SPRING/SUMMER 2020 | VOL 6.1

peelPROGRESSIVE | PROSPEROUS | DYNAMIC

RED Grants a catalyst for progress

Capable people Thriving Peel’s greatest asset industry supporting and expanding new industries in Peel Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Artist impression for Western Australian Food Innovation Precinct Sustainable. Future-proof. Perfectly positioned.

There’s good reason why only two lots remain of Stage 1 in Peel Business Park, Nambeelup. Boasting a premium position, these lots are fully serviced field for agribusiness, ancillary light, general transport and with gas, water, wastewater and high-speed internet. support industries. Powered by Australia’s first renewable energy industrial Stage 1 is already home to Western Australia’s Food microgrid, it’s expected to deliver savings of around 30% on Innovation Precinct delivered by Shire of Murray and the energy bills when compared to regulated bundled tariffs. Bushfire Centre of Excellence delivered by Department of Fire and Emergency Services. With a focus on agri-innovation and industry, and offering new innovations in equipment, infrastructure and It’s now time for your business to share in its processes, Peel Business Park continues to draw the best in growing success.

Register your interest today. Phil Melville (Agribusiness) 0488 203 088 Jarrad Grierson (Industrial) 0413 242 240 developmentwa.com.au/peel

Supported by the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program. Funded by the Australian Government under the Regional Growth Fund.

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Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

In this issue

Peel Development Commission Board MANDURAH ON THE MOVE 4 Ms Paddi Creevey OAM Chair Cr Michelle Rich TRANSFORM PEEL 6 Mr Alan Cransberg Deputy Chair Mrs Michelle Sidebottom PEEL RED GRANTS — CREATING MORE JOBS 10 Mayor Rhys Williams Mr David Doepel WA FOOD INNOVATION PRECINCT 16 Peel Development Commission Staff INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP 18 Andrew Ward Adrian Parker ASSISTING PEEL ABORIGINAL BUSINESSES 24 Chief Executive Officer Director, Regional Development E [email protected] E [email protected] CAPABLE PEOPLE —­ PEEL’S GREATEST ASSET 25 Kathleen Butler Nicole Pegg FUTURE OF WORK 26 Customer Service Officer Senior Administration Assistant Artist impression for Western Australian Food Innovation Precinct WA TRADE COMMISSIONERS VISIT 27 E [email protected] E [email protected] Simone Hutton Ben Robins REGION IN FOCUS — CITY OF MANDURAH 28 Grants and Projects Officer Regional Development Officer DELIVERING SKILLS IN PEEL FOR WA'S RECOVERY 32 E [email protected] E [email protected] PEEL BRIGHT MINDS 34 Therese Ejsak Larissa Stacy Sustainable. Future-proof. Local Content Advisor Regional Development Officer POWERING THE METS SECTOR 36 E [email protected] E [email protected] HELPING OLDER ADULTS CONNECT 41 Andrea Kelly Kristie Tonkin Corporate Communications Principal Regional Development Perfectly positioned. AGING IN PLACE HUB PLANNED FOR BYFORD 42 Co-ordinator Officer E [email protected] E [email protected] Wendy Muir Kylie Wilson There’s good reason why only two lots remain of Stage 1 in Peel Business Park, Nambeelup. Principal Regional Development Executive Officer to CEO & Chair Boasting a premium position, these lots are fully serviced field for agribusiness, ancillary light, general transport and Officer E [email protected] E [email protected] with gas, water, wastewater and high-speed internet. support industries. Powered by Australia’s first renewable energy industrial Stage 1 is already home to Western Australia’s Food Peel Development Commission Publisher microgrid, it’s expected to deliver savings of around 30% on Innovation Precinct delivered by Shire of Murray and the 45 Mandurah Terrace (PO Box 543) energy bills when compared to regulated bundled tariffs. Bushfire Centre of Excellence delivered by Department Mandurah Western Australia 6210 Peel Development Commission of Fire and Emergency Services. Phone: (08) 9535 4140 With a focus on agri-innovation and industry, and offering Fax: (08) 9535 2119 Editor new innovations in equipment, infrastructure and It’s now time for your business to share in its Email: [email protected] Andrea Kelly Cover: Samudera Mandurah. processes, Peel Business Park continues to draw the best in growing success. Image: Visit Mandurah & Russell www.peel.wa.gov.au Corporate Communications Officer Ord Photography www.facebook.com/ Graphic Designer peeldevelopmentcommission Josephine Eynaud Redtail Graphic Design www.linkedin.com/company/peel- development-commission Register your interest today. Advertising Like to advertise in the next edition of Peel Magazine? Phil Melville (Agribusiness) 0488 203 088 Disclaimer Please contact Andrea Kelly for further information The Western Australian Government is committed to quality services to E [email protected] Jarrad Grierson (Industrial) 0413 242 240 its customers and makes every attempt to ensure accuracy, currency and reliability of the data contained in these documents. However, changes developmentwa.com.au/peel in circumstances after the time of publication may affect the quality of Peel Development Commission is a statutory authority this information. Confirmation of the information may be sought from established in 1993 by the Western Australian State Government originating bodies or departments providing the information. under the Regional Development Commissions Act 1993. The Commission is one of nine regional development commissions across the State, each established and operating under the Supported by the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program. Funded by the Australian Government under the Regional Growth Fund. same legislation.

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WELCOME Chair’s Welcome

2020 is certainly a year to region. The pandemic had a huge natural environment and a sense of and continuing impact on many of community, connection and place. go down in history and the region’s businesses and definitely The Round 3 RED Grant recipients for live on in the memories reinforced the importance of building Peel highlight projects that help to and stories we share of regional resilience. create and sustain thriving industry in By reassessing the way we work, our region and it’s exciting to see how our own experiences the way we do business and the these projects will develop over time. during this unique time. way we collaborate, we’ve been The support offered by our local able to develop a deeper and more government authorities is fantastic This was certainly not a ‘business immediate understanding of what will and some of City of Mandurah’s local as usual’ year and while it has build our region up and contribute to business support is featured in this undoubtedly been a stressful and future prosperity. edition as the region in focus. overwhelming time for many, I’ve also been amazed by the way our Support for our local businesses is Of course, without capable people communities demonstrate their paramount to the resilience of our we would not have the strong region — thriving industry, jobs ability to cope and their willingness and resilient communities that to reach out to others to contribute for the people of the Peel region, to the important recovery of our as well as the preservation of our underpin our thriving industries. The industry projects, tourism developments, workforce confidence and readiness initiatives and support, as well as health, well-being and social initiatives included in this magazine, all contribute to a strong a resilient future for the Peel. The skills and education of our local workforce plays a key role in the resilience of our local economy, so the free and reduced fee courses on offer through South Metro TAFE is a practical and very accessible benefit to the region. The Mandurah campus also incorporates the Peel Jobs and Skills Centre which provides free careers advice, as well as advice for apprenticeships, traineeships and other employment assistance. I commend the ongoing work of many in the community and local businesses for all they contribute to the fabric of our region, especially those that have been doing it tough over the past few months. I also commend the Commission Staff and Board members for their flexibility, adaptability, resilience and unwavering professionalism in bringing our concepts, visions and plans for the region to fruition. Paddi Creevey OAM Chair, Peel Development Commission

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MANAGEMENT REPORT

CEO’s Management Report

The Peel Development Commission’s prosperous future for the Peel. The vision for the WA Food Innovation partnership between Newmont Precinct continues to gather Boddington Gold and the Peel-Harvey momentum as an enabler for Catchment Council is one example entrepreneurs, food companies of these kinds of relationships. and agri-enterprises to research, Supporting the community in develop, and test new value-added achieving their aspirations locally food products derived from Western is also contributing to global Australian primary produce. Part of sustainability initiatives in clean water Transform Peel’s Peel Business Park, and sanitation. It’s often been said that the precinct plays a key role in the Alcoa Australia’s Vice President of project’s vision of transforming the regional Australia’s Operations, Michael Gollschewski, region; creating new industries, more acknowledges the role capable people greatest asset is its jobs and better food security, through play in maintaining a thriving industry innovation, research and collaboration. people and that’s and highlights their investment certainly the case in Peel. The Precinct will support Western in community and environmental Australia in building a robust management as key avenues of Even in a year as unpredictable and vibrant food and beverage delivering benefits to our region. and uncertain as 2020, when the manufacturing sector and is well- importance of building a strong local aligned with the vision for developing This edition of the Peel Magazine economy came to the fore in no Peel’s industries and businesses to be celebrates the thriving industry uncertain terms, it was the people of diverse and globally competitive — a and capable people of our region the region who got on with the job, cornerstone of our vision for Peel as a — our business and industry showed resilience and engaged with progressive, prosperous and dynamic representatives, our community innovation to pull through. region with a culture of care. members, local government We know that if we’re going to create Supporting Peel’s diversity of industry authorities, not-for-profits, and jobs, ensure a bright future and in this way and leveraging the Peel regional support organisations. advance the prosperity of the region, Business Park’s access to global we have to diversify our local economy markets will significantly contribute Contribution and collaboration to and grow our local industries. to a stronger local economy that not these working relationships and That requires the commitment, only creates jobs and raises living partnerships allow us to harness and collaboration and time of all sectors of standards, but provides the depth leverage the experience, knowledge government, industry and community. and resilience required for long-term and influence necessary to develop, Facilitating and activating those prosperity. resource and implement our regional partnerships and opportunities is at vision to reality. the heart of the Peel Development Progressing our vision for Peel relies Commission’s role in the region and heavily on collaboration. Connecting Andrew Ward gives context for the region’s growth communities and industry in Chief Executive Officer projects and initiatives. working partnerships creates jobs Peel Development Commission and underpins initiatives that build a stronger, brighter and more

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THRIVING INDUSTRY

Mandurahon the move with new industry and business grants

WORDS & IMAGES | City of Mandurah The new Restart Mandurah Now “The Restart Mandurah — Industry and Business Incentive business grants program Scheme, funded through the Industry, private $5 million Restart Mandurah focuses our efforts on our investments and package, aims to entice businesses economic recovery which is and industry to mobilise and expand key in plans to Restart and businesses that can in Mandurah to help the city’s create more jobs struggling economy. Transform Mandurah for our future. and contribute to The City of Mandurah is committing Mandurah’s economic $1 million over two years to attract “We know that businesses play and boost private investment to a crucial and transformative role agenda are being deliver projects with economic in building thriving communities encouraged to apply benefits to the local community. The and local job prospects. We want City is specifically seeking initiatives to attract investment from various for funding through that support local job creation, sized businesses to help deliver our an exciting new grants industry diversification and business economic agenda for Mandurah sustainability. and the city centre, which is to build program now open. business sustainability, resilience and Mayor Rhys Williams said the new capacity to make our future the best scheme focused on one of the it can be. community’s biggest priorities — the economy, and was another way the “We already have exciting works City was helping to restart Mandurah underway with the Mandurah from the impacts of COVID-19. Waterfront project and the first stages of our Transform Mandurah “Our local economy has felt the vision, so this presents a unique full brunt of the fallout from the chance to proactively promote pandemic, and we know there are investment opportunities that build many businesses doing it tough at a better Mandurah and help us the moment,” Mayor Williams said. achieve our goals.”

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The Restart Mandurah Now — Industry and Business Incentive Scheme has three funding streams: 1. Ready Now Business Capability Fund A Business Capability Fund aimed at improving the number of local businesses that can participate as suppliers of goods, services and works to the City of Mandurah and the MANDURAH’S NEW market in general. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TASKFORCE Applications for grants up to $15,000 Alan Cransberg, Professor are now open. Lyn Beazley, Myrianthe Riddy, 2. Grow Now and Invest Now William (Bill) Hames and Mayor Rhys Williams. Investment Attraction Program Investment Attraction Programs aimed at increasing investment in and on the move with development of Mandurah’s economy to diversify and grow Mandurah’s economy employment through jobs, new industry and industries and enterprise. Applications for Grow Now grants up to $50,000 and EOIs for Invest Now are now open. Both streams’ objectives business grants and criteria are the same, however the Invest Now EOIs are for larger projects with a value of over $50,000. 3. Activate Now City Centre Business Incentive Program A City Centre Business Incentive Program aimed at Increasing business investment in City Centre and improving the quality and scale of unique offerings to increase foot traffic and add vibrancy to the City Centre during the day and night. Applications for grants up to $15,000 are now open. All grants require up to 50 per cent matched funding by the applicant, which demonstrates the business’ commitment to the project, event or activity. Applications for the 2020–21 financial year must be submitted by 31 March, 2021. The overall Restart Mandurah Now program is funded through the City’s Restart Mandurah Fund ($350,000pa for two years) and $150,000pa from already budgeted City Centre business-led partnership project funds.

