveraging from sectors with intent of producing key positive outcomes and business plans The names of each person who has been a director during the year and to the date of this report are: that reflect efficiencies and effectiveness. Zimmerlie, Lesley Leigh Burnett, Matthew James Purcell, Terry Odgers, Peter Mark If we act like a business, talk like a business, perform like a business, we will be treated like a business. All business is a business Brushe, Maxine Marie Spearing, Mark Branthwaite, Darryl Sanders, Vincent of client relationships. Cooper, Grant Kevin Jordison, Brent Scanlan, Garry Case, Melissa Directors have been in office since the start of the financial year to the date of this report unless otherwise stated. The future is unfolding. We now live, work, play and do business in a world that is fast becoming globally connected to people like never before, with social media (Website, Facebook, Instagram, Hashtag, LinkedIn, Twitter, IBeacon, Apps and more), Company secretary promotions, marketing, visitor enquiries, campaign services, on a 24/7 basis. Be assured that GAPDL will continue to “punch The following person held the position of Company secretary at the end of the financial year: above its weight” to advocate, communicate and represent our member’s best interests in these times of continual demands. Lesley Zimmerlie has been the company secretary since 1/11/2013. GAPDL is strongly positioned to forge greater partnerships and develop new opportunities for the Gladstone Region, Banana Shire and Southern Great Barrier Reef, through our Destination Tourism Development Group, Regional Development Reference Principal activities Group, Communities for Children Committee, Policy Review Working Group and our Gladstone Region Cruise Liner Facilitation The principal activity of Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd during the financial year was Regional Economic Working Group. Development, Promotion and Marketing, Regional Small Business Advisory Services, Regional Communities for Children Program and Regional Visitor Information Centre Services in the Gladstone Regional and Banana Shire. No significant changes in the I am certain that the future looks bright, exciting and in very good hands with our new Board of Directors for the benefit of our nature of the Company’s activity occurred during the financial year. GAPDL members and community, working towards achieving more positive outcomes with the anticipated launch of new interactive responsive websites, inaugural arrival of the Cruise Liner Industry, release of the Rural Heartland Sandstone Project Short term objectives and progress with the Child and Family Centre. The Company’s short term objectives are to: • Lead and actively drive tourism development through the various strategies including the implementation of the Gladstone Again, special thanks must go to our many wonderful volunteers in our regional network of Information Centres and those Region and Banana Shire Destination Tourism Plan. associated with our Child and Family Centres and our staff who give of their time, service and commitment to help make a • Increase awareness of Southern Great Barrier Reef in partnership with other Central Queensland based Regional Tourism difference. I am very proud of our small but vigorous team of personnel. The biggest reward I have is watching people grow Organisations and State Government. and develop and seeing what they give to help others. I thank our members and community for their continued and valued • Engage in activities that support the development of the domestic cruise liner industry for the Gladstone Region including support to GAPDL and our team of personnel. the establishment of a local Cruise Liner Focus Group. • Influence and support the development of a new Economic Development Strategy for the Gladstone Region. As we analyse 2014, focused on 2015, GAPDL must plan and instigate priorities for the future year and beyond. GAPDL looks • Continue to support SME development and investment in the Gladstone Region. forward to our corporate partners and members being a key part of this future. • Increase families and community understanding of the commitment to learing in the early years through enabling services that foster and build connections between adult services and children’s services. Kind Regards Long term objectives The Company’s long term objectives are to: • Promote the Gladstone Region as the “Region of Choice” for environmentally responsible business and industry. • Market and deveop the Gladstone Region as a preferred tourism, investment and lifestyle destination. • Foster community acceptance of responsible industry and development. • Encourage and foster new sustainable business and industry investment for the Gladstone Region. Glenn Churchill FAIM, MAICD, MBWA. • Identify and facilitate strategies that will grow existing regional business. Chief Executive Officer • Facilitate programs that enhance the wellbeing and lifestyle of the Gladstone Region.

Strategy for achieving the objectives To achieve these objectives, the Company has adopted the following strategies: • Promote and markets the Gladstone Region and Banana Shire, utilising a wide range of marketing strategies implemented through effective use of print, broadcast and social media channels. • Develop and distributes a range of marketing collateral. • Operate accredited Visitor Information Centres including a mobile information service across the Gladstone Region. • Support where appropriate, investment, growth and attraction opportunities in regional and economic development including playing host to State, National and International Trade and Investment Delegations. • Through Communities for Children, provides prevention and early intervention programs to families with children up to 12 years. • Develop and maintian effective partnerships with Gladstone Region business, industry, rural, tourism and community government stakeholders.

