Over the years, the Western Downs region has faced devastating bushfires and flooding. In the wake of the Tara bushfires in 2023, the Western Downs Regional Council partnered with government agencies and charities to provide immediate support to impacted communities and embarked on a resilience-building program including a successful return to tourism in the affected areas and drive visitor economy campaign.
Highlights
- Comprehensive support: Assistance was provided through targeted outreach to impacted businesses, promoting the Southern Queensland Bushfire Recovery Grant for primary producers.
- Tourism recovery campaign: Investment in a marketing campaign, including the Sunset Way initiative, revitalised tourism in the area.
- Long-term resilience: Council is implementing a three-year Building Western Downs Disaster Resilience Program to enhance community preparedness for future disasters.
Council is focused on strengthening the resilience of the Western Downs community to foster a sustainable future for local businesses and the region.