MORE INFORMATION For more information go to: www.mandurah.wa.gov.au/business/ business-training-and-support/economic- grants

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THRIVING INDUSTRY Transform Peel achievements and milestones

plans that address the need for WORDS & IMAGES | Peel Development Historically, Peel’s population industry and job growth to sustain the Commission growth has been driven by lifestyle- growing population. based migration, rather than driven Transform Peel is a by employment, which is why The region’s long-term visionary 35-year visionary project approximately 28.6% of people living projects, Transform Peel and in the region travel to employment in Transform Mandurah will create more to create new industries, the Perth metropolitan area1. jobs by supporting the growth of new more jobs and improved industries like; Transform Peel represents ∙ Food manufacturing & intensive food security, through a significant opportunity food production innovation, research and to increase the region’s ∙ Research and development collaboration. employment self-sufficiency, ∙ Manufacturing To achieve this, the project aims to particularly through food and ∙ Knowledge economy industries capitalise on the Peel region’s unique agricultural innovation. and sectors Mining peri-urban location and proximity to As the population in Peel continues ∙ existing export infrastructure. The its rapid growth trajectory, we must Taking an integrated approach, Peel region is in a strong position establish and pursue long-term Transform Peel aims to build regional to take advantage of existing and resilience and promote economic emerging market opportunities 1 Department of Training and Workforce development encompassing and to becoming a regional hub for Development, 2015. Peel Workforce innovative water, energy and waste innovation in food and agriculture. Development Plan 2015–2018.

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TRANSFORM PEEL PROJECT CENTREPIECE Peel Business Park is designed with a focus on agri-innovation and industry.

that will help establish Peel as an food innovation and agriculture hub. The project combines a strategic location, a time zone shared by more than 60% of the world population, research and data to fast track investment analysis, the flexibility of tailored investment packages and the synergies of an innovative industrial ecosystem for the future. Moving into Phase 2 Transform Peel Phase 1 was identified by activation ventures. Heavily management solutions combining Peel’s Natural advantage characterised by research and three strategic initiatives; Peel Transform Peel leverages the region’s planning, many of the project’s key Business Park, including the WA Food advantages and opportunities activation milestones have now Innovation Precinct, the Peel Agri of proximity to transport been achieved and continue Food Study and the Peel Integrated routes of road, rail, air and to gather momentum as Water Initiative. ports and a shared time the project moves into the Peel consolidation, investment Peel Business Park, the zone with developing Asian markets. A rapidly shares a timezone attraction and new centrepiece of the Transform growing population, with more than initiatives of Phase 2. 60% of the world Peel project, is designed with access to onsite Peel Business Park, population. a focus on agri-innovation research, development the flagship project of and industry that includes and training facilities, DevelopmentWA’s Industrial and best practice food Lands Authority, is positioned the Shire of Murray’s Agri provenance represent the as WA’s home of agri-innovation Innovation Precinct. depth of this opportunity. and industry, features WA’s only Food Peel Agri Food Study, supports Transform Peel is located at Innovation Precinct designed and Peel’s suitability for innovative food Nambeelup in the Peel region of delivered by the Shire of Murray, and technology solutions in producing Western Australia, approximately the Renewable Energy Industrial high value product for domestic and 75km south of Perth. Microgrid, one of the first of its kind global markets. in Australia. This unique peri-urban location, Peel Integrated Water Initiative with its proximity to existing export MORE INFORMATION addresses future water demands and infrastructure, creates a distinct Peel Development Commission: environmentally responsible water advantage for capitalising on existing Phone (08) 9535 4140 or go to PDC website management solutions. and emerging market opportunities www.peel.wa.gov.au/transformpeel

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THRIVING INDUSTRY

Developing thriving industry in the Peel

WORDS | Peel Development Commission The long-term solution to Peel’s If the Peel is to remain economically IMAGES | Visit Mandurah & Russell Ord economic challenges are not quick competitive and maintain Photography fixes and require a long-term focus on employment self-sufficiency targets, it moving the region’s economy from needs to diversify its economy. The prosperity and a population-driven, service-delivery This can be achieved through a nature towards a more export, focus on: liveability of our state is strategic, innovation and trade- ∙ protecting our existing capital driven economy. greatly impacted by the base and associated businesses prosperity and liveability To support this evolution, we need and industries; of our nine regions. to develop economic resilience ∙ expanding industry sectors that in Peel; we need to diversify our are of strategic importance to the When the regions do local economy and grow our local State; and industries. We must protect our ∙ building new industry sectors. well, it means a more natural environment and we need to liveable state for all support our local communities. Protecting our existing West Australians. With the population of the Peel capital base expected to grow to 444,000 by The Peel’s current capital base has The Peel region’s economy is enabled a substantial economy with 2050, there will be a requirement population-based and service- a diverse range of businesses and driven, and heavily characterised for 78,352 new jobs to maintain industry. They are the foundation by tourism, hospitality, retail and an employment self-sufficiency of the region’s economy and play a small construction employment target of 78.5%1. critical role in creating employment. opportunities. There are also a high This capital base includes: percentage of sole traders, small Sources of future job creation are ∙ mining; family and micro businesses, as well projected to occur through population as a relatively high portion of low driven employment in industries such ∙ health care and aged care services; paying jobs. as healthcare and social assistance, ∙ metals and manufacturing; education, training and retail trade. ∙ building and construction; Our population growth in the Peel, Strategic employment growth is although providing some growth expected to occur in export industries ∙ retail, accommodation, food for our local economy and service such as mining, food and producer services and tourism; and industries, has historically exceeded services industries such as research, ∙ agriculture, forestry and fishing the job growth required to support universities and professional services. industry sectors. it. Therefore, a large portion of the region’s residents travel outside of the region to their place of employment. 1 Perth and [email protected]

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Investment into maintaining this Strategy for Tourism in Western to the successful Pinjarra Racing capital base is required, as are Australia 20202: Club, Pinjarra Harness Racing Club, strategies aimed at supporting ∙ a vast and diverse natural resource Boddington Riding Club, Murray the competitiveness of existing base which requires careful Equestrian Association and the Murray businesses and industry. management and protection, Districts Carriage Driving Club. but which holds significant new Building new industry sectors Expanding industry sectors opportunity in adventure tourism; The Peel has identified three strategic In order to attract new enterprise, ∙ proximity to the Perth create a highly skilled and adaptable industry sectors where a State metropolitan region and linkages workforce and build regional resilience imperative has been established to the South West region present we must enhance the region’s capital and where the region has a potential broader opportunities for tourism base through investment in our comparative advantage. It is sustainability, connectivity natural, social, produced, financial strategically important that these and development; are supported. and human capital. This is essential ∙ proximity to overseas tourists if the region is to create comparative One significant area of opportunity through port and airport advantage and attract new enterprises is intensive food production, with facilities; and into the Peel. Australian produce being recognised ∙ an existing road infrastructure A significant opportunity lies in in the market place both nationally network that facilitates developing a regionally-based research and internationally for its safety and connectivity between industry. Building a regionally-based high quality produce. Few of Western natural adventures.

Supporting new industry will create competitive advantage and attract new enterprises.

Australia’s regions are as well-placed Thirdly, the opportunity exists for “knowledge economy” is recognised as as the Peel to develop in this area. the establishment of the Peel as being critical to the future economic a premier equine region given success of the Peel — enabling This comparative advantage, its close proximity to the Perth the development of commercial coupled with the opportunity to metropolitan region. intellectual property, strategic jobs and actively intervene in addressing the increased capacity of our people into A recent Racing and Wagering region’s environmental and social the future. challenges, makes the establishment Western Australia Metropolitan 3 of the WA Food Innovation Precinct, Equine Asset Review suggests The Peel Development Commission part of the Peel Business Park and that the Peel represents the works with partners and stakeholders the first of its kind in WA, focusing most viable location for the long- across industry, community and term development of the racing environment to make sure we achieve on innovative food production, equine industry. long term benefits for our region. a compelling opportunity for We want to ensure Peel is a great sustained investment. The Peel has an enduring rich and place to live and work now and for successful history with the equine A second opportunity exists to future generations — a region that’s industry. It is presently home enhance the role that tourism progressive, prosperous and dynamic plays in the regional economy. The with a culture of care. following aspects give the Peel a 2 State Government Strategy for Tourism in Western Australia 2020, page 3 clear comparative advantage and the MORE INFORMATION 3 Racing and Wagering Western Australia; potential for the region to contribute Metropolitan Equine Asset Review Taskforce Peel Development Commission: to the goals of the State Government high Level Options Paper, August 2015 (08) 9535 4140 or www.peel.wa.gov.au

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THRIVING INDUSTRY Peel RED grants helping to create more jobs

WORDS | Peel Development Commission $33.8 million directed to RED grants The objectives of the RED Grants IMAGES | Veronika Sajova Photography over six years (2018–19 to 2023–24) Program include: and supplied by recipients for projects that will directly benefit ∙ Sustainable jobs regional communities. ∙ Expanding or diversifying industry; The Regional Economic The program is part of the State ∙ Developing skills or capabilities; Development Grants Government’s $4 billion job- ∙ Attracting new investment in the (RED Grants) program is creating Royalties for Regions region; investment across regional WA. ∙ Maximising recovery from the a $28.8 million (over five COVID-19 pandemic impacts. Delivered locally by the State’s years) State Government nine Regional Development Round three of the RED Grants initiative that invests Commissions, RED Grants support program was announced in the Peel individual projects that contribute to region on 6 November 2020 with in community driven sustainable jobs, expand or diversify eleven projects supported to share in projects to stimulate industry, develop skills and capability, $1,033,000 for business development, attract new investment or maximise increased manufacturing capability and economic growth and recovery from COVID-19 impacts to to expand local tourism in the region. the region. development in regional The reshaping of these businesses Western Australia. The grants boost investment in local will provide local job and training regional projects that contribute to opportunities across a number of An additional $5 million has now population and economic growth areas including distillery operations been committed by the State initiatives, local marketing and and practices, mixology, food and Government to extend the initiative innovation pilots, and importantly, are beverage service and venue and for another year — with a total of driven by the community. event management.

Eleven Peel projects will share in $1,033,000 funding.

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Jarrahfall Bushcamp Community Recycling WA $170,000 $120,000 The Fredricks Corporation Pty Ltd will use a $170,000 Community Recycling WA is receiving $120,000 to grant towards the upgrade of the Jarrahfall Bushcamp establish a mobile recycling deposit scheme for accommodation, dining and activity facilities to increase Boddington, Waroona, Pinjarra and Serpentine- capacity to host more school groups, events and Jarrahdale and build permanent depot points at Pinjarra training days. The upgrade will create new local jobs to and Serpentine-Jarrahdale. The project is set to create deliver the services, increase visitor capacity and enable 20 new jobs by the end of 2020 to deliver the program the diversification of target markets to drive tourism and returns profits to the community through social visitation to the Dwellingup area. enterprise development.

Drakesbrook Wines Prime Meat Co Pty Ltd $150,000 $120,000 Peel Parrot Sanctuary tourist development includes Prime Meat Co Pty Ltd will upgrade the hot water system the construction of an aviary complex and auxiliary as part of the recommissioning of the Waroona abattoir. buildings expanding the tourist offering at Drakesbrook Once the abattoir commence operations it will create Fine Wine’s winery and cellar door. Once launched, this up to 330-350 new jobs at full operating capacity and attraction will focus on raising awareness and provide provide economic benefit for the region in a priority education on threats faced by native birds. This project industry sector. also provides strong economic benefit through an additional tourist attraction in the region.

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THRIVING INDUSTRY

Kanyana Engineering Pty Ltd Miami Bakehouse $100,000 $90,000 Kanyana Engineering will invest $100,000 to purchase The iconic Miami Bakehouse will expand its baking new high tech fabrication equipment to increase capacity through the introduction of supplementary production to service businesses otherwise seeking baking equipment and a mobile bakery capability. This overseas manufacturing services. This investment will will result in sustainable job growth in the region and the increase supply and production capability, enabling ability to access new markets, exporting food products competitiveness in mining and rail supply and create from the region. local jobs.

Little Stiller Jarrahdale Equestrian $80,000 $80,000 Little Stiller Mandurah’s $80,000 grant will provide The Jarrahdale Equestrian Arena Upgrade will include opportunity to develop a boutique tavern with a the construction of an all-weather shed structure, stables, fully operational gin distillery within Mandurah and viewing platform enabling the arena to be used in all central, creating local jobs as well as a tourism and weather conditions and in the evening. This will enable hospitality attraction. the business to increase productivity and offer a high quality tourism product.

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Mandurah Cruises Sepentine Jarrahdale Food and Farm Alliance $60,000 $30,000 The Mandjar Bay Beach Activity Activation will provide Serpentine Jarrahdale Food and Farm Alliance is a unique experience to visitors through the purchase supporting the establishment of the SJ Farmers’ Market of water bikes and a mobile mooring pontoon. It is part with the purchase of a mobile cool room trailer for use of Mandurah Cruises post COVID strategy to broaden at the market and to enable an online ordering function services offered beyond boat tours by providing a new, supported by the development of a website. This regular complementary tourism product. event will attract visitation to the area and enable local farmers and food producers to supply fresh produce to consumers.

Congratulations The Peel Development Commission congratulates the successful third round RED Grant recipients on securing funding for their projects.

These eleven projects will help to create and sustain thriving industry in the Peel region through business development, increased manufacturing capability and to expand local tourism in the region. We look forward to seeing how these projects progress over time.

Groundswell Drive Thru $33,000 Groundswell Drive Thru is establishing a bean to bar chocolate industry in Mandurah through the purchase of equipment required to wood fire roast fermented chocolate beans into nibs for supply to local chocolate makers. This project supports the region’s goals for growth in both the food production and tourism sectors.