10 11 FINANCIAL REPORT 2014 FINANCIAL REPORT 2014

How principal activities assisted in achieving the objectives Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd The principal activities assisted the Company in achieving its objectives by: ABN: 67 010 613 831 • Demonstrating strategic direction in the company’s corporate objective to proactively advance the Gladstone Region through the promotion and development of business, industry and tourism for the benefit of members and the community. Auditors Independence Declaration under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 to Performance measures The following measures are used within the Company to monitor performance: the Directors of Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd • Monthly reporting against agreed KPIs with key funding partners. I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, during the year ended 31 December 2014, there have been: • Quarterly service level partnership reviews with key stakeholders. • Monthly reporting to the Company Board of Directors (encompassing of finance and operational activities). (i) no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; • 6 monthly review of performance against the company’s strategic and business plan. and • Annual staff performance reviews. • Review of company’s membership growth. (ii) no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit. Members guarantee Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd is a company limited by guarantee. In the event of, and for the purpose of winding up of the company, the amount capable of being called up from each members and any person or association who ceased to be a member in the year prior to the winding up, is limited to $ 2 for members that are corporations and $ 2 for all other members, subject to the provisions of the company’s constitution.

Auditor’s independence declaration The lead auditor’s independence declaration in accordance with section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001, for the year ended 31 December 2014 has been received and can be found on page 5 of the financial report. Bernard Whebell CA Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors:

Ulton Chartered Accountants

8 July 2015

Unit 2, 165 Auckland Street, GLADSTONE

12 13 FINANCIAL REPORT 2014 FINANCIAL REPORT 2014

Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income For the Year Ended 31 December 2014 Statement of Changes in Equity The following information is an extract from the financial statements For the Year Ended 31 December 2014 2014 2013 $ $ General Funds Revenue 2,261,026 1,843,572 Other income - 30,705 $ Cost of sales (53,136) (75,389) Balance at 1 January 2014 (98,495) Employee benefits expense (1,014,585) (924,195) Profit attributable to members of the entity 16,043 Depreciation and amortisation expense (19,593) (17,367) Balance at 31 December 2014 (82,452) Loss on disposal of assets (2,031) - Balance at 1 January 2013 156,500 Other expenses (1,155,638) (1,112,283) Profit attributable to members of the entity (254,995) Finance costs - (38) Balance at 31 December 2013 (98,495) Profit before income tax 16,043 (254,995) Income tax expense - - Profit from continuing operations 16,043 (254,995) Profit for the year 16,043 (254,995) Statement of Cash Flows Other comprehensive income, net of income tax For the Year Ended 31 December 2014 Other comprehensive income - - Total comprehensive income for the year 16,043 (254,995) 2014 2013 $ $ Statement of Financial Position CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: 31 December 2014 Receipts from customers 2,353,119 2,418,374 2014 2013 Payments to suppliers and employees (2,189,962) (2,250,925) $ $ ASSETS Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities 163,157 167,449 CURRENT ASSETS CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Cash and cash equivalents 503,593 355,630 Purchase of property, plant and equipment (15,194) (41,263) Trade and other receivables 23,568 8,060 Inventories 20,126 18,535 Net cash used by investing activities (15,194) (41,263) Other assets 11,599 45,705 CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 558,886 427,930 NON-CURRENT ASSETS Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents held 147,963 126,186 Property, plant and equipment 60,070 66,501 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 355,630 229,444 TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 60,070 66,501 Cash and cash equivalents at end of financial year 503,593 355,630 TOTAL ASSETS 618,956 494,431 LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES Trade and other payables 136,745 128,590 Current tax liabilities 39,723 52,668 Employee benefits 47,339 41,668 Other financial liabilities 477,601 370,000 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 701,408 592,926 TOTAL LIABILITIES 701,408 592,926 NET ASSETS (82,452) (98,495) EQUITY Retained earnings (82,452) (98,495) TOTAL EQUITY (82,452) (98,495)

