Changing regional fortunes

It wasn’t that long ago that people were lamenting the demise of country towns but population increases, infrastructure development and a strong resource sector have elevated the fortunes of many regional centres.

Despite a worsening drought affecting agricultural productivity, Dalby’s economic forecast looks bright as these key factors combine to promote continued business growth.

Commerce Queensland’s most recent Pulse Survey Report indicates that the South West region experienced the state’s highest growth in general business conditions over the December quarter with the index picking up 11.93 points to finish at 64.52 points.

Abundant natural gas and thermal coal reserves are underpinning the region’s economic strength and driving large-scale infrastructure developments including the $1.2 billion Kogan Creek Power Station, two gas-fired power stations and multiple coal seam gas projects.

This year Ergon Energy is planning a $9 million refurbishment of the central Dalby substation, an ethanol plant is underway, and Liquegas recently announced its decision to build a liquified natural gas plant at Daandine.

Dalby is located within the Surat Energy Resources Province which is expected to generate 16,000 full-time job equivalents in the production of both coal and gas by 2030. Already Dalby has seen its population increase by around 20 percent from 9,682 residents in 2001 to an estimated 11,500 in 2007.

Town planning applications for new homes and additions have risen 145 percent in the last two financial years and an increasing number of would-be homeowners are turning to regional areas for affordable housing solutions.

Although the median house price rose from $165,000 in March 2006 to $222,000 in February 2007 prices remain below the norm of major urban centres while home loan and rent affordability come in under the Queensland average.

Adding to the town’s appeal is a convenient country lifestyle, ready supply of town water and improved town facilities including a major new shopping complex, expanding health facilities and a $4 million events centre.

Dalby is also close to major centres and has the potential for faster access if major transport infrastructure proposals become a reality.

Provided adequate rainfall resumes in the southeast, improved agricultural output will add further strength to the region’s burgeoning economic fortunes.