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THRIVING INDUSTRY RED Grants the catalyst for progress in Peel

WORDS | Peel Development Commission The Peel Development Commission upgrades at the Jarrah Forrest IMAGES | Supplied has welcomed the most recent RED Lodge in Dwellingup, a manuka oil Grants recipient announcement plant breeding and trial project for and strongly encourages local ManukaLife, new tour vessels for The Regional Economic organisations to get involved Mandurah Boat & Bike Hire, Development and apply for future rounds relocation support for Grants (RED Grants) that will be opened Smartstream Technology between now and 2024. and a paint yard to enable program has seen over Round 2 business growth for Cays The 2018–19 Regional RED Grant funding Engineering. $2.2 million in funding Economic Development totalled $618,960 for for the Peel region over (RED) Grants, Round seven Peel projects Round two of RED one, for the Peel region Grants funding for the the past two years. were announced by Peel region, announced the Minister for Regional in December 2019, totalled RED Grants have supported Development, Hon. Alannah $618,960 for seven projects 23 projects driven by regional MacTiernan MLC on 5 April 2019. contributing to sustainable jobs, organisations that are creating real expanding or diversifying industry, economic impact and employment In this round, more than $755,000 developing skills and capability and opportunities in regional went towards six projects for the attracting new investment. Western Australia. Peel region including; a cold storage facility for Caprogreco Farms,

Round two recipients...

Shire of Murray $150,000 The Shire of Murray received $150,000 to complete a state-of-the-art technology fit-out of the Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre, making it a State and potentially nationally acclaimed iconic trails and tourism centre promoting Dwellingup and the greater Shire of Murray and Peel region. The centre is now complete and officially opened 10 September 2020.

Visit Mandurah $139,100 Visit Mandurah will use their $139,100 grant to create a digital tourism hub in the Mandurah tourism precinct, and develop a walking tour and visit Mandurah ambassador program to tell the stories of the people, places and produce across the region.

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Pinjarra Bakery $100,000 Pinjarra Bakery secured $100,000 to upgrade its distribution centre and equipment to improve efficiency and production capacity. This upgrade positioned the bakery to take advantage of increasing wholesale market opportunities and support its fourth store.

Southern Dirt Inc C-Wise $100,000 $65,000 Southern Dirt secured $65,000 to C-Wise were awarded provide networking activities and deliver $100,000 RED Grant three pilot projects through the Peel funding to build and trial Growers’ Hub. The projects explored specialised enclosures to opportunities within the premium receive, decontaminate, beef supply chain, the future food blend and process conference and a protected cropping organic waste from the pilot to support farmers to maintain and Peel region. build profitable farm businesses in the Peel region.

Grubs Up Australia $15,000 Grubs Up Australia will use their $15,000 RED Grant to take part in a 16-week international research and development study tour in collaboration with Nuffield Farming Scholars. Participation in the tour represents a chance for Grubs Up to increase capacity to commercialise insect farming within the Peel region, gain insights into best practice, build international relationships for future business partnerships, and create local employment and sustainable farming opportunities. Due to COVID-19 restrictions this project has been delayed and will commence once restrictions have lifted and flights resumed. International travel is a core component of this scholarship.

Cape Bouvard Brewing Company $49,860 Cape Bouvard Brewing Company used their $49,860 funding to upgrade the existing facility’s brewing equipment to increase production capacity and introduce aluminium bottles reducing the company’s environmental footprint as well as giving them a distinct market edge. The facility will also be available for common use by other beverage producers for aluminium bottling.

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THRIVING INDUSTRY Western Australian Food Innovation Precinct

WORDS & IMAGES | Shire of Murray

The future is brighter for the Peel region’s agtech, IT and food and beverage entrepreneurs, start-ups and existing business including producers, as final designs are prepared for the Shire of Murray’s Western Australian Food Innovation Precinct in Transform Peel’s Peel Business Park in Nambeelup.

About the precinct Stage one of the Precinct will see National Phenome Centre and the The Precinct is being developed in the development of three bespoke Future Food Systems Cooperative the Peel region to support Western facilities, with agreement to lease Research Centre. negotiations well underway with Australia in building a robust Production prospective tenants. and vibrant food and beverage Subject to negotiations with various manufacturing sector. Innovation parties including State Government, Specialised equipment and Intended for lease to Growhub, for intended for the housing of cutting- research and production capabilities sublease arrangements with SMEs, edge technology and equipment will ensure the Precinct offers start-ups and entrepreneurs for office to assist in the development of new a substantial variety of or coworking space. Growhub food products and testing food for technologies and processing would strengthen the new markets. methods, aimed at Precinct through access to international technologies Tender documents for the Precinct’s scientifically proving and markets. construction will be drawn up by nutrition, traceability Network, research, the end of 2020, with advertising and transportability, develop, protype and Research expected to commence in January market-test new WA and supporting the Intended for lease to 2021 followed by tender award in food products. development of high- Murdoch University March 2021. Following a 12-month value premium foods for research into food construction period, the buildings with extended shelf life. and nutrition. The lease are anticipated for occupation by The Precinct will create an would support their Bachelor early-2022. Local content and local enabling environment for Western of Food Science and Nutrition, jobs will be a key consideration launching in 2021 with some teaching for construction. Australian, Australian and global and training to be conducted at the entrepreneurs, food companies and Synergies have been optimised Precinct as well as Fairbridge Farm. agri-enterprises to cost effectively between the Precinct and the State network, research, develop, protype Murdoch University would also Government’s Bushfire Centre of and market-test new value-added bring strategic links to the Western Excellence. The Centre and Precinct food products derived from Western Australian State Agricultural will be situated next to one another Australian primary produce. Biotechnology Centre, the Australian with coordinated orientation of

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in all aspects of food total of $3.8 million in grants available production, including advanced over the coming years. The grants will manufacturing capabilities be available on a 50:50 basis, up to a ∙ Building local food chains that maximum of $200,000. connect our small and larger Building Local Product producers/farmers with strong RESEARCH local and export markets The advent of COVID-19 prompted Intended for collaboration amongst Murray’s local lease to Murdoch Economic modelling indicates that producers, who worked quickly to University. the Precinct could, in the first five establish the Murray-Waroona Food years of operation: Network, and resultantly, a local ∙ Create between 17 and 51 new food food chain. buildings and landscaping, joint and beverage enterprises The resilience of local producers parking areas and shared use of ∙ Create between 169 and 506 direct during this time and their willingness common facilities such as the cafe jobs and 323 and 977 indirect jobs to adapt how they do business, and meeting rooms in the Precinct. ∙ Grow WA’s food and beverage demonstrated Murray’s capability to Business plan sector output by between $110 build a strong food sector. million and $330 million A business plan to guide operation In order to strengthen this local of the Western Australian Food ∙ Inject between $245 million and food chain, plans are in motion to Innovation Precinct was endorsed $737 million in other economic link the Western Australian Food by Shire of Murray Councillors in sectors Innovation Precinct with initiatives already underway in Murray, including September 2020. Capacity building Edenvale Tea Rooms by Fairbridge The plan is a critical component An interim program for individuals, WA, proposed development of the that aligns focus of the Precinct entrepreneurs and small and Exchange Hotel, the Dwellingup with achieving the overall mission of major enterprise wishing to be National Trails Centre and Fairbridge scaling up Western Australian agri- part of the Precinct is underway, Farm, as well as our local producers. enterprises, deploying research and comprising a one-day Business development and fostering industry Owner Boot Camp, six-week Build Pinjarra is ideally positioned to innovation to drive growth and export. Your Business course and one-on-one benefit from the strategic activity mentorship opportunities. that will soon be realised through The Shire will manage the the Precinct, to celebrate the region’s activation, organisation, Successful participants will pioneer strong agricultural heritage, provide a engagement and sustainability the opportunities of the Precinct once window into our local food bowl and open. The Shire of Murray is working of the Precinct through the strengthen Pinjarra and the Shire of with Spacecubed and Meshpoints Murray’s identity as an innovative and recent appointment of a business to deliver the program, which is unique food and cultural destination. manager, who will operationalise supported by the State Government. Construction of the Precinct has been the business plan. made possible through a $21.75 million Business opportunities Dr Christopher Vas, Precinct Business Australian Government Regional An Enterprise Support Program has Manager, will work closely with key Growth Fund grant. been successfully negotiated with stakeholders, initially focusing on the State Government. The Program securing tenants and establishing and MORE INFORMATION will provide small business support, implementing programs, policies and Shire of Murray: Phone (08) 9531 7777 export advice and a grant voucher strategies. Following commencement or go to www.murray.wa.gov.au/agri- scheme to enable access to research innovation of operations, the manager will and product development facilities, be responsible for supporting equipment and expertise for SMEs tenant success and achieving a and start-ups. recognised market position for the Precinct within agtech, foodtech The grant voucher scheme will and Western Australian investment commence early-2021 whilst the management industries. Precinct is in construction, with a Successful delivery and operation of the Western Australian Food Innovation Precinct is being achieved by: ∙ Understanding how policy shifts, international transport capacities and costs, and changing consumer preferences will impact the food and beverage market ∙ Building workforce skills and creating regional employment

Spring/Summer 2020 | PEEL 17 Peel Development Commission

THRIVING INDUSTRY Industry partnership delivering on community goals

WORDS & IMAGES | Peel Harvey Catchment Council

An innovative partnership between Newmont Boddington Gold and the Peel- Harvey Catchment Council is supporting local community aspirations and contributing to global

sustainability initiatives. In May 2019 IUCN reps came from across the globe as part of biodiversity review with Newmont. Pictured here at Creery Wetlands, Mandurah. Building on a long standing relationship, Newmont Boddington well as local direct and indirect other parties to contribute to NRM Gold (NBG) and the Peel-Harvey employment. Landowners, local works prioritised by the Hotham- Catchment Council (PHCC) have schools and representatives from the Williams community. formalised a five-year delivery local Noongar community, industry agreement that is being recognised and government have participated A new phase of collaboration: Nationally and Internationally, in catchment strategic planning and the Newmont Boddington Gold- contributing to the United restoration activities including PHCC Community Investment Nations “Clean Water and planting, weed and feral Agreement Sanitation” Sustainable animal control that Specifically the partnership is Development Goal1. benefit both agriculture supporting: The Hotham- The Hotham-Williams and the natural Williams portion ∙ Employment of an NRM officer Rivers & Tributaries’ environment. makes up almost half to oversee implementation Natural Resource of the Peel-Harvey of activities in the Hotham- Management (NRM) A River Action Plan Catchment. Williams Catchment. and Conservation (RAP) has been ∙ Development of a RAP for the Project focuses on the prepared in partnership Hotham and Williams Rivers and critical issue of catchment with Urbaqua, and tributaries addressing natural, management in the fragile River Health Assessments conservation and cultural resource Peel-Harvey Catchment, enabling undertaken at several locations. management knowledge gaps. a long term, coordinated approach The plan will capture Aboriginal to improving river health, reducing Delivery of the agreement is now cultural perspectives and outline threats to waterways and surrounding into its third year and, under the recommendations to inform land and building community leadership of Melanie Durack potential research opportunities capacity for future land management. (PHCC’s Program Manager for the and on-ground actions. Hotham-Williams) it is going from To date the partnership has strength to strength, including being ∙ Collaboration with Noongar enabled a range of on-ground a finalist in the 2020 Department elders and community members and catchment wide activities as of Mines, Industry Regulation to incorporate traditional 1 Minerals Council of Australia & Cardno and Safety (WA) Community ecological knowledge into (2018): Sustainable Development Goals catchment planning. — Sustainability in Action — Australian Partnership Resource Sector Mining and the United Nations Sustainable Award2 and attracting interest from ∙ Delivery and support of biosecurity Development Goals https://minerals.org.au/ activities, including education sites/default/files/Sustainability%20in%20 2 http://dmp.wa.gov.au/News/Resources- Action%20October%202018%20WEB_0.pdf sector-projects-apply-27292.aspx

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and training of local community groups and landholders. ∙ Building community capacity for future land management, including conservation workshops, accredited skills development courses for landholders and Aboriginal stakeholders and local community planting events focused on priority PHCC and Newmont staff and volunteers conducting field work for the Hotham-Williams catchment areas. RAP, October 2019. ∙ Restoration projects for the Hotham and Williams Rivers and Clean water and sanitation tributaries including invasive weed control, riparian vegetation and Working together for SDG6 — Clean water and Enduring Value healthy water systems sanitation Principles community planting days; and ∙ Development and delivery of a Newmont’s partnership Expected outcomes: EV2: Integrate landowner grants program to with the Peel-Harvey • Restoration and sustainable development support sustainable agricultural Catchment Council improvement of the principles into company activities and protection of natural will support improved Peel-Harvey Catchment, policies and practices enhancing water assets across the catchment. water quality within the EV6: Seek continual catchment while also quality and supporting biodiversity improvement of Local Government Support supporting integration our environmental of local traditional • Incorporation of The Shires of Boddington, Cuballing, traditional local performance knowledge into water Wandering and Williams are also knowledge into EV7: Contribute management practices, playing an important role in the catchment planning, to conservation of sustainable agricultural partnership and have all entered into improved water biodiversity and a collaborative MoU with the PHCC practices and regional management practices and promotion of integrated approaches to which delivers an investment of up capacity building. Indigenous knowledge land use planning to $40,000^ per year to build the • Strengthened EV9: Contribute to community’s landcare capacity. community capacity the social, economic ^ Subject to annual budget approvals for future land and institutional management activities development of the Global Sustainable communities in which Development Goals we operate Adopted in 2015, the United Nations Sustainable Development Peel-Harvey surface water 1,850 employees and contractors. Goals (SDGs) are 17 ambitious and catchment Located 16 kilometres from integrated global goals to achieve Boddington, NBG sits approximately progress across the three dimensions The Peel-Harvey Catchment is a in the centre of the Peel-Harvey of sustainable development: economic 1.12 million hectare area covering the prosperity, social inclusion and entire surface water catchment of the Catchment. The Boddington Mine environmental conservation. Peel-Harvey estuarine system. The was established shortly after gold was Hotham-Williams is the upper portion discovered at the site in 1980. Newmont’s partnership with the of the Peel-Harvey surface water Newmont is one of the largest PHCC supports Goal 6: Clean Catchment and makes up almost half Water and Sanitation (see Table), in of the Peel-Harvey Catchment. custodians of land in the South- particular the indicator to support West of Western Australia with an and strengthen the participation Newmont Boddington Gold3 operational footprint of 5,000 hectares of local communities in improving Newmont Boddington Gold is the and landholdings of approximately water and sanitation management. largest operating gold mine in 30,000 hectares of native forest, The partnership enables Newmont to Australia, employing approximately plantation and agricultural land. support its catchment communities across Boddington, Wandering, Under its operating licence, NBG 3 Minerals Council of Australia & Cardno is able to extract and store up to Williams and Dwellingup and related (2018): Sustainable Development Goals localities to develop and implement a — Sustainability in Action — Australian 15 gigalitres of water per annum from water management approach that is Mining and the United Nations Sustainable the Hotham River, subject to water Development Goals https://minerals.org.au/ community-owned, championed and sites/default/files/Sustainability%20in%20 flow limits and results of ongoing delivered by them. Action%20October%202018%20WEB_0.pdf ecosystem health monitoring.

