Business Events
The Western Downs has a strong and diverse economy. Recognised as a leader in agribusiness, energy and manufacturing, and future proofing for a changing climate. Stakeholders are aware of the need for development activity to help drive and support the Council's long term vision.
As part of our strategy to enable business development, we work together with our strategic partners to achieve economic growth, workforce capability and small business success.
Our events calendar is growing, with a range of business events organised in the Western Downs by Council and other strategic partners.
Annual Business Events, delivered by Council and other strategic partners:
Protein Jobs Fair
The Protein Jobs Fair is delivered in partnership with AgForce and TSBE and connects jobseekers and school students with potential employers and promote careers pathways and opportunities in the Intensive Agricultural and Agricultural Service Industries.
Accelerate Manufacturing: Western Downs Manufacturing Conference
This Accelerate Manufacturing Conference brings together regional businesses, industry experts, and other stakeholders to uncover strategies and opportunities for further growth. An exciting program features industry experts.
Find out more about the 2023 conference, held on 17th May.
Protein Conference
The Protein Conference brings together all of the four industries of beef, pork, poultry and dairy with the view to share best practice, advocate for common policy change and allow collaboration across the sectors. This conference is a must-attend event for all industry participants.
Procurement Roadshow
Council is committed to developing competitive, diverse, innovative and vibrant local markets. These markets benefit both Council and the wider economy of the Western Downs region. Local businesses are each year invited to attend information sessions to hear about the type of work Council has coming up. This is a great opportunity for our communities to find out what procurement looks like at Council, how to get involved and what options will benefit your business best.
Find out more about procurement opportunities with Council
YES Summit
The Youth Entrepreneurship Summit (YES) aims to inspire the youth of the Western Downs to dream big, embrace their potential and seize opportunities in business and their future careers. This is a interactive summit designed to inspire and empower a generation of brave, creative and entrepreneurial young leaders in a high energy event. YES is run by young people, for young people.
Energy Summit
The summit features leaders from the Surat Basin energy industry to discuss the challenges and opportunities involved in guaranteeing reliable and affordable energy supply while transitioning to low carbon. The role of the Surat Basin, and the Western Downs as 'Energy Capital in Queensland' are central to the conversation.
Workforce Attraction Workshop
In partnership with Business Navigator Western Downs, Council delivered a free virtual series of workshops for small and medium local businesses to build knowledge, skills and best-practice for recruitment, workforce attraction and retention in business. Sessions presented data, findings, 'tips and tricks' and resources to help local business attract workers to apply for advertised roles.
Find out more about the 2023 Workshop, held 19-21 June.
Stay up to date with the latest in business and economic development news and events by subscribing to Council's Business in the Western Downs eNewsletter.