14 15 INVESTMENT & REGIONAL TOURISM & EVENTS DEVELOPMENT INSIGHT

In 2014 GAPDL, as the Secretariat to the Gladstone Region a number of strategic projects identified as catalysts to drive Along with Business, Industry and Family Support services, GAPDL were successful in securing $145,000 for the Economic Partnership (GREP) reviewed the Gladstone economic and regional development in 2014 as listed in the Tourism is a major part of GAPDL’s business and GAPDL is Gladstone Region Marketing Campaign under the Tourism Region Economic Development Strategy (GREDS) to key achievements of this annual report. proud of our role as the recognised and authorised Regional and Events Queensland 2014/15 RTO Contestable Funding determine the strategy’s ongoing relevance for driving Tourism Organisation (RTO) for the Gladstone Region and Program. Marketing campaign budget $250,000 in economic development initiatives across the Gladstone In 2015, GAPDL will continue to support and work in Banana Shire. partnership with Gladstone Regional Council. This campaign Region. This review also included an evaluation of the partnership with the Gladstone Regional Council and ISOAC was featured on TV, billboards, print media, local radio, future function of GREP in the delivery of strategic actions to shape and inform the strategic direction for regional Tourism is recognised as a significant contributor to online and Gladstone Cinemas, highlighting to locals and identified in the GREDS. and economic development. Whilst the new strategy is employment and the future economic prosperity of visitors that there’s a lot to discover and enjoy in the being developed, GAPDL will focus on the following catalyst Queensland emphasising the need for a whole-of- Gladstone Region. The campaign focused on the Gladstone The review was undertaken internally by the appointed projects to continue to find ways to advance and promote destination approach to marketing and destination Region Hero Experiences – Southern Great Barrier Reef, Investment and Regional Development Executive Officer and opportunities in investment and regional development for development in order to achieve and deliver upon the target Fishing, Regional Characters and Beach Culture. overseen by the Chief Executive. Key findings of the review the Gladstone Region. of increasing annual overnight visitor expenditure across identified GREDS to no longer reflect the economic and Queensland to $30 billion by 2020. GAPDL in partnership with Tourism Events Queensland, regional priorities for the local economy due to the influence Ongoing advocacy for: Capricorn Enterprise and North Burnett Tourism and impact of rapid industrial growth through coal seam and • Development and provision of trunk infrastructure to Each of Queensland’s 13 RTOs (Regional Tourism joined forces to formalise our region’s tourism potential liquefied natural gas and mineral commodity export projects unlock the economic opportunities with the Gladstone Organisations) have led the development of a Destination and international tourism opportunities under the banner significant to the world economy. These findings were State Development Area and the extension of the Port Tourism Plan which will be delivered in partnership with of ‘Southern Great Barrier Reef’- ‘Where Great Begins’. This presented to GREP and endorsed. GREP representatives Access Road. Local Government; Department of Tourism, Events & Small allows GAPDL to promote and market Gladstone Region and agreed that developing a broader and diverse economic base • Development of essential social infrastructure facilities Business, relevant State government departments (i.e. Main Banana Shire Tourism businesses, operators and experiences will be the primary challenge for economic development in including a Child and Family Centre for the Gladstone Roads, National Parks etc.), Qld Tourism Industry Council, to a wider audience than ever before, attending the annual the Gladstone region and be the focus of any new strategy. Region. Tourism and Events Queensland, and industry associations Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) that attracts over 2000 • Development of the CQ Motorsports Driver Education (i.e. community, conservation, indigenous groups, event delegates. The function of GREP as the coordination point for GREDS and Training facilities. organisers etc.) to set the direction for the future had already been scrutinized in December 2013 with all • Development approval of the Hummock Hill Island – development and marketing of tourism and events in GAPDL welcomed the news that Gladstone will be included in stakeholders not opposed to disband the group. Key factors Pacificus Project. each destination. Carnival Australia itineraries from 2016. The inaugural arrival identified in the review validated the resolution to disband • Work with Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) in of the first P&O Cruise liner will be on Sunday 20th March and was made effective in early March 2014 on confirmation advancing the development of the Gladstone Region The 2020 Destination Vision for the Gladstone Region and 2016. The cruise tour itinerary was officially launched into from the Gladstone Regional Council noting acceptance of Industry Interpretive Centre (GRIIC) as part of Stage 2 Banana Shire is to develop its leisure and business market by Carnival Australia key officials at a major event in GAPDL’s review recommendations. development of the East Shores Precinct. experiences to their full potential to enhance the liveability 2014 hosted by GAPDL, as “The Southern Great Barrier Reef” • Work with the Destination Tourism Development Group and tourism appeal of the destination. Discovery cruise. In May 2014, Gladstone Regional Council formalised the to progress destination priorities detailed in the Innovation, Sustainability and Opportunity Advisory Gladstone Region and Banana Shire Destination Tourism An action from the Destination Tourism Plan was to form a This announcement by P&O Cruises continues to Committee (ISOAC) to encourage development and Plan (DTP). Destination Tourism Development Group (DTDG). The strengthen the already strong working partnership outcomes attraction of initiatives that could generate sustainable • Research opportunities to establish/develop adventure primary purpose of the group is to act as the key with Tourism and Events Queensland, Gladstone Regional economic and regional value for Council and/or the products relating to mountain bike activities and events. co-ordination point for the region’s tourism industry – Council and the Gladstone Ports Corporation and other key Gladstone regional community. GAPDL was appointed to • Develop a distinct and responsive GAPDL website that owning delivery and monitoring of the destination tourism stakeholders to deliver on Destination Tourism Plans. this committee as an ex-officio non-voting member and is promotes and markets the economic and regional plan and guiding communication with industry partners. represented by the Investment and Regional Development development advantages and opportunities available in GAPDL also attended Caravan and Camping shows in Sydney, Executive Officer. GAPDL attends fortnightly meetings and is the Gladstone Region. The Destination Tourism Development Group had their first Melbourne and and the Qld Tinnie and Tackle Show currently working with the committee in the development • Review and deliver a revitalised Gladstone Region Major meeting in October 2014 and meet every month to progress which was a great opportunity to showcase our destination of a new Economic Development Strategy for the region. Project Status Report publication. the Destination Priorities or Catalyst Projects from the to the Australian travelling and motoring public. • Respond and provide qualified economic and Destination Tourism Plan. An important function of this In light of the shifting economic landscape and a wider demographic data using REMPLAN. group is to seek tangible methods to increase economic GAPDL launched Queensland’s first mobile Information examination of priorities outlined in other strategic • Research effective forms of civic pride strategies for benefits through tourism promotion and development across Service - IVAN. This initiative, proudly funded by the QGC documents developed for the Gladstone region, GAPDL led possible implementation across the Gladstone Region. the Gladstone Region and Banana Shire. Sustainable Communities Fund, will enable our wonderful team to be on hand with information and advice at local and regional community events.