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THRIVING INDUSTRY

Volunteers at the 2018 annual Tunbridge Gully planting event in Boddington. Volunteers include the Boddington District High School students and staff, Newmont, Friends of the Reserves — Boddington (Inc.), Newmont Boddington Gold and South32 staff.

Peel-Harvey Catchment Council PHCC is a not-for-profit, community- based NRM organisation promoting an integrated approach to catchment management within the Peel-Harvey catchment. With a strong emphasis on partnerships, PHCC works with landholders, community groups, industry and all levels of government to enhance environmental management. PHCC’s activities address sustainable NRM including climate change, river and wetland restoration, biodiversity protection, sustainable agriculture and building community capacity4. Background to the Newmont River health monitoring being undertaken by Wetland Research and Management, Boddington Gold — Peel-Harvey March 2020. Catchment Council Partnership NBG and PHCC began working the Hotham-Williams Catchment working from the Boddington together in 2011 as members of declined. With support, the PHCC Community Resource Centre. The the Hotham-Williams Catchment prepared a business case and a NRM consistent local presence has Environmental Alliance (HWCEA), Strategy for the Hotham Williams enabled the PHCC to build local a community group focused and subsequently secured funding capacity amongst committed NRM on catchment-level responses. to employ a dedicated officer to stakeholder groups to build a coalition Membership of HWCEA included a work in the upper catchment. These of community support for continued broad range of stakeholders: local initial projects delivered considerable NRM. NRM and Landcare is now, Landcare groups, resource sector outcomes and reinforced the once again firmly part of the Hotham- companies, Traditional Owners, importance of a strategic approach to Williams community. environmental organisations, identify and implement community local government representatives, priorities and maintain a NRM MORE INFORMATION local schools, universities and presence in the community. https://peel-harvey.org.au/hotham- community members. williams-nrm-partnerships-turn-one/ The success of the NBG and PHCC After many years of strong support relationship is built on the mutually and community-level projects, supportive collaboration between the public investment in Landcare in two organisations. Fast forward to 2020 and the PHCC 4 Peel-Harvey Catchment Council, What we Do, PHCC, viewed 2 October 2018. now has four local professionals

20 PEEL | Spring/Summer 2020 PROGRESSIVE | PROSPEROUS | DYNAMIC

WALGA tendering workshops

WORDS & IMAGE | Peel Development Commission

When the State government makes regional prosperity a priority and commits to creating jobs in Western Australia’s regions, a lot goes into fulfilling those goals and a lot of that work is unseen.

Many of the initiatives developed to create and sustain jobs in the regions are long term projects that have in our community of more jobs for ∙ Selection criteria — what you need been worked on for many years. Such local people and more businesses to include and how much initiatives depend on making sure being able to take on apprentices and ∙ Common mistakes evaluators see local government, State Government trainees to support the development and how to fix them of our region’s youth. That’s good for agencies, industry and the local ∙ Local Government policy on community work together and that our local economy and for creating a procurement local businesses are supported to strong future for the Peel region. ∙ Tendering for big and small increase their capacity and capability. Of course, local businesses need contracts Right now, we are witnessing to be supported if they’re • Upcoming tender going to be competitive in new opportunities for creating opportunities quoting and tendering • Q&A jobs in our region by ensuring for regional Government local participation in government contracts. In partnership Preparing • Take away tips to contracting opportunities. with WALGA, more professional improve your responses local government and competitive The Western Australian government Diversifying our local authorities and the submissions. invests significant amounts of economy, and creating Peel Development money in contract services every more jobs in our region is Commission, free regional year, so it makes sense to make those not something that happens workshops were held to help opportunities more accessible to overnight, but it is something small businesses improve their local businesses. we can achieve with a long term vision tender submissions and avoid the and the commitment to collaboration The Peel Business Park was one of common mistakes. between all sectors of government, the first projects in regional Western industry and community. More While many small businesses may Australia to apply the Government’s government contracts for more local have tried and failed in winning work WA Jobs Act and the Western businesses is one way of creating more with Government, others are unsure Australian Industry Participation jobs in the Peel region. Strategy (WAIPS) to their procurement of how to approach the process for the first time. These workshops process. It’s a long name, but it MORE INFORMATION focused on practical advice on how to essentially means jobs for local people. For more information on tendering and understand the process and prepare This has resulted in $27 million of quoting for government, visit our local construction work with 16 local Peel more professional and competitive content pages on the Peel Development based businesses engaged for works submissions and included; Commission website; www.peel.wa.gov. led by DevelopmentWA. au/our-focus/local-content-advisor or ∙ Government requirements for contact Therese Ejsak, Local Content That’s a remarkable achievement tendering or quoting Advisor on (08) 9535 4140 or email and one that has the flow-on effects ∙ How tenders are assessed [email protected]

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THRIVING INDUSTRY

ALCOA’S GLOBALLY RECOGNISED REHABILITATION Contributes to the Capable people bank of scientific knowledge and the resources sector critical to more broadly. thriving industry at Alcoa

WORDS & IMAGES | Alcoa of Australia due to the flexibility, hard work and As part of its commitment to dedication of thousands of very the region, Alcoa also has a capable women and men who are clearly defined and well-funded There is no doubt at the heart of our operations. Their that 2020 has been a efforts have allowed our business to community investment program keep operating safely and actually focused on building healthy and challenging year for improve performance on a number vibrant local communities. of key operational performance families, communities In 2019, approximately $4.4 million measures,” said Michael. and businesses across was invested in community activities the globe. Contributing to regional success and programs in areas near to their operations in the south-west of WA. Alcoa has been part of the Peel region The majority of that support was While Western Australians have been since 1963, operating two bauxite delivered to recipients in the Peel very fortunate in navigating COVID-19, mines (Huntly and Willowdale) and region. It ranged from multi-year and this edition’s theme of ‘Thriving three alumina refineries, (Kwinana, multi-million dollar commitments for Industry and Capable People’ is Pinjarra and Wagerup), world class improving local waterways, including particularly relevant in the current facilities that are a major employer in the Peel Harvey Estuary, to extensive circumstances. the region. educational support programs, and Alcoa’s Vice President Operations “As a company we very much value grassroots community organisations — Australia Michael Gollschewski our place in the Western Australian and events. reflects on the critical role capable communities where we operate, and people play at the company’s Western the Peel region specifically, remains a Excellence in environmental Australian operations. high priority for our organisation. We management “Our success in managing through currently provide employment for Recognised as an industry leader in the pandemic has resulted in our 2000 people within the Peel region, environmental management, Alcoa operations continuing without 4200 across the country and in 2019 acknowledges both the privilege and interruption across 2020. I have alone we injected $1.5 billion back responsibility it has in operating in an absolutely no doubt that we have into the state’s economy through area of WA characterised by Jarrah achieved this significant outcome local purchasing,” said Gollschewski. forest, native flora and fauna and

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waterways. The company has worked and Federal Governments intended that’s not enough. We must strive to collaboratively with community, to modernise the environmental exceed expectations at every level of government and leading researchers approval framework for the Pinjarra our operation, which is why we have over many years to deliver a Alumina Refinery and Huntly proactively initiated this process with comprehensive reserve system in the Bauxite Mine. government. We are committed to northern Jarrah forest. working positively with stakeholders Since May, Alcoa’s representatives through this process to help ensure Mr Gollschewski praised the efforts have been actively engaging with the continued success of the of Alcoa employees in contributing local communities and stakeholders communities in which we operate,” to research that not only informs to provide greater transparency said Gollschewski. Alcoa’s rehabilitation practices but about its operations, explain future contributes to the bank of scientific development plans, seek feedback, Commitment to the future knowledge and the resources sector answer questions and ensure With a proud history that dates back more broadly. that people have the facts about to 1888 and the invention of the “Our approach to rehabilitation operations. aluminium smelting process, Alcoa is globally recognised as leading To date, less than four per cent of the recognises that future success will practice — a fact of which we are Jarrah forest in the company’s bauxite depend on securing resources to unashamedly proud and which mineral lease, or about one per cent ensure the longevity of its operations, is a strong example of the of the total Jarrah forest in the whilst also seeking new and extraordinary capability of south-west, has been mined. innovative ways to grow the business. our people whose efforts Over the entire life of the That strategy was reflected in the have led to ways to Future success proposed WA operations, recent signing of three new gas maximise fauna return depends on ensuring Alcoa expects to mine post-mining and, in the longevity of less than eight per cent agreements to supply its three collaboration with operations and seeking of the Jarrah forest in refineries over a 10-year period, the new Cooperative innovative ways to its mineral lease or less providing certainty for employees, Research Centre for grow the business. than three per cent of the suppliers, customers and the Transformation in Mining total Jarrah forest in the communities where it operates. Economies (CRC-TiME), will south-west. Alcoa does not soon lead to new techniques mine in gazetted national parks, As part of its commitment to to further improve rehabilitation nature conservation reserves, old innovation, Alcoa has launched outcomes,” said Gollschewski. growth forest or other areas of high the industry’s first low-carbon, smelter-grade alumina brand Exceeding community conservation value. known as EcoSource, for which its expectations “For our business to continue to three WA refineries will all supply As part of its desire to exceed thrive into the future, our desire is to alumina. EcoSource has significant community expectations, Alcoa has go beyond just meeting community environmental advantages as it is recently initiated an environmental expectations for responsible produced with no more than 0.6 tons assessment process with the State environmental management — of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) per ton of alumina, two times better than the industry’s average of 1.2 tons

of CO2e. “During this period of challenge Alcoa’s employees, suppliers and contractors have worked together to adapt to an ever-changing situation and find solutions that ensure EMPLOYMENT continued safe and productive Alcoa currently operations. I believe that our people, provides our systems and our sustained focus employment for 2000 people on continuous improvement hold within the the key to Alcoa’s ongoing success Peel region. and I very much look forward to us being a part of and maintaining positive connections with the Peel community for many years to come,” said Gollschewski.

MORE INFORMATION Visit Alcoa’s website: www.alcoa.com/australia

Spring/Summer 2020 | PEEL 23 Peel Development Commission

THRIVING INDUSTRY Assisting Peel Aboriginal Businesses

WORDS & IMAGE | Peel Development services, community services and register as operators. Other awareness Commission works to improve the economic and capability initiatives include; prosperity of not only the Aboriginal ∙ Connected with Noongar CCI The Aboriginal people involved, but also the to work together to encourage broader Aboriginal community. registration of Peel businesses. Procurement Policy Increased government contracting ∙ Collaborated with PHCC and with Aboriginal businesses is also came into effect from Winjan in the application expected to provide new employment process for the Aboriginal 1 July 2018 and sets opportunities for Aboriginal people Rangers’ Program. throughout the state. mandatory government ∙ Influenced and supported the procurement targets Since the launch of this implementation of the Aboriginal for contracting with policy the Peel Development Procurement Policy through Commission has supported collaboration with Department of Aboriginal businesses. awareness and capability Finance (DoF) in the ‘Aboriginal Business Sector Procurement This policy requires government initiatives through the local Training’ workshop. Also worked departments to award contracts to content program in the region. with Business Advisory South West registered Aboriginal businesses, The Aboriginal Business Development and Peel (BASW&P) to deliver the consistent with progressive targets Aboriginal social media workshop increasing to three per cent. The Forum, which coincided with the policy launch in 2018, was an ‘Introduction to Facebook targets apply to all government and Instagram’. agencies when purchasing goods, important first step in providing a Instrumental in organising services, community services networking forum, bringing awareness ∙ the consultative process and works. to the Aboriginal Procurement Policy and the opportunities it presents, with Indigenous Professional As a major employer, capital investor, as well as highlighting the support Services (IPS), Peel Harvey asset manager and purchaser of mechanisms that are available. Catchment Council (PHCC) and goods and services in Western Indigenous Managed Services Australia, it makes sense for the Momentum continued this year with (IMS) in the delivery of the DoF State Government to leverage these the Aboriginal Business Tourism Aboriginal Business Capability roles to provide opportunities for Operators workshop and Think Building program. Aboriginal businesses. Tank, ‘Culture in the Parks’, which connected relevant agencies with WA ∙ Involvement in the Bunbury The targets are designed to achieve Indigenous Tourism Operators Council Outer Ring Road project meeting the prioritisation of Aboriginal (WAITOC) to assist Peel Aboriginal with IPS, CoM and PCCI to assist businesses when procuring goods, businesses develop capabilities and Peel businesses to undertake subcontracting engagement with the Head Contractor. ∙ More recently collaborating with PHCC and IMS in the Wirra Hub Seminar to assist local Aboriginal Businesses grow their businesses using this free business coaching service.

