Monday, 23 April 2018

Gunnedah Shire Council has resolved to provide financial and in-kind support to the Gunnedah Show Society for the upcoming Energy Innovation and Mining Expo (eIMEx).

Gunnedah Show Society approached Council seeking support for the event at the March Ordinary Council Meeting.

Council moved at last Wednesday’s Ordinary Council Meeting to provide up to $15,000 of in-kind support, as well as a $20,000 financial contribution to the Expo.

Gunnedah Shire Council Mayor Jamie Chaffey said eIMEx has the potential to become a large scale, recurring event, with flow on effects for the broader community.

“There are huge benefits for the community should this event become well-established and successful over a number of years,” Cr Chaffey said.

“It is important to recognise the economic benefits that will flow on from the hosting of such an event. Early estimations outline a significant economic impact for our region as we expect to see both exhibitors and visitors from a wide area including Victoria, NSW and Queensland, as well as internationally.”

Cr Chaffey said Gunnedah is well-positioned to hold such a unique event that will showcase innovation in both sectors.

“Coal mining has a long history of over 140 years in the Gunnedah basin and is the burgeoning strength in Australia, with a forecasted long enduring future. Recent approvals and early works for solar projects in our Shire indicate our region is well suited for renewable energy developments,” Cr Chaffey said.

“The nearest similar event to this scale is in Mackay, Queensland, which is held in July every second year. There has previously been an expo held in Muswellbrook, but not in recent years.

“Congratulations to the Gunnedah Show Society for their efforts in developing this event, the committee has a proven track record of getting things done.”

The Energy Innovation and Mining Expo will be held at the Gunnedah Showground in early November 2018.

Photo Caption: Gunnedah Shire Council shows support to Energy Innovation and Mining Expo at Council’s April Ordinary Meeting.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.