16 COMMUNITIES FOR SMALL BUSINESS CHILDREN ADVISORY SERVICE

Along with Tourism, Business and Industry, Family Support Services are an important part of GAPDL’s business. Communities for Children are a Sub-Activity under the Families and Children Activity of the Families and Communities Programme that aim to deliver positive and sustainable outcomes for children and families in communities throughout Australia.

In 2014, GAPDL C4C transitioned from providing direct service delivery activities to a facilitating partner (FP) model under changes to the federally funded program. FPs are place based to develop and facilitate a whole of • School transition and engagement - support children During 2014 GAPDL Small Business Advisory Services provided workshops, one on one mentoring and networking community approach to support and enhance early and families to make a smooth transition to school and opportunities in the Gladstone Region to 238 unique businesses. childhood development and wellbeing for children from work with local schools to assist children and families birth to 12 years. GAPDL C4C builds on local strengths to with their ongoing engagement with school. meet local community needs and create capability within • To create strong child-friendly communities that • Business services appointments provided support and referrals to SMEs on business planning, mentoring and general local service systems, using strong evidence of what works understand the importance of children and apply this business advice to ensure SMEs and small business intenders have the support they need to meet the challenges of an in early intervention and prevention. We collaborate with capacity to maximise the health, well-being and early increasingly competitive business environment. other organisations to provide a holistic service system for development of young children at the local level. • Workshop content was developed directly in response to requests from SMEs with several ‘Build Your Own Website’ children and families in the Gladstone Region. workshops which included digital strategies resulting in the participating SMEs successfully building their own GAPDL C4C proudly coordinates the 4680 Child and Family professional-looking simple websites which they can manage and update at any time. As part of this role, GAPDL C4C funds other organisations Centre in Gladstone. In late 2014 GAPDL relocated the (known as Community Partners) to provide services Centre into larger premises on Toolooa Street. There are • GAPDL Small Business Advisory Services held a workshop and business networking luncheon in conjunction with the including parenting support, group peer support, case now 5 Community Partners working from this Centre and 2014 Small Business Week to encourage investment, innovation and entrepreneurship. The event also highlighted to management, home visiting services and other supports to based there permanently. They deliver a range of integrated SMEs the strong support provided by AusIndustry through the SBAS – QNDA Program and other government programs promote child wellbeing. child and family support services that includes combinations available such as www.digitalbusiness.gov.au. A panel of local business owners representing different business sectors of parenting education programs, links to or delivery of early addressed guests regarding the challenges and successes they are currently experiencing. The objectives of Communities for Children FP are: childhood education and care services, family support, child • Gladstone Region Business Advisory Services aim to mitigate flow on effects of natural disasters endured by some small • To improve the health and well-being of families and health services, supported playgroups and information and the development of young children, from before birth referral services. business in our region and ensure as many small businesses in the Gladstone Region are as prepared as possible for through to age 12 years. any future natural disasters by providing the means to build capacity and assist in facilitating streamlined business • Healthy young families — supporting parents to care for We are now working with other Community groups in the operations, thereby strengthening their economic sustainability. their children before and after birth and throughout the Region to pursue funding opportunities that will allow the early years. Child and Family Centre to grow so further programs and • Supporting families and parents — support for parents services can be delivered. to provide children with secure attachment, consistent discipline and quality environments that are stable, GAPDL C4C staff and the C4C volunteer committee worked positive, stimulating, safe and secure. hard through 2014 to develop the 5 year strategic plan and • Early learning — provide access to high quality early Activity Workplan. These two documents have set the learning opportunities in the years before school. strategic priorities that C4C will work towards to 2019 and • Provide early identification and support for children at identifies the key needs and service gaps in the Gladstone risk of developmental and behavioural problems. Region for families and children aged 0 to 12 years. • Assist parents with ways they can stimulate and promote child development and learning from birth.