MORE INFORMATION Visit our local content pages on the Peel Development Commission website; www.peel.wa.gov.au/our-focus/local- content-advisor or contact Therese Ejsak, Local Content Advisor on (08) 9535 4140 or [email protected]

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Developing a future-ready workforce in the Peel. Capable people Peel’s greatest asset

WORDS | Peel Development Commission supporting local industry growth, Achieving these objectives will IMAGE | Visit Mandurah & Russel Ord jobs growth will be constrained and require long-term commitment and Photography unemployment in the region is likely collaboration to ensure pathways to continue to rise. Transformational are in place from early education to Peel’s workforce strategies, such as Transform Peel university, through to employment and the Peel Business Park, as well as that are targeted to both existing and will be highly skilled the development of the agri-business future industry sectors. sector, will provide strong and varied and adaptable Pathways for careers in health and industry and business sectors, and community services, aged care to structural and also create direct and indirect jobs services, mining, manufacturing and to support local employment and technological change construction, retail, accommodation, protect the incomes of families in hospitality, tourism, agriculture and to support a strong and the Peel. food will continue to be developed as diverse economy. The capable people theme for the these industries adapt for the future. economic development of the Peel Access to world-class education, The delivery of high quality and training and higher education region focuses on the following relevant training that meets the systems is central to Peel’s future objectives; economic growth, employment and ∙ Developing our human capital workforce needs of industry, and workforce prospects. These systems, to ensure the region can grow strengths community knowledge coupled with the community’s and prosper and understanding of industry- knowledge, skills and capability will ∙ Advancing the skills and focused education and career assist in attracting businesses and experience of Peel’s workforce pathway opportunities, is critical. people into the region, as well as incorporating all working ages, ensuring existing businesses and backgrounds and abilities, to Investment in education and people remain in the community. be highly sought after and training infrastructure that meets competitive in the labour market industry’s workforce needs for the To support the needs of the Peel’s future is also a priority and will help ∙ Increasing access to, and rapidly growing population, and drive the establishment of a locally governance over, regionally-based attract new businesses and industries, based university and autonomously vocational training and higher the Peel Development Commission governed vocational education and education for Peel residents supports key initiatives to improve training institutions with regional outcomes in education, developing ∙ Developing and increase access campuses in key locations. a future-ready workforce and to education and training contributing to a brighter future in pathways programs that lead to MORE INFORMATION regional Western Australia. employment in priority industry Peel Development Commission: Without a dedicated focus on occupations for the region’s www.peel.wa.gov.au attracting new businesses and young people

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CAPABLE PEOPLE

Future of work WORDS | John Pike, Murdoch University Future economic growth in the Peel microcredential) to upgrade their skills IMAGES | Murdoch University region will reflect this trend with new or to gain new competencies. jobs most likely to be in areas such as No matter where you start, to be health and aged care; water science; successful it will be advantageous to You might have heard agriculture, especially advanced have solid grounding across several agriculture and agtech; and mining that the world of work areas of knowledge and skill. Good is changing — new and advanced manufacturing. depth of knowledge in different technologies, the gig Many of our existing jobs as well disciplines helps support creativity, as most of these new jobs will rely problem-solving and innovation. Think economy, increasing on STEM (Science, Technology, of a radiologist with some background automation, and jobs Engineering and Maths) skills as well in gaming or 3-D visualisation who as demanding ‘human’ skills such as might come up with an innovative way that you’ll be applying communicating, interacting, decision- of helping patients visualise their scans, for that don’t exist yet. making, reasoning, and advising. or a farmer with data skills who can use remote monitoring to better utilise The World Economic Forum estimates Employers will be looking for multi- scarce water resources. skilled workers. In agriculture, for that half of all work tasks will be Where do you start? Murdoch handled by machines by 2025 but example, jobs will continue to call for basic manual and mechanical skills as University (www.murdoch.edu.au/ millions of new jobs will emerge in study)and South Metropolitan TAFE care, big data and the green economy. well as increasing demand for higher level skills such as your ability to use (www.southmetrotafe.wa.edu.au) offer and maintain technology; how you a wide range of courses that will help you gain future ready qualifications analyse and visualise data and make that prepare you for a wide range of decisions based on your data, and careers in demand across the Peel your capacity to continue learning region. One obvious example is the and renewing skills. certificate courses and microcredentials Jobs in health-based areas that SM TAFE offer in automation, including Australia’s first Certificate IV in remote seek to improve the mental or operations. Murdoch has courses to set physical health of others will grow you on a path to a career in agriculture, strongly over the next few years. health, nursing and aged care, or one of many STEM-based professions. This is not just nurses and doctors but fitness instructors, occupational Work might be changing, but that therapists, massage therapists, doesn’t have to mean that robots will paramedics, medical technicians, and take your job. The key to your future is so on. All these jobs will have access to being adaptable and how you manage new technologies and will need STEM being adaptable will help you carve out skills as well as skills in interacting a good career. with others, and problem solving and organisational skills to make effective MORE INFORMATION use of new equipment and software. Peel Development Commission: www.peel.wa.gov.au Education will be key to how you meet the demands of jobs of the Murdoch University: www.murdoch.edu.au/study future. For some that will mean a degree or VET qualification, for South Metropolitan TAFE: www.southmetrotafe.wa.edu.au others it will mean a short course (or what some people are now calling a https://joboutlook.gov.au/

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WA Trade Commissioners visit puts Peel on the map for overseas trade

WORDS & IMAGE | Peel Development framing presentations on future and “Our role in connecting communities, Commission current regional plans and projects. industry and government helps to make our region prosper and These projects and enterprises our regional economy stronger. illustrate the region’s advantage The Peel Development A strong economy and regional with existing and emerging export Commission, in prosperity requires collaborative and tourism opportunities, and relationships between industry, partnership with the in becoming a regional hub for government and communities. The innovation in food and agriculture. Invest and Trade WA Trade Commissioners’ visit was a team from the State Transform Peel, the 35-year fantastic opportunity to link into visionary project to create relationships with some of our closest Department of Jobs, international economic partners and new industries, more jobs and Tourism, Science achieve advocacy for the investment improved food security, of which opportunities our region offers.” and Innovation, was the Peel Business Park is a The Trade Commissioners delighted to welcome strategic element, demonstrates participating in the tour included four of the state’s trade the innovation and collaboration Peter Baldwin, Commissioner, India, the region is becoming known for. Stuart Crockett, Commissioner commissioners to visit China, David McCulloch, Acting Paddi Creevey, Chair, Peel Commissioner Japan, Jennifer the Peel region. Development Commission, said the Mathews, Commissioner Indonesia visit enabled many solid connections The visit was an opportunity for the and Rebecca Ball, Executive Director, with plenty of follow-up potential. Commissioners to learn about trade Invest and Trade WA. and investment opportunities in the These relationships and opportunities, the collaboration between government, region, as well as plans for the region’s MORE INFORMATION future growth. industry, and the community, are a key component of the Peel Development Peel Development Commission: www.peel.wa.gov.au Western Australia’s Trade Commission’s vision for diversifying Commissioners play a critical role in our regional economy and creating a advancing international opportunities bright future for the Peel. for Australians. This was a chance for the Peel Development Commission (PDC) to brief the Commissioners and Invest and Trade WA on the development priorities for the region and to show off some of Peel’s unique capabilities, create some new connections to overseas business networks, create awareness and attract investment into the region. The Commissioners were able to learn more about the region from PDC Board Members while viewing our fantastic waterways with Mandurah Cruises. They then took in a progress tour of the Peel Business Park, and a visit to Fruitico’s Riverdale Farm painting the vision for Peel as a progressive, prosperous and dynamic region with a culture of care and

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CAPABLE PEOPLE

Region in focus City of Mandurah’s future is looking bright

● With its spectacular waterways, that, we are seeing job losses and ● ● RAMSAR-listed wetlands and businesses struggling, and the social ● SERPENTINE-JARRAHDALE beautiful beaches, all within an hour issues that stem from the stresses and of the capital city, it’s not hard to see uncertainty that causes. ● ●

● why so many people are choosing to “We are an amazing location for ● visit Mandurah or call it home.

● people to live and play in, but as Mandurah continues to restart and ● Current population forecasts rebuild following the damaging ● predict that between 2016 and effects of the pandemic, the need to 2036, the population for the diversify the local economy and create City of Mandurah will increase long-term quality jobs has become by 37,000 people, a staggering even more clear.” 44.3% growth. However, Mandurah has an ambitious As Mayor Rhys Williams explains, with plan to address these challenges in WORDS & IMAGES | City of Mandurah such a beautiful natural environment, its ‘Transform Mandurah’ economic a thriving and connected revitalisation agenda, which is already Once a small fishing community, and huge day tripper drawing significant attention from numbers, it is easy to overlook the government, private investors and the village, Mandurah has challenges that come with dramatic education sector. population growth. seen rapid growth “Council’s Transform Mandurah agenda and is now a thriving “Mandurah’s economy has long is an ambitious 10-year plan that will been centred on tourism, hospitality, require significant government buy-in city of close to 90,000 retail and construction, which means from all levels. It has the potential to people, which last year we feel it intensely when the State be a game changer for Mandurah,” welcomed three million economy declines. We don’t have a Mayor Williams said. port or an airport or any significant “Our plan leverages our unique day trippers, more than industry to boost our economy during waterways and natural environment, tough times,” Mayor Williams said. any other location in and will deliver short and long-term the State. “The current COVID-19 pandemic has investment, quality sustainable jobs magnified the challenges that already and education opportunities. It also exist in Mandurah. The majority of our aims to bring new workforces and jobs are reliant on people spending more pedestrian activation to the money in our City and without City Centre.

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“Momentum is already building “Projects like this also go a long way The new skate park will be a modern, with the significant waterfront towards increasing tourism and regional-scale skate and activity area redevelopments underway — not visitation which will help in boosting with state-of-the-art recreation and only creating awesome spaces for our our local economy from the damage activity spaces for families, residents community, but also clearly signalling that’s been done by COVID. While this and visitors alike. project has been a long time in the to investors that Mandurah means “We’ve worked really hard with making, it has certainly come just at business and has a strong, resilient our community, the project team the right time.” future ahead.” and designers to make this project something really special, and it is Mandurah’s Waterfront The Mandurah Waterfront Project great to see it making such amazing revitalisation project the start of includes a number of components progress,” he said. a transforming City and stages; the Western Foreshore Recreation Precinct, Eastern Works are well and truly underway on Also on the Western Foreshore Foreshore South Precinct, will be a large-scale the $22 million Mandurah Waterfront Smart Street Mall Precinct, Project, which is set to change the adventure play space and the Eastern Foreshore with climbing structures face of Mandurah’s City Centre, and The floating jetty North Boardwalk and nature play, with deliver iconic foreshore spaces for estuary pool will Precinct. construction due to start people to meet, play and rest. be a major feature The overall project has of the Waterfront in late 2020. Mayor Williams said this major and received funding from revitalisation project. An exciting feature of the much-needed project supports local the Federal Government Eastern Foreshore South tourism and jobs for the future. ($7 million) and the State Precinct will be a circular, Government ($10 million). “This redevelopment will rejuvenate enclosed estuary pool with our city and enhance the ways we The first stage of the project — floating jetty platform, giving a nod interact with our waterfront precinct, redeveloping the popular Mandurah back to the days of the Mandurah as well as sending a clear message to Skate Park — is making great baths and Robert Day Memorial Pools potential investors that the time to progress in construction, and is due of the 1950s and 60s. invest in Mandurah is now,” he said. for completion later this year. The Eastern Foreshore works also include an upgraded beach area with ramp access, and upgraded jetty and boat parking facilities, creating more water-based recreation and tourism opportunities. The Smart Street Mall precinct is also set for $2.5 million major upgrades to create adaptable, pedestrian-focused and activated streets, catering for ENCLOSED markets, buskers, street performers ESTUARY POOL and events. $22 million Mandurah Mandurah set to become the Waterfront centre of Australia’s water Project. science and research industry Mandurah’s innovative Waterways Data Array project, which is already being trialed, will involve a series of sensors across the Peel-Harvey Estuary that will feed real-time ecology and hydrology data to an open online dashboard that can be accessed by students, scientists, researchers and industry. Importantly, this data will ensure Government and other leaders have the information needed for informed decision making and to act on the wellbeing of our waterways for now and into the future.

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CAPABLE PEOPLE

Mayor Williams said Mandurah’s unique waterways already attract researchers and PhD students from beyond the Peel region, and the Data Array will act as a catalyst for the creation of a broader water science industry in Mandurah. “Council’s Transform Mandurah agenda looks to capitalise on all this YALGORUP with the creation of the Australian NATIONAL PARK Waterways Research Centre of A unique chance Excellence,” he said. for Mandurah to provide “This will act as a hub for water significant sciences, creating education pathways eco-tourism for our kids, bringing professional jobs opportunities. to Mandurah and diversifying and strengthening our economy. “Not only is our estuary stunning and WESTERN perhaps our community’s most prized FORESHORE part of Mandurah living, it is also vital SKATEPARK to our local economy.” Each year $217 million is spent in Mandurah on recreational fishing, another $40 million on boat maintenance and operations in the Peel, and an awesome $318.2 million is generated in tourism expenditure. Council is also working with the Peel Harvey Catchment Council to help provide research and sciences infrastructure, including labs, vehicles and equipment that will make it And so, the second component of the importantly, education pathways easier for people to come and study Transform Mandurah plan is about for our kids, centred around the Mandurah’s waterways. rethinking Mandurah’s City Centre. water sciences and associated knowledge industries.” “The Data Array is the first step to Council is looking to create a key repositioning Mandurah as the commerce hub that draws people The Transform Mandurah City Centre centre for estuarine research and in to Mandurah from outside and revitalisation plan would also bring ultimately realising Mandurah’s creates the professional jobs that arts and culture to the City Centre, waterways as a unique opportunity Mandurah needs to have that strong potentially including a library, for economic growth,” Mayor and resilient economy. cultural centre, amphitheatre and Williams said. sculpture works. It would also be well “Our community has told us that our Mayor Williams said the City was connected to the train station and waterways need to be at the centre working with State Government to throughout Mandurah with a rapid of everything we do, and we agree. relocate a government agency to transport network right into the Not only are they the core reason Mandurah, bringing with it 900 to City Centre. 1000 people into the City Centre to for why people love this place, they “We are aiming for an accessible, are also our competitive advantage really activate it during the day. vibrant and lively City Centre where that need to be nurtured for future “We are also looking at how we people want to work, visit and generations.” can incentivise the private sector socialise during the day, as well as into the evening,” Mayor Williams said. Creation of a civic heart to relocate or bring regional offices to breathe new life into into Mandurah to really diversify our Eco-tourism and events Mandurah’s City Centre economy and create local professional opportunities to take Mandurah’s jobs,” he said. If Mandurah is to be the National tourism to the next level centre of water science, then it needs “Coupled with this, we are looking to The third part of the Transform a City Centre that can attract and partner with education and training Mandurah plan is about making the accommodate those private industry providers to create and deliver most of what Mandurah already has and government bodies. citizen science opportunities and in a great tourism reputation.

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Mayor Williams said with three million The Plan outlines what’s important to the Transform Mandurah agenda people visiting last year, it was clear the people of Mandurah, and sets out and ensure the city’s future is bright that Mandurah is a place people want a vision and actions to achieve shared and prosperous. to visit and we need to capitalise on goals over the next 20 years. The group will provide expert strategic that with more unique experiences Mayor Williams said the Plan was advice to the Council’s economic and event offerings. developed after 18 months of agenda, and are well positioned to help “If we are going to take our tourism work with the community, which build a strong, diverse and resilient to the next level, we have to think is the City’s biggest community local economy. differently about the product we have engagement project to date. The Taskforce is chaired by to offer both in the City Centre and “This Plan was shaped by our neuroscientist Professor Lyn Beazley, throughout the Mandurah region,” community, for our community. It WA’s former Chief Scientist and 2015 he said. clarifies what’s important to us as West Australian of the Year. The Transform Mandurah plan looks citizens of Mandurah, and paves an Also appointed to the group are well- to attract a hotel of an international ambitious pathway for the journey respected and experienced business standard to the City Centre, as well as ahead,” he said. leaders Alan Cransberg, William (Bill) a convention centre that will allow the Based on what the community Hames, and Myrianthe Riddy. area to host significant conferences highlighted as priorities, the and events. These impressive local leaders have Mandurah Matters Plan has four relevant expertise and networks, and are “The City’s events attraction strategy key focus areas of economy, social acutely aware of the current economic guides the City to become WA’s wellbeing, health and environment, challenges faced by Mandurah. regional events capital, which has so which will form the basis of everything far been successful with many major the City does moving forward. They will help the city to identify and events held in Mandurah. However, act on the initiatives that will give we need a dedicated conference “Now is the perfect time to focus Mandurah the best chance of a strong and events space with associated on our economic plans, using restart post COVID-19 and future accommodation and attractions to the Transform Mandurah project economic transformation. host more and larger events, and to launch our bold vision for the Mayor Williams said Mandurah encourage visitors to stay longer and future,” Mayor Williams said. will need support from all levels of return to the city,” Mayor Williams said. “We’re heavily focusing on our big- Government to restructure the local “Once the City Centre precinct picture efforts to transform our city economy, and the taskforce will play is redeveloped, there will be and bring growth, development a key role in helping us to achieve this opportunities to host larger research and more economic diversity to our level of commitment. and professional conferences around beautiful city.” “Through many months of research and environmental issues, agriculture, planning, we have developed exciting aquaculture and water sustainability, Mandurah’s new economic plans for our Transform Mandurah consistent with the burgeoning taskforce vision and economic diversity, and we water economy.” In helping to shape a new story now need support to bring these plans Beyond the City Centre, the Transform for Mandurah’s economy, a new to life,” he said. Mandurah Plan looks to the Yalgorup Economic Development Taskforce has National Park as a unique chance for just been created. MORE INFORMATION Mandurah to provide significant eco- A group of four energetic and Contact the City of Mandurah at tourism opportunities. experienced Mandurah locals have visitmandurahmatters.com.au or on (08) 9550 3777. “We currently have 13,000 hectares volunteered their time to help deliver of amazing national park on our doorstep, with a big fence around it. We are looking to unlock this hidden treasure and open it up for commercial and recreational opportunities for people to get out into nature and enjoy Mandurah’s reputation as a natural beauty and a real eco-tourism town,” Mayor Williams said. Community vision the driving force behind Mandurah Matters In 2020, the City launched the Mandurah Matters Strategic Community Plan, which was shaped MAYOR RHYS with the help of more than 2000 WILLIAMS community members.

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CAPABLE PEOPLE Delivering skills in Peel for WA's recovery WORDS & IMAGES | South Metropolitan To meet the needs of the Peel “There is a new Apprenticeship TAFE industry, SM TAFE has developed free and Traineeship Re-engagement skill sets from nationally recognised Incentive to assist businesses to vocational training, with some also employ an apprentice or trainee South Metropolitan TAFE available online. and help WA build a pipeline of (SM TAFE) is making skilled employees as we move into SM TAFE’s Mandurah campus is the economic recovery phase,” training more affordable also home to the Peel Jobs and Melinda said. and accessible in the Skills Centre (JSC) in partnership with Bridging the Gap and SMYL “Displaced apprentices and trainees Peel region to help Community Services. who have had their training rebuild the WA economy. cancelled or suspended by their The Peel JSC is a one-stop- employer due to the impact of WA needs skilled workers to be part shop for free careers, COVID-19, can still continue off the of the state’s recovery, so SM TAFE is apprenticeship and job training with TAFE at no cost.” offering a range of courses at reduced Course fees for many qualifications prices in Mandurah to help people traineeship and employment in Mandurah have been reduced get the skills they need, for the job advice and assistance. for semester 1, 2021 to stimulate they want. Manager of the Peel JSC, Melinda training in key areas including SM TAFE works closely with Peel Blagaich, said numerous incentives horticulture, construction, tourism, industries, businesses and employers have been introduced to support aged care, early childhood studies to identify the types of skills needed and enhance the capacity of the Peel and hospitality. right now. industry to meet the current and future workforce and skills needs.

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NEW COURSES Responding to the needs of numerous industries including health, tourism and hairdressing. Applications for semester 1 2021 are now open. New courses on offer SM TAFE is also offering several new courses at the Mandurah campus in 2021 to develop Peel’s capability and respond to the needs of numerous industries including health, tourism Hospitality and Tourism MORE INFORMATION and hairdressing. Training Centre Peel Jobs and Skills Centre call As part of the WA Recovery 13 64 64 or visit www.jobsandskills. wa.gov.au Health and Nursing Studies Plan, the State Government recently announced a world-class South Metropolitan TAFE SM TAFE is planning for Peel’s future hospitality and tourism training call 1800 001 001 or visit health workforce by introducing the centre will be built at SM TAFE’s www.southmetrotafe.wa.edu.au Preparation for Health and Nursing Mandurah campus. Studies qualification to Mandurah in semester 1, 2021. The $9.17 million centre will vastly improve the greater Peel region’s This course will be delivered part-time capacity to train job-ready, highly at night so students can work during skilled chefs, front of house staff, the day, while also gaining the medical and events management and knowledge and skills to ease into tourism workers. nursing studies. The facility will focus on training Salon Assistant Course apprentice chefs and engaging local secondary students, young people A new Salon Assistant course will and the long-term unemployed in be delivered for the first time in vocational education and training. SM TAFE’s student hair, beauty and massage clinic in Mandurah Mandurah’s new state-of-the-art next year to prepare students for a training facility will meet demand hairdressing apprenticeship. for more skilled workers and greater youth engagement in the region Outdoor Recreation Course by expanding training options To support Mandurah’s tourism and the number of half price industry, SM TAFE has also introduced courses available. an Outdoor Recreation course that Applications to study at South provides students with the skills and Metropolitan TAFE in semester 1, knowledge to work in marine tourism. 2021 are now open.

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CAPABLE PEOPLE Showcasing innovation in action Peel Bright Minds

WORDS | Skipper van Peer, Program common; they will have an aptitude to of industry widening all the time, there Director, Peel Bright Minds learn, an interest in STEM and belong is a need to demystify STEM-related IMAGES | Peel Bright Minds & Tangents TV to an aspirant community. careers and show what the future of Peel-based industries look like. The challenge for the Peel is to As our world becomes facilitate the growth of a workforce Since 2018, Peel Bright Minds has been more technologically that embodies these characteristics on a mission to increase community to avoid being left behind amidst the interest in STEM and digital fields and advanced and changes. This will require developing a inspire a culture of life-long learning. automation becomes workforce with transferable skills, one This means connecting the community which is well prepared to regularly up- with relevant and accessible learning more extensive, the skill, reskill and change jobs. To thrive, experiences that inspire aspirant changing nature of work Peel will need a culture in which thinking towards training pathways continues to accelerate. people are aware of and value STEM and career decisions. and see its relevance to their everyday In partnership with the Department of lives and future careers. The workforce Although we may not know what the Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, will also need to be passionate about jobs of the future will be, we do know Peel Bright Minds is launching the using STEM to solve problems and that STEM-related fields will be critical Industry Insights initiative. The video take advantage of opportunities right to a thriving economy and the arsenal series feature Peel based organisations of a resilient workforce. here in the Peel. who are innovating in their field The jobs of tomorrow will demand It isn’t always clear what STEM- and developing a workforce that will STEM skills, digital expertise, problem related job opportunities are available thrive no matter how technology solving and critical thinking. Peel locally, nor is it clear what STEM evolves in the future. The first episode Bright Minds believes that the people careers actually involve in real-world is will be out in November, starring who will soar in the careers of the application. With the gap between Murray Engineering’s automation and future will have three characteristics in career-education and the demands innovation team.

STEM-RELATED FIELDS Critical to a thriving economy and the arsenal of a resilient workforce.