18 19 VOLUNTEER AMBASSADORS WHAT GAPDL DOES FOR THE REGION

Investment & Regional Development • Industry tour bookings including: • Curtis Ferry Coffee Cruise • Economic and Regional Development Visitor Information Centre’s (VICs) play an important role in Queensland’s Tourism Industry. They make a significant economic • Accommodation, tour bookings and camping permits • Investment, Growth and Attraction and social contribution particularly in regional areas, by providing the right information to encourage visitors to stay longer, including: • Advise and participate in planning initiatives experience more attractions, and attend local events. Equally as important is the invaluable contribution of local residents • Heron Island • Work with partners to host State, National and volunteering their time to be an Ambassador for the region and helping to run the Gladstone Region’s four Visitor Information • Lady Musgrave International Trade and Investment delegations. Centres in Gladstone, Miriam Vale, Agnes Water and Queensland’s only Mobile Information Service - IVAN. • LARC Tours • Produce the Gladstone Region Major Projects Status • Curtis and Facing Island permits In 2014, nearly 43,000 people visited our Gladstone Region’s VICs. Many are domestic travelers from other Queensland regions Report and/or interstate on holidays, business travel or visiting friends and family. The Gladstone Region also attracts international • Provide general economic and demographic data and Business Facilitation information. holiday makers drawn for many reasons including access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef in search for that island holiday • Business, financial management, marketing mentoring experience. To ensure that our Ambassadors can give the best and personalise advice on what our region truly has to offer, Tourism, Promotion and Liveability • Business continuity and business planning advice over the course of 2014, GAPDL organised numerous familiarization (famils) tours for Ambassadors to directly experience • Workshops various tourism products and services that visitors often seek advice on. Some of these famils include but are not limited to; GAPDL promotes and markets the Gladstone Region • Business development and support Heron Island, Bustard Heads Light house / Larc, Lady Musgrave Island, Lake Awoonga, Kroombit Tops, and a host of wonderful and Banana Shire through a wide range of marketing • Business-Industry-Tourism E-News accommodation services and hospitality businesses in Gladstone, Tannum Sands, Boyne Island, Discovery Coast, Boyne Valley, strategies including: Banana Shire, Agnes Water and 1770. • Digital & Social Media Events, Luncheons & Networking • Billboard advertising • Business Enterprise Luncheons GAPDL, with the tireless effort and time given by our region’s volunteer Ambassadors attended a number of tourism trade • Marketing/ Promotion Master Plan • AGM Corporate Luncheon shows to promote and market the destination’s attractions. These include Caravan & Camping shows in Melbourne, Sydney • Discounted Yaralla Lifestyle Program and Qantas Club • Member and Mates Golf Day and Brisbane, the 2014 Qld Tinnie & Tackle show, as well as local community events such as Boyne Tannum Hook Up, Observer Offer for Members • Member to Member Networking Home and Leisure Expo, EcoFest, Multicultural Festival, Captain Cook 1770 Festival, Banana Shire Industry Summit and more. In • Regional representation at: • After 5 Business Networking partnership with Gladstone Festivals and Events, GAPDL successfully delivered the Gladstone Seafood Festival. • All National Camping and Caravan Shows • Annual Best in Business Awards • Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane Adventure Travel GAPDL also supports and attends a number of different GAPDL will continue to operate the four accredited Visitor Information Centres, identifiable by the yellow I, with friendly and Expos community events throughout the Region including: efficient service and professionalism. As a member of the Queensland Information Centres Association (Visit Queensland) we • Queensland Tinnie and Tackle Show • Eco Fest are committed to maintaining these standards in line with our accreditation requirements. • Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) International • Multicultural Day • Numerous domestic and international media famils • Banana Shire Industry Summit • Multi Media Advertising GLADSTONE REGION VOLUNTEER AMBASSADORS • Boyne Tannum Hook Up • Welcome to Gladstone Bags • Observer Home and Leisure Show Liz Aitken Hazel De Boer Lynne Lewis Beth Sharpe • Regional Certifying Body for Gladstone Region and • Gladstone Harbour Festival Carolyn Armstrong Colleen Dillon Jillian Liefting Nyomi Silver Banana Shire • Captain Cook 1770 Festival Pauline Arvidson John Dobbyns Jenny Linwood Rhonda Steen GAPDL develops and distributes a range of marketing Dianne Barker Len Dowling Sally Lodder Ron Steen collateral utilised extensively for promotional Lynda Barrow Annette Felix John Massey Jay Stewart Communities for Children Program purposes. Some of these publications include: Val Black Leone Greaney Ross Maudsley Margaret Stolberg GAPDL Communities for Children (C4C) is a federally • Gladstone and Discovery Coast Visitor Guides Marcia Bonney Jennifer Haimi Isabella McAusland Kathy Strachan funded program to deliver positive and sustainable • Bass to Barra Jennifer Bourke Carolyn Hart Lyn McCann Kerry Webb outcomes for children and families in communities. • Fishing Guides Chris Boxall Georgia Hughes Patrice McFadzen Nerida White • Regional & Industry Maps The program aim is to develop and facilitate a whole Rayleen Braddick Marilyn Irwin Joan McLean Helen Whitmore • Kroombit Tops 4WD Touring Guides of community approach to support and enhance early Teresa Briggs Reni Isherwood Suzanne McLean Dawn Whittaker • Southern Great Barrier Reef Promotional Brochure childhood development and wellbeing for children from Jennifer Brooks Mark Jacobsen Christine Oliver Mary Whyte • GAPDL Marketing Partnership Prospectus birth to 12 years in Gladstone, Boyne Island and Tannum Gerry Brown Jenny Jameison Christie Pardoen Alexandra Wiechers • GAPDL distributes over 180,000 regional guides, maps Tom Brown Amanda Kavanagh Deb Pearce Maureen Williams Sands. and brochures each year Vilma Cabrera Alison Kelly Yvonne Peterken Gayle Young • GAPDL C4C also funds other human and social service • GAPDL Visitor Information Centres receive over Nida Channell Diane Kelly Lurleen Ramm Wayne Zollner organisations to provide: 100,000 visitors each year Pauline Dahl Pam Lawry John Roberts Deb Zollner/Pearce • Parenting Support • GAPDL website connects with over 200,000 visitors per • Supported Playgroups year • Early literacy programs • Case Management Information Services • Home visiting • 4 Accredited Visitor Information Centres operate 363 • Other supports to promote child wellbeing days a year. • Collaborate with Community Partners to meet local • Gladstone, Miriam Vale, Agnes Water and Rural community needs and create capacity within local service Hinterland systems • Operate ‘Mobile I’ - Queensland’s first accredited, fully • Ongoing development of the Child and Family Centre. Mobile Information Service • Relocation Tours

20 21 RY LLE E GA IMAG 2014

22 23 CORPORATE PARTNERS

24 MESSAGE TO OUR MEMBERS

GAPDL would like to sincerely thank all members for their ongoing support and partnership throughout 2014 and we look forward to working with you and the community to further advance the Gladstone Region and Banana Shire in 2015.

GLADSTONE AREA PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT LIMITED

72 Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone Q 4680 PO Box 5186, Gladstone Q 4680 P 07 4972 4000 | F 07 4972 7541 | E [email protected] www.gladstoneregion.info ABN 67 010 613 831 gladstoneregion.info