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The episode looks at how Murray Engineering’s dedicated innovation team are developing mining technology that will make operations less wasteful, more precise, and most importantly safer. The team have immense pride for their work and believe that what they are creating with intelligent automation and renewable energy will change the future of the industry. One of the projects mentioned in the episode is the development of electric vehicles specifically for use on mine sites. Dr Max Ong, Manager of Innovation and Technology explains that diesel exhaust emissions underground can be detrimental to the health of workers and the environment. “A very big challenge in the underground mining industry is diesel particulate emissions especially exhaust gases that can be harmful to your health.” “We’re working on electric vehicles to reduce the amount of emissions, which is also great for the Automation and smart sensor in the Peel region that are solving environment because we reduce our technology have the potential to problems and finding new ways to use of traditional fuels such as diesel significantly increase Australia’s do things across a range of sectors. and petrol.” economic competitiveness, with By highlighting and cheering on Although the benefits of electric automation alone set to provide local innovators, we can encourage young and emerging problem vehicles are clear, the mining industry a $2.2 trillion boost to solvers to keep aspiring and needs to be able to apply renewable our national income developing their skills in energy in their day-to-day operations between 2015 and 2030 from productivity the region. without bottlenecks, extra costs Helping gains (RMIT, 2020). or delays. The continued Murray Engineering businesses to make better use of advancement of “What is unique about our batteries is positioning itself human effort. technology is inevitable, is that they can be recharged very to capitalise on so the goal of Peel Bright very rapidly using various sources this opportunity. By Minds is to empower the including renewables such as solar or developing automation local community to embrace wind energy.” technology, they will allow and make use of new technology businesses to make better use and opportunities. If Peel can adopt “A regular road car would take 8–10 of human effort, with machines hours to charge — basically overnight. and develop new technology in a way taking over mundane tasks so that that leverages the region’s unique What we’re working on here at Murray employees can focus on skills unique advantages, we will see a greater ability will allow our electric mine vehicles to humans such as critical thinking, to compete in the market, better to be recharged within 10–15 minutes. creativity and emotional intelligence. decision making, higher standards That is quite a breakthrough for the This opens up new opportunities for of living and positive social and entire industry.” businesses to improve and optimise environmental change. In addition to electric vehicles, their operations. Murray Engineering is developing Murray Engineering is just one MORE INFORMATION autonomous vehicle technology and example of a Peel-based company For more information on Industry Insights various underground equipment that is applying 21st century skills visit www.peelbrightminds.com.au or search Peel Bright Minds on social media. features that use intelligent and innovating in their field. There navigation and guidance technology. are many other local organisations

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CAPABLE PEOPLE Powering the METS sector through innovation WORDS & IMAGES | Murray Engineering “Murray has a very strong vision to Stand-Alone mode. The breathing air use advanced automation and data regeneration system provides clean technologies to improve operational breathing air; a large battery bank Murray Engineering performance, safety and efficiency”, provides power for the emergency continues to go from Dr Ong says. systems, and the climate control system keeps the chamber’s interior strength to strength by “Safe, efficient, robust and temperature and humidity at a dependable technology is our priority. bringing the power of safe level. Murray Engineering is not introducing innovation to the mining technology for the sake of having To combat some of the more equipment, technology a hand in the technology shift in technical issues that most mine the METS industry. There is a clear sites face, Murray has developed and services industry. objective of using the technology to the OptiME 3D Shotcrete Peel based mining services provider, improve the bottom line of customers, Murray Engineering is fast becoming and that certainly starts with safety Optimiser, and the AlignME an innovation powerhouse in the and efficiency measures.” Jumbo Drill Alignment system. South-West. State-of-the-art Refuge One such safety measure is the The Shotcrete Optimiser is a precision Chambers, a 3D Shotcrete Optimizer introduction of Refuge Chambers to 3D technology for measuring, and a Jumbo Drill Alignment system the mix of services that Murray offers. analysing, visualising and recording are just some of the revolutionary The chambers are manufactured by the quality of shotcrete ground new innovations which have been Murrays in Pinjarra and Newcastle, support. All too often, operators developed in recent months by and are built for Australian mining overspray or underspray the shotcrete the company. conditions. In an emergency, material, which can either be Dr Max Ong, the Technology and RefugeME Chambers are self- extremely wasteful and expensive. Innovation Manager, is the driving sufficient and do not depend on Even worse, tunnel integrity can force behind many of the company’s external air or power supplies to be compromised if the shotcrete is recent projects. keep occupants safe — especially in applied too thin. Operators usually

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MURRAY ENGINEERING Safe, efficient, robust and dependable mining technology.

rely on visual thickness assessment, on holding an industry open modern workshops and facilities; used which can be subjective and day in partnership with AusIMM as the exporting springboard to more flawed, or occasional spot-testing and the Underground Operators than 20 countries globally. which is both time-consuming and Conference 2021. The company was also recently resource intensive. With OptiME- visited by the Premier, Mark 3D technology, operators can now The tour will invite METS professionals to view the 55,000m2 McGowan, who was delighted that scan the shotcrete in real time, and these impressive innovations were receive a live measurement on a headquarters in Pinjarra, coming from the local Pinjarra region. 3D map which highlights areas showcasing innovations which are Murray Engineering continues to which are too thick or thin, and then a fusion of military, Formula-1 and demonstrate how Peel businesses adjust accordingly. aerospace technology adapted to are leading the way in heavy industry, On the other hand, AlignME is an the mining industry. and are constantly pushing the innovative technology for precision boundaries to solve serious safety 3D drill alignment on jumbo drill The open day will include a full and production issues in mining machines. Drilling at precise angles site tour around each of the seven and beyond. different mining services divisions: is crucial in achieving maximum Mechanical, Electrical, Fabrication, MORE INFORMATION productivity and quality. AlignME Pumping, Automation & Control gives a live measurement of drill Visit www.murrayengineering.com.au Systems, Products and Hire, and or search Murray Engineering on social angles, and ultimately, it minimises Labour Hire. Guests will also be media. If you would like to express hole deviation therefore improving able to experience some of the interest in attending the 2021 industry drilling outcomes. open day, please contact shanae.curtis@ recently launched, and yet to be murrayengineering.com.au. In order to help launch these new released state-of-the-art technology products into the mine safety sphere, and innovations, see live machine Murray Engineering is planning demonstrations, and look around the

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CAPABLE PEOPLE

Local support was tremendous.

PinjarraBakery

WORDS & IMAGES | Pinjarra Bakery

Tell us a bit about the bakery’s history and background.

We didn’t start out as pie maker or bakers. But our Italian roots have long inspired a love of food and coming together as a family. The bakery was founded in the mid 90s when mum and dad (Larry & Narda Pantaleo) decided to start producing a small selection of specialty baked goods within their existing fresh food mart business. The bakery component of the business became so successful, they decided to move next door into an independent bricks and mortar store and in 1997, Pinjarra Bakery & Patisserie was born. Local support was tremendous and people came from around the Murray DISTINCTIVE and South West to taste the superbly AND UNIQUE prepared, bread, cakes and pies. Our signature Our earliest entries at local awards pies are what we shows were triumphant — and we’ve are re-known for. continued to enter every single year since then.

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After 10 years of operation and three adult kids in tow — we finally moved into a brand-new purpose built flagship store in Pinjarra. Building on this success, not long after we celebrated the opening of our second store in Waroona — in 2014 Maddington, and most recently INNOVATION we opened our fourth store in Port More of a Kennedy, December 2018. necessity rather than a choice, Our signature pies are what we are these days. re-known for. Distinctive and unique, crammed to the brim with tasty fillings you can see and flavour combinations that have become crowd favourites. to explore new markets and proud is our commitment to product offerings that were just not employing, nurturing and mentoring Together with our 90 strong team, possible before. local talent. we’ve been rolling out award winning goodness for more than 23 years. We’re There is huge growth potential within We genuinely believe that Pinjarra proud of what we’ve achieved and these partnerships and alliances — we Bakery has been integral in putting stand by our belief in creating simple, haven’t even scratched the surface our local region on the map. We want feel good food to be enjoyed. yet. Exciting times ahead! to continue broadening our brand awareness and become a highly Q Where do you see the business Q How important is innovation in recognisable brand — both nationally into the future (e.g. five years’ time). keeping a company like Pinjarra and internationally. Bakery competitive and what are Are there any plans to expand Bakery some of the bakery’s innovative further? In turn, a major draw card for tourists advancements that have had a We have plans to expand into a new, considering visiting the Peel region. big impact on the company and/ purpose built bakehouse/distribution Q What’s the thing about Pinjarra or industry? facility in the not too distant future. Bakery that you’re most proud of? The aim is to try and keep our main Innovation is more of a necessity rather Probably that fact that we are family production house local and exclusive to than a choice, these days. owned and operated. Our story and the region. It’s a big part of our story. Innovation from our bakehouse team, circumstances are very unique and continual reviewing and improving In terms of our plans to grow the retail always peaks interest. business — quite possibly, another how we train our front of house team The fact that as a family, we have all store could be on the cards. to provide an exceptional customer found our strengths and niche within experience, and, evolution of our Our fans are screaming for a location the business, the dynamic just works. branding and marketing to hit all the north of the river — logistically, it’s Well — we’ve made it work! right touchpoints. tricky for us with the bakehouse in And of course, it goes At the core, we are in relentless Pinjarra — but we’re definitely open. pursuit of how we can continue to Expanding our wholesale model is without saying — we couldn’t ‘up the ante’. Provide more value, also a major priority. We just took on achieve any of it without the entertainment and continue to build our first wholesale partner from South support and dedication of our a genuine emotional connection Australia — which is really cool! So amazing team and throngs of and long-term loyalty with our pie hopefully more interstate expansion is loving community. on the cards for 2021. loyal customers. Q What about strategic We’d also love the opportunity Also, being crowned “Best Meat Pie in partnerships and alliances, to export our amazing pies both Australia” was pretty bloody awesome! both locally, nationally and nationally and internationally. That Growing up, everyone has a favourite internationally? would be a real pipe dream! childhood bakery memory. We hope We now have partners over east, as Q What benefits and opportunities in some small way we’ve seamlessly far north as Kununurra and south in do the bakery’s future plans mean embed ourselves into the West Hopetoun. for the greater Peel region? Australian way of life, helping families re-visit nostalgic memories, and Q Has this created bigger Without a doubt, more employment create new ones. opportunities for the business opportunities. e.g. openings into interstate or overseas markets? Currently, our team has almost tipped MORE INFORMATION 100! Which is a major milestone. www.pinjarrabakery.com Yes, the funding from the RED grant has allowed us to increase our To think where we started 23 years production capacity capabilities, ago with just a handful of employees which in turn gave us the confidence — one of the things we are most

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The future of Dwellingup

DWELLINGUP Its natural environment and connection with nature are what makes it special.

WORDS | Peel Development Commission “Future growth in Dwellingup will Together these industries have been IMAGES | Visit Mandurah & Russell Ord integral to shaping what Dwellingup Photography emanate from making the most of our best assets — enhancing is today, and will continue to be, in the future. our natural resources, sharing our As Dwellingup cultural heritage, supporting our The community welcomes managed and organic growth but is wary of experiences a period of people and maintaining our small rapid expansion as a tourist town, change and growth in town charm.” so recognition and success must mining, construction, Dwellingup is surrounded by forest. Its not undermine its very purpose for natural environment and connection being. Accommodating the varied agriculture, forestry, with nature are what makes and diverse land uses and recreation and tourism, it special. The community striking the right balance is Dwellingup Futures strongly values its important. small-town charm and A Stakeholder Working provides a road map lifestyle and see the The community strongly values its Group with key to successfully plan natural environment industry, government and their town as the small-town charm for and manage and lifestyle. and community community’s greatest representatives has been this growth for a assets and ultimately, the established to identify sustainable future. primary attraction. how different industries, Dwellingup Futures is a plan particularly mining, recreation, The Dwellingup Futures Project for achieving self-sufficiency for the forestry and tourism can sustainably has been established by the Shire town and will help it to thrive into co-exist into the future. A Technical of Murray, with the support of the the future by supporting varied job Advisory Committee has also been Peel Development Commission, to opportunities, good housing and a formed to provide specialist expertise establish the vision and strategic better range of day-to-day services. and knowledge into a Dwellingup intent for the future of Dwellingup. Futures Growth Management Dwellingup was historically born Road Map. on the back of forestry and mining.

40 PEEL | Spring/Summer 2020 PROGRESSIVE | PROSPEROUS | DYNAMIC

Helping older adults connect with community WORDS | WayFairer Project IMAGE | Visit Mandurah and Russell Ord Photography

Older adults have so many skills, talents and experiences that are a fantastic resource and which can be utilised within our communities.

The WayFairer Project is changing After the Community Analysis and Dwellingup the volunteer landscape by making Knowledge Mapping has been Consultants FARlane Consulting connections that are based on skills, completed, community organisations and RobertsDay, along with the interests and experience. It helps and WayFairers will be matched to Stakeholder Working Group and adults aged 50+ years and community ensure that a reciprocal and mutually Technical Advisory Committee networks to connect with each other beneficial relationship can be formed. will assess the most sustainable and foster a reciprocal relationship. The amount of time gifted will depend direction for industry and on the WayFairer’s availability and the economic development for Through the WayFairer Project, adults requirements of community groups Dwellingup. This direction will be aged 50+ years will be matched with with the goal of mutually beneficial outlined in the Road Map, due for community clubs and organisations matching of individuals and the needs completion early in 2021. to gift their time, skills, talents and interests to help address the of community groups. The amount Road Map will cover the following challenges faced by clubs and help of time and specific hours will be key outcomes; them thrive. determined by the WayFairer and a ∙ An agreed vision and strategic suitable community group. intent for the future of How it works The WayFairer Project is currently Dwellingup. Community groups, clubs, not-for profit running in two WA communities: the ∙ Social, economic and organisations and schools take part City of Kalamunda and the City of environmental modelling in a Community Analysis, where the Mandurah. The Mandurah WayFairer indicators relevant to the future organisations are be able to self-reflect Project is a five-year project with the growth of Dwellingup. and determine what areas they might City of Mandurah. ∙ Industry Growth Scenarios need support in. MORE INFORMATION that identify new and existing On the other end, Wayfairers will take If you are a community organisation, opportunities for industry part in a process called knowledge and jobs. club, group, not-for-profit, or community mapping. Knowledge mapping helps member within the City of Mandurah, or, if ∙ Provision of a supporting people to understand the skills they’ve you are a Mandurah community member evidence base for each industry acquired, the experiences they’ve and are aged 50 years or older, interested growth scenario. gathered, and identify their own in taking part in the WayFairer Project as a WayFairer and become more connected interests. The WayFairer Project then The project is reaching the with your community, find out more by mid-way point, with much takes all of these into consideration heading to; https://inclusionsolutions.org. of the foundational work when matching them with a au/what-we-do/wayfairer-project/the- completed including stakeholder community organisation. mandurah-wayfairer-project/ consultations to identify and understand key issues and themes, land use review, economic and land-use trend analysis and the establishment of a future desired state and vision statement and defining the strategic challenges that may impact the realisation of the future state.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Shire of Murray on (08) 9531 7777 or visit https://yoursay. murray.wa.gov.au

Spring/Summer 2020 | PEEL 41 Peel Development Commission

CAPABLE PEOPLE Baptistcare ageing in place hub planned for Byford

WORDS & IMAGES | Baptistcare

The purchase of a 6.7 hectare site in Byford will allow Baptistcare to create an exciting ageing in place hub in the heart of Australia’s fastest growing population centre — the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale.

The proposed $78m development will focus on delivering continuous, tailored services and support to local seniors as they travel the ageing journey, enabling them to remain connected to the unique, semi-rural Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale President Cr Michelle Rich and Baptistcare CEO community they love. Russell Bricknell.

Independent retirement living and the opportunity to contribute to growing population of Byford and apartments and units, contemporary Byford’s urban realm through clever the surrounds, we hold a free weekly residential aged care and an integration that make this project a food market, run a school mentoring administration centre for Baptistcare’s game-changer.” program and help out with a variety of local Home Care services will be built local events,” he said. around shared hospitality, respite, and President Michelle Rich said the Shire health and wellness facilities. of Serpentine Jarrahdale welcomed “We are excited to team up the announcement of Baptistcare’s Communal spaces and services will commitment to provide state-of-the- with Baptistcare and share be open to the public and the Byford art aged care and independent living the same ethos for caring Baptist Church will build a new church facilities in Byford. and administration buildings on a one for others.” hectare portion of the land. “One of our Ageing Well Strategy Russell Bricknell said Baptistcare has objectives is to advocate for the commenced the creation of a design Chief Executive Officer, Russell provision of more accessible and vision for the new development and Bricknell, said the innovative project affordable housing options that will engage with key stakeholders on supports Baptistcare’s expansion in enable ageing-in-place,” she said. how to deliver optimum aged care the South Metropolitan Region and and community outcomes for Byford. will assist the Shire of Serpentine “The Shire looks forward to working Jarrahdale to meet its future with Baptistcare moving forward “There are a number of planning and population demands. through the planning process.” approval stages to work through, but we hope to have a final proposal to “It’s exciting to be able to plan and Baptistcare Byford Church Senior submit to Council in the first half of develop a best-practice approach to Pastor, Shayne Goldfinch, said the 2021,” he said. aged care support services that truly popularity of the Sunday Service and reflect local needs and aspirations,” an increasing number of community MORE INFORMATION he said. activities had seen the church outgrow its current location. Please email [email protected] “While the bricks and mortar aspects of this development are important, it’s “In addition to requiring a spiritual the collaboration with the community home that can cater for the rapidly

42 PEEL | Spring/Summer 2020 PROGRESSIVE | PROSPEROUS | DYNAMIC

Q&A: Staff profiles

WORDS | Nicole Pegg and Ben Robbins in the afternoon and have time to Q What is your favourite Peel IMAGES | Peel Development Commission potter about in my garden, to take discovery? a walk with our dogs, or to sit and The thrombolites at Lake Clifton! That relax in nature while my husband is Every workplace has a team may sound a bit weird as many people busy fishing in a nearby river. It’s the would think they’re just old rocks, but of staff working tirelessly to ultimate in work-life balance! I’m fascinated by the Earth’s history bring projects, strategies and and proud that we live in a healthy outcomes to life. In this issue, Q How did you decide on a career in Regional development? ecosystem where these amazing the Commission welcomes two microbial communities continue to new team members. I have a background in teaching thrive on our doorstep. Thrombolites and have always felt that the also hold an important place in the most valuable part of education cultural history of the local Noongar Introducing Nicole Pegg is the positive influence a teacher people and I’m grateful we have the Senior Administration Officer can have on the people and the opportunity to hear the traditional environment around them. I felt stories about these amazing that my move from teaching into little critters. the resources sector didn’t offer up many opportunities for me to make a positive difference in my community, Introducing Ben Robins so the opportunity to work in regional Regional Development Officer development means I can be part of a team who positively contributes to this amazing region in which I live.

Q Tell us a bit about your role at Q Where do you see yourself in 10 the Peel Development Commission: years’ time? My role at the Commission is Senior I’m passionate about the Peel region Administration Officer. It’s a diverse so I hope to still be working with the role with many different facets Commission to help the region to including finance administration, grow and diversify, while keeping the HR coordination, asset and contract unique beauty that is the Peel. Q What brought you to the Peel management, office coordination and Q How do you like to spend your region for work? generally anything else that comes spare time? I joined the Peel Development across my desk! I work across a variety Most of my spare time is spent Commission as a Regional of functions and every day is different Development Officer in early March which is what I love about it — there’s outdoors, exploring with my family. Most weekends you’ll find us out in 2020 to undertake a project analysing always a surprise or new challenge the mining and mining services sector waiting around the corner! 4WDs in the hills or heading down the beach to go fishing. Not that I fish, I of the Peel, and methods to further Q What brought you to the Peel generally ‘observe’ from a shady spot establish economic development and region for work? on the beach! industry diversification surrounding Even though I’ve lived in Mandurah this industry base. Since COVID-19 We also love taking our boat for a for over 10 years, I spent that time occurred relatively early within the trip up the Murray River for lunch or travelling to remote areas for work establishment of this project, I have exploring various markets across the or working in the Perth CBD. My been responsible for coordinating region. In saying that, I’m also a bit dream was to find a multi-faceted, impact analysis on behalf of the partial to spending a lazy afternoon challenging support role closer to Peel Development Commission and home, where I could contribute to relaxing with a good book! undertaking the updating of datasets and research for the Peel Region. my community and be more present Q In your opinion, what makes the at home. My role at the Commission Peel region so unique? Q What do you enjoy most about ticks all those boxes so I feel like I’m working in the Peel region? living my dream! We have such diversity in our region. You can spend your time in The Peel Region is a region of growth Q What do you enjoy most about a vibrant city space, on a pristine and diversification. Its natural and working in the Peel region? beach, exploring the hills and bush, artificial assets (land, environment, soft Living 10 minutes from work! Having or making a trip to a country pub for & hard infrastructure) and its people offer strong potential for industry spent years working away from the lunch, all within a short drive. Who development and diversification. region, I love being able to head home could ask for anything more!

Spring/Summer 2020 | PEEL 43 Peel Development Commission GETTING TO KNOW THE PDC Q&A: Board Q How did you decide on a career in Regional development? I grew up with a regional perspective WORDS | David Doepel Q What do you see for the overall from an agricultural background future of the Peel region? in the Wheatbelt on a farm in Kulin Play to the natural strengths and those and studied Urban and Regional are the glorious environment and Planning at Curtin University. I have the incredibly productive agriculture always enjoyed seeking out the detail sector. Tourism opportunities are in ideas, concepts and in the detail abundant for the region because of the and mechanisms for how things environment but then I think it is also work. Regional development is an about agriculture and food which ties area which undergoes constant in with tourism and the opportunity change and hence the constant to create a truly world class food requirement to understand what, offering. That offering can find its and how certain levers (economic, way throughout retail that are seen social, environmental & governance) in every pub and café and restaurant cause and effect changes. I also David Doepel in the region, but also what we can have a strong interest in geography, export and develop and the kind of planning, politics and economics, and Q Most memorable board or R&D that we’re going to be doing in regional development fits my interest corporate moment the WA Food & Innovation Precinct. field strongly. I did a corporate fundraising last year Together these can be huge drivers of Q Where do you see yourself in 10 for a film company that I lead. We employment for the region and lead years’ time? spent some time updating our risk to really satisfying and meaningful register for the raise. Fast forward to I would like to continue working careers. I see the future for the region February this year, nowhere anywhere in regional development and is how to maximise the value of its in our registers or documentation did strategic development spaces, and natural assets. it say a global pandemic would strike undertaking the opportunity to and shut down cinemas all over the Q What are some of your favourite further my studies. I’m looking in world. Not sure how we could have places/people/experiences in the the future to pursue a Masters in planned for that given our primary Peel region? Geospatial Science, Masters in Data business is selling tickets to films in I’m working on rehabbing an orchard Science and potentially a PhD in cinemas in multiple countries. The in Byford at the moment so I’m Urban & Regional Planning. The challenges this year around COVID regularly in Jarrahdale and go to university fee change for subjects have been extraordinary and nothing recently announced has certainly had Dwellingup and Pinjarra frequently. like I have ever faced in my life. an impact on my study decision and There are some great little cafés around such as Edenvale in Pinjarra is hence something I am watching Q What important lessons from — which Fairbridge are now running very closely. the corporate sector still shape your leadership approach today? so there is a great opportunity for Q In your opinion, what makes the students to work in the café there. Peel region so unique? One of the lessons from going Millbrook Winery in Jarrahdale is also through this pandemic, is for most of The Peel Region encompasses a very an amazing place to visit and dine in us, a risk register can sometimes just diverse economic, environmental, their restaurant there. In my demand be a box ticking exercise, rather than and social base between the sea farm business which is part of the pivot something that actually does drive to scarp (Mandurah & Waroona on from Demand Film, we’re working with your thinking. However, I would not our West and Boddington in our a whole bunch of farmers mainly in the have ever imagined that a business East). Its economic infrastructure Serpentine-Jarrahdale area. could go from earning millions of and advantages in natural assets, its dollars of revenue a year to then Q What do you do in your spare people and the built form of the Peel zero. That is the unexpected. What time? provides a strong base for further has surprised me though, is both development. I don’t have any spare time! But I do the resilience of the people I work like growing stuff. I like gardening Q What is your favourite Peel with and the industry as a whole. and at home I have both a Native and discovery? The important lesson I have learnt is European styled garden which I enjoy Cycling Network & Peel Trails. Cycling always anticipating about the future working in and maintaining (and infrastructure in the Peel Region and what are the opportunities; what apparently the research says it will is continuing to develop, however are going to be the challenges and help me live longer). I dream of fishing the extent of the current cycling how do you be both conservative to and maybe in 2021 will have time but network and the landscapes the Peel ensure you can weather the storms that’s not something I think I can talk traverses provides a strong fitness/ and simultaneously progressive to my wife Barbara into joining me for. tourism product. seize opportunities.

44 PEEL | Spring/Summer 2020 PROGRESSIVE | PROSPEROUS | DYNAMIC

Peel Business Park in Nambeelup powering ahead

WORDS & IMAGES | DevelopmentWA

Peel Business Park in Nambeelup recently reached a major milestone with the completion of the first 10 lots at this innovative industrial development.

Stage 1 construction included bulk earthworks, civil works and trunk power infrastructure. Located 75km south of Perth in the Shire of Murray at the gateway to the Peel agricultural region, Peel Business Park in Nambeelup is a central part of the State Government’s Transform Peel initiative, championed by Peel Development Commission. The $49 million Transform Peel initiative, including $45 million to deliver essential trunk infrastructure for Peel Business Park, aims to establish new economic growth drivers in the Peel Region to create more than 33,000 jobs across a diverse range of industries and inject up to $1 billion a year into the WA economy by 2050. DevelopmentWA’s 120ha development sits within a Wormall Civil are also completing solar generation, battery storage and strategically-located 1,000ha industrial significant upgrades to Lakes Road a grid connection back-up. area, and is attractive to agri-food and and Gull Road. agri-processing businesses seeking to Developed in partnership with Peel add value to the Region’s world class DevelopmentWA’s Industrial Renewable Energy (formerly Enwave food and agriculture sector. Land’s Authority is developing Australia), the microgrid network will deliver a safe, reliable, renewable and Of the ten stage 1 lots, eight are the first stage of the Park scalable energy solution at a lower already sold to a range of local as an Innovation through price for businesses within the Park. businesses including the Shire of Demonstration project. Murray’s Western Australia Food DevelopmentWA’s Stage 1 of Peel Innovation Precinct, and the The estate includes sustainable Business Park is expected to generate Department of Fire and Emergency approaches to material re-use in the 300 jobs during construction and on Services’ Bushfire Centre for landscaping works and responsible completion, occupants in Stage 1 are Excellence. environmental management. expected to deliver more than 160 ongoing jobs for the region. With the lots now completed, DevelopmentWA’s commitment contracts were issued to Total Eden to innovation and sustainability is MORE INFORMATION for landscaping and to Peel-based highlighted by the Park’s renewable contractor Wormall Civil for offsite energy industrial microgrids, one of For further information please visit: www.developmentwa.com.au/peel water and sewer extensions. the first in Australia to combine onsite

Spring/Summer 2020 | PEEL 45 BE PART OF THE WA RECOVERY

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PDC mag ad 2 2.indd 1 2/11/20 4